What Is Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5 Sulfosuccinate?
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5 Sulfosuccinate is a synthetic surfactant made from a blend of mid-length (C12-C14) secondary fatty alcohols. These alcohols are first reacted with about five units of ethylene oxide, giving them water-loving ends, then partially esterified with sulfosuccinic acid and finally neutralized with sodium to form a mild, water-soluble salt. The process yields a molecule that carries both oil-attracting and water-attracting parts, allowing it to break up grease and dirt while rinsing away easily.
The ingredient emerged in the late 1960s when formulators were searching for gentler alternatives to traditional sulfates. Because it is milder on skin than sodium lauryl sulfate yet still creates a rich lather, it quickly found a place in personal-care products. Today it is produced in large batches using continuous reactors that fine-tune the degree of ethoxylation and esterification, ensuring consistent quality.
You will spot Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5 Sulfosuccinate in many rinse-off items such as facial cleansers, body washes, bubble baths, sulfate-free shampoos, baby wipes, makeup removers, micellar waters, shaving creams and even some clay or sheet masks where a gentle foaming action is desired.
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5 Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators prize this multi-tasking surfactant for several reasons
- Cleansing: Lifts away oil, sweat and product buildup without stripping the skin’s natural lipid barrier, leaving it feeling clean yet comfortable
- Skin Conditioning: Deposits a light, smooth feel after rinsing which helps reduce the squeaky dry sensation that harsher surfactants can cause
- Foam Boosting: Enhances lather volume and stability so products feel luxurious and spread more easily across skin or hair
- Hydrotrope: Improves the solubility of fragrance oils and other otherwise stubborn ingredients, keeping the formula clear and uniform
Who Can Use Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5 Sulfosuccinate
This surfactant is mild enough for most skin types, including normal, oily, combination and even dry or mature skin because it cleans without harsh stripping. People with very sensitive or eczema-prone skin often tolerate it better than stronger sulfates, though they should still watch for any personal triggers.
The ingredient is fully synthetic and contains no animal by-products, so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles as long as the finished product is not tested on animals by the brand.
Current data shows no specific issues for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is considered low risk in rinse-off amounts, but this is not medical advice. Anyone expecting or nursing should have a quick word with their doctor before adding new skincare just to stay on the safe side.
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5 Sulfosuccinate does not increase sun sensitivity, so there is no extra need for sun-care beyond your usual SPF routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential reactions, though they are not common when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild stinging or redness in people with very reactive or broken skin
- Temporary dryness or tightness if used in high concentrations or with very hot water
- Eye irritation if the foam gets into the eyes
- Contact dermatitis in rare cases of individual allergy to ethoxylated surfactants
If any irritation or discomfort develops stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional if symptoms persist
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5 Sulfosuccinate is a water-soluble surfactant that is meant to be rinsed off, so it does not linger on pores or form an occlusive film that could trap oil and debris. Its molecular structure is geared toward lifting impurities rather than coating the skin, which is why it earns the lowest score on the comedogenic scale.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.
Because it helps remove excess sebum without aggressive stripping, it can even support a clearer complexion when used in balanced formulas.
Summary
Disodium C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5 Sulfosuccinate works as a cleanser, mild conditioner, foam booster and hydrotrope. Its split personality of oil-loving tails and water-loving heads lets it surround grime, lift it off the skin then wash cleanly away, while the partial esterification softens the surfactant edge so skin feels supple rather than squeaky.
You will find it in many sulfate-free body washes, facial cleansers, shampoos and baby products, though it is not as headline-grabbing as newer plant-derived surfactants. Formulators appreciate its reliability and gentle lather so it quietly powers a large number of mainstream and indie formulas alike.
Overall safety data label it as low risk when used in rinse-off products. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so doing a small patch test when trying a new product is a smart habit.