What Is Ppg-3 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7?
Ppg-3 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 is a synthetic ingredient created by reacting medium chain secondary fatty alcohols derived from coconut or palm sources with both propylene oxide and ethylene oxide. The result is a clear to slightly hazy liquid surfactant that balances water loving and oil loving portions within one molecule.
It first appeared in personal care labs in the late 1990s when formulators looked for milder alternatives to older sulfated surfactants. By tweaking the ratio of propoxylation to ethoxylation chemists achieved a cleanser that produced rich foam yet felt gentle on skin and hair. Its ability to mix oils into water also caught the attention of skincare brands that needed lighter emulsifiers for fluid lotions.
Production begins with purified C12-C14 secondary alcohols. They are run through a controlled reaction vessel where three units of propylene oxide are added, followed by seven units of ethylene oxide. After neutralization and purification the finished ingredient is shipped as a concentrated liquid or paste.
You will most often spot Ppg-3 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 on the labels of face and body cleansers, micellar waters, exfoliating scrubs, shampoos, shower gels, light lotions and sprayable sunscreens. It is rarely the star of the show but it quietly helps many formulas feel silky and rinse clean.
Ppg-3 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multi purpose surfactant supports both texture and cleansing goals in modern formulas.
- Cleansing: Its surfactant nature loosens dirt, excess oil and makeup so they can be rinsed away without leaving a tight feel on skin or hair
- Emulsifying: Helps keep oils, fragrances and active ingredients evenly dispersed in water based products which prevents separation and improves shelf life
Who Can Use Ppg-3 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7
Because this ingredient is classed as a mild surfactant it suits most skin and hair types, including normal, oily and combination. Dry or very sensitive skin can also tolerate it in low to moderate amounts because it cleans without a harsh stripping feel, although formulas that pair it with stronger detergents could be less comfortable for these groups.
Ppg-3 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 is made from plant sourced fatty alcohols then reacted with synthetic propylene oxide and ethylene oxide, so it contains no animal material. That makes it acceptable for vegans and vegetarians provided the finished product has not been tested on animals according to their personal standards.
Current safety data show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding users when the ingredient is used in rinse off or leave on cosmetics at typical levels. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review all skincare choices with a qualified healthcare provider.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so no extra sun precautions are required beyond everyday SPF habits.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Ppg-3 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects yet most people will not notice any issues when the ingredient is used correctly in a well formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching, most often linked to high concentrations or pre existing sensitivity
- Transient dryness or tight feeling if the formula does not include enough moisturizers to balance cleansing action
- Eye stinging or watering when a product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as patches of rash or swelling
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Ppg-3 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 is a water soluble surfactant that rinses off easily rather than forming a film that could clog pores. Its molecular size is small enough to break up oils yet it does not remain on the skin in significant amounts after rinsing. Occasional formulas that leave it on the skin can still sit light thanks to its balanced hydrophilic nature. For these reasons the ingredient earns a low comedogenic score of 1.
Acne-prone users generally have no problem with this ingredient although the overall formula and how thoroughly it is rinsed will matter more than the surfactant itself.
Worth noting: if a product combines this surfactant with heavy occlusive oils or waxes the final pore-clogging potential could rise, but that would be due to the other ingredients not Ppg-3 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7.
Summary
Ppg-3 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 works primarily as a cleanser and emulsifier. Its mixed propylene oxide and ethylene oxide chains give it both water loving and oil loving parts so it can lift grime then suspend it in water for easy rinse off while also keeping oil based ingredients evenly dispersed in a formula. This dual action lets brands create gentle foaming washes, micellar waters and lightweight lotions that feel silky instead of greasy.
The ingredient is moderately popular in modern personal care. It is not as common as household names like sodium laureth sulfate yet shows up steadily in products that aim for a softer cleansing feel or need a supporting emulsifier without adding extra thickness.
Current safety reviews consider it low risk at typical use levels. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that includes Ppg-3 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 before applying it more broadly.