What Is Di-C12-15 Alketh-2 Phosphate?
Di-C12-15 Alketh-2 Phosphate is a man-made ingredient created by joining fatty alcohols that have 12 to 15 carbon atoms with a small piece of ethylene oxide, then linking two of these chains to a phosphate group. The result is a gentle, soap-like molecule that loves both oil and water. It first appeared in the late 1970s when formulators were looking for milder alternatives to traditional sulfates. Today, manufacturers make it in a controlled plant setting where fatty alcohols from coconut or palm kernel oil go through ethoxylation, then phosphorylation, then careful purification to remove by-products.
You will most often see Di-C12-15 Alketh-2 Phosphate in liquid cleansers such as shampoos, face washes and body washes. It also shows up in makeup removers, micellar waters, light lotions and sprayable sunscreens because it helps mix oil and water without leaving a heavy feel.
Di-C12-15 Alketh-2 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker improves both how a product works and how it feels on the skin.
- Cleansing: Its oil-loving end grabs dirt, makeup and excess sebum while its water-loving end lets all that rinse away easily, giving a thorough yet mild clean that leaves skin soft not tight.
- Emulsifying: It keeps water and oil phases blended so creams stay smooth and clear gels do not split, which means a longer shelf life and a consistent texture every time you use the product.
Who Can Use Di-C12-15 Alketh-2 Phosphate
This gentle cleanser–emulsifier works for most skin types including oily, combination, normal and sensitive skin because it removes grime without stripping away too much natural oil. Very dry or eczema-prone skin might prefer formulas where the ingredient is paired with richer moisturizers since, on its own, it does not add lipids back to the skin.
The fatty alcohols used to make Di-C12-15 Alketh-2 Phosphate are typically sourced from coconut or palm plants and the rest of the manufacturing steps are fully synthetic, so the ingredient is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data show no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics, as it is not absorbed in meaningful amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a doctor before starting or changing any skincare routine to be safe.
The molecule does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also odorless and free of proteins, so it will not affect those avoiding common fragrance or soy/wheat allergens.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
People respond differently to topical ingredients. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when Di-C12-15 Alketh-2 Phosphate is used at normal cosmetic levels and manufactured correctly.
- Mild eye irritation
- Temporary stinging on very compromised or freshly shaved skin
- Rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis marked by redness itching or small bumps
- Dryness or tightness if used in a high-foaming formula without adequate moisturizers
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Di-C12-15 Alketh-2 Phosphate is highly water soluble and designed to rinse away rather than sit on the skin which means it is very unlikely to clog pores. Its fatty portion is short enough to avoid building up inside follicles and laboratory tests show it does not leave an oily film after use. Because of these factors it earns a low rating of 1.
Most people who are prone to acne or breakouts should be able to use products containing this ingredient without problems.
As with any surfactant heavy formula over-cleansing can dry the skin which may trigger rebound oil production in some individuals so a balanced routine is still important.
Summary
Di-C12-15 Alketh-2 Phosphate acts mainly as a gentle cleanser and an emulsifier. Its two-part structure lets the oil-loving end grab dirt makeup and sebum while the water-loving end helps everything rinse away cleanly. In emulsions it bridges the gap between water and oil so creams lotions and sprays stay smooth and stable.
The ingredient is moderately popular in shampoos face washes and micellar waters but you will see it less often than big names like sodium laureth sulfate because it costs a bit more and is mainly chosen for formulas that aim for extra mildness.
Current safety reviews rate it as low risk in both rinse-off and leave-on products with only rare reports of irritation. Even so it is always smart to patch test any new product to be sure your own skin agrees with it.