What Is Dodoxynol-13?
Dodoxynol-13 is a man-made surfactant created by attaching roughly 13 units of ethylene oxide to a base molecule known as tributylphenol. This process, called ethoxylation, turns the oil-loving phenol into a balanced substance that can mix oil and water. First explored for industrial cleaning, the ingredient gained attention in the late 20th century when formulators saw how gently it lifted dirt without stripping skin. Today it is produced in controlled reactors where temperature and pressure guide the ethoxylation steps, followed by purification to remove any unreacted materials.
You will mostly spot Dodoxynol-13 in facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removers, body washes and shampoos. It also shows up in some exfoliating masks and lightweight lotions that need a little extra help keeping oil and water phases blended.
Dodoxynol-13’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare and haircare formulas Dodoxynol-13 pulls its weight in a couple of key ways
- Cleansing: As a surfactant it lowers surface tension so oils, sweat and makeup mix with water and rinse away. This gives products a gentle yet effective washing action that leaves skin feeling fresh but not tight.
- Emulsifying: It helps keep oil and water ingredients from separating. That stability means creams stay smooth, do not split over time and deliver consistent performance with every use.
Who Can Use Dodoxynol-13
Dodoxynol-13 is generally well tolerated by most skin types including normal, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it cleans without a harsh stripping effect. People with very dry or highly reactive skin should still approach any new surfactant with caution since a small subset may find frequent use slightly drying.
The ingredient is synthetic and not sourced from animals so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Brands that are certified cruelty free often use it in place of animal derived emulsifiers.
Current safety data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Dodoxynol-13 is used at the low levels common in cosmetics. Absorption through intact skin is minimal. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new products to a routine.
Dodoxynol-13 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known effect on hair color, chemically treated hair or common topical medications.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any ingredient can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential but uncommon side effects when Dodoxynol-13 is applied topically in cosmetic products. When used at typical formulation levels most users experience none of these issues.
- Mild transient stinging or redness
- Dry or tight feeling if used in a very high foaming cleanser
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to phenol based surfactants
- Eye irritation if product accidentally enters the eye
- Rare allergic reaction presenting as hives or swelling
If any discomfort or visible irritation occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 Dodoxynol-13 is a water-soluble surfactant that does not linger on skin or clog pores. Its molecular structure is designed to attract both oil and water, so it lifts sebum instead of building up inside follicles. Most formulas using it are rinse-off cleansers, further reducing any chance of pore blockage.
This low score means the ingredient is generally fine for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin types. Only in very heavy leave-on products used excessively would a higher risk be expected.
No data suggests it interferes with acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, so it can be paired with them without issue.
Summary
Dodoxynol-13 primarily acts as a cleanser and emulsifier. Its surfactant head grabs water while its tail binds to oils, allowing dirt, makeup and excess sebum to rinse away easily. In creams or lotions it positions itself at the oil-water interface, stabilising the mix so the product stays smooth and uniform.
While not as famous as household names like sodium laureth sulfate, Dodoxynol-13 enjoys steady use in gentle facial cleansers, micellar waters and a handful of lightweight lotions where formulators want mildness and reliable emulsion stability.
Existing safety reviews rate it as low risk when used at the small percentages typical in cosmetics. Side effects are uncommon and usually mild. As with any new ingredient it is wise to perform a quick patch test the first time you try a product that contains it.