What Is Potassium Trideceth-7 Phosphate?
Potassium Trideceth-7 Phosphate is a specialty surfactant created by reacting trideceth-7, a synthetic mixture of thirteen-carbon fatty alcohols and ethylene oxide, with phosphoric acid then neutralizing the result with potassium hydroxide. The outcome is a potassium salt that pairs the oil-loving part of the fatty alcohol with a water-loving phosphate head, allowing it to interact with both oil and water. First developed in the late twentieth century as formulators searched for milder alternatives to traditional sulfates, it quickly found a place in personal care because it cleans efficiently while remaining gentle on skin.
Manufacturing begins with fatty alcohols derived from petrochemical feedstocks or sustainably sourced plant oils. These alcohols are ethoxylated to form trideceth-7, giving the molecule the right balance of oil- and water-solubility. Phosphorylation adds the acidic phosphate group, and a final neutralization step with potassium hydroxide yields the finished ingredient. This controlled, multi-step process ensures consistent quality and purity for cosmetic use.
You will most often spot Potassium Trideceth-7 Phosphate in face and body cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removers, shampoos, bubble baths and mild baby washes. Its ability to lift away dirt and oils without stripping skin makes it attractive for formulas marketed as gentle or sulfate-free.
Potassium Trideceth-7 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators choose this ingredient for one main reason, and consumers benefit from its mild yet effective performance.
Cleansing: As a surfactant it lowers the surface tension between water and oils, allowing dirt, makeup and excess sebum to be rinsed away easily. It creates a soft, stable lather that feels pleasant on skin and hair, helping products cleanse thoroughly without leaving a tight or dry sensation.
Who Can Use Potassium Trideceth-7 Phosphate
This surfactant is generally suitable for all skin types, including oily, normal, combination, sensitive and mature skin, because it cleans effectively without harshness. Very dry or eczema-prone skin can also tolerate it in most cases, though pairing with moisturising ingredients is recommended to prevent dehydration.
The compound is created from synthetic or plant-derived feedstocks and contains no animal by-products, making it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data indicate no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically at the concentrations found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm product choices with a healthcare professional to be certain.
Potassium Trideceth-7 Phosphate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with common topical actives such as retinoids or acids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Potassium Trideceth-7 Phosphate differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation – temporary redness or tingling can occur, especially on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Contact dermatitis – rare cases of patchy rash or itching in individuals with surfactant allergies
- Eye stinging – if a cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes it may cause brief discomfort or tearing
- Allergic reaction – extremely uncommon swelling or hives in people already sensitised to similar ingredients
If any irritation or unexpected reaction develops stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Potassium Trideceth-7 Phosphate is a water-soluble cleansing agent that rinses off completely and leaves no oily residue in pores, so it has a very low likelihood of clogging follicles. Its molecular structure is too large and polar to stay behind on the skin surface, which further reduces the chance of congestion. For this reason it is generally considered safe for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. No published data suggest it aggravates comedones and it is often chosen as an alternative to heavier surfactants in acne-focused formulas.
Summary
Potassium Trideceth-7 Phosphate is a mild surfactant whose main job is cleansing. Its balanced oil-loving tail grabs dirt, sebum and makeup while the water-loving phosphate head lets everything rinse away easily, leaving skin and hair clean without an overly squeaky feel. Although not the most famous ingredient on shelves, it shows up in a growing number of sulfate-free cleansers, shampoos and micellar waters because formulators appreciate its gentleness and stability.
Current research and decades of safe use indicate a low risk of irritation or sensitisation when the ingredient is used as directed. Even so, skin can be unpredictable so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains Potassium Trideceth-7 Phosphate to be sure it suits your individual needs.