What Is Disodium C12-14 Alketh-1 Sulfosuccinate?
Disodium C12-14 Alketh-1 Sulfosuccinate is a synthetic surfactant created from medium-chain fatty alcohols that come from natural fats and oils such as coconut or palm. Chemically, it is the disodium salt of an ethoxylated, partially esterified sulfosuccinic acid, with a carbon chain length of 12 to 14 and on average one ethylene oxide unit. This structure gives the molecule a water-friendly end and an oil-loving end, letting it mix oil and water with ease.
The ingredient gained popularity in the late twentieth century when formulators looked for milder alternatives to traditional sulfate surfactants. Its ability to cleanse without stripping the skin made it a welcome option for sensitive skin products. Manufacturing involves reacting the chosen fatty alcohols with maleic anhydride to form a sulfosuccinic half ester, then adding ethylene oxide, neutralizing with sodium salts, and finally purifying the mixture.
You will most often see Disodium C12-14 Alketh-1 Sulfosuccinate in face cleansers, body washes, micellar waters, bubble baths, baby shampoos, and even some exfoliating scrubs. Brands choose it when they want effective yet gentle cleansing action that also produces a soft, creamy lather.
Disodium C12-14 Alketh-1 Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
The primary role of this ingredient is cleansing. It lowers the surface tension between oil and water so dirt, excess sebum, and makeup can be lifted away and rinsed off. Because it is milder than many sulfates it helps leave the skin feeling smooth rather than tight or dry, making it especially useful in formulas intended for daily use or for people with easily irritated skin.
Who Can Use Disodium C12-14 Alketh-1 Sulfosuccinate
This gentle surfactant tends to suit most skin types including oily, dry and sensitive because it cleanses without over stripping natural oils. Those with very reactive or compromised skin barriers may still prefer a patch test first, simply because any surfactant can be an irritant in rare cases. The ingredient is synthesized from plant derived fatty alcohols and contains no animal components or by-products, so it is generally considered appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
No data suggest risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in rinse-off cosmetics. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new product just to be safe.
Disodium C12-14 Alketh-1 Sulfosuccinate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, nor is it known to interfere with common active ingredients like retinoids or vitamin C. It rinses away cleanly and leaves little residue, which means it rarely affects follow-up products in a routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical ingredients can vary. The points below outline potential side effects that a small number of users might encounter. When correctly formulated in a cosmetic product most people will experience none of these issues.
- Mild skin dryness or tightness after rinsing
- Temporary stinging if the product is left on broken skin
- Eye irritation when the cleanser accidentally enters the eyes
- Contact dermatitis in those with a specific sensitivity to sulfosuccinate surfactants
- Scalp or hair dryness with overuse in shampoos
If any of these side effects occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Disodium C12-14 Alketh-1 Sulfosuccinate is a water-soluble surfactant that rinses off thoroughly, so it is unlikely to linger on skin or block pores. Its molecular structure is larger and more hydrophilic than fatty acids or oils that tend to cause congestion, which keeps its comedogenic potential low. For that reason it is generally considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Because it is almost always used in rinse-off cleansers rather than leave-on formulas the chance of pore blockage is even lower.
As with any surfactant, using an overly strong concentration or leaving the product on for extended periods could disrupt the skin barrier and indirectly contribute to blemishes, but under normal use this risk is minimal.
Summary
Disodium C12-14 Alketh-1 Sulfosuccinate is chiefly a cleansing agent that loosens oil, dirt and makeup by lowering surface tension so impurities can be washed away without stripping skin. Its balanced structure, featuring both water-loving and oil-loving ends, lets it create a creamy lather while remaining milder than traditional sulfates.
Although it is not the trendiest ingredient on social media, formulators appreciate it for baby shampoos, sensitive skin washes and any product that needs gentle yet effective foam, so it turns up in more everyday cleansers than you might realize.
Current safety data show it is well tolerated by most skin types in rinse-off products with only rare reports of irritation. Still, when you pick up a new cleanser it never hurts to do a quick patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with it.