Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7?

Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 is a lab made liquid derived from a mix of synthetic secondary alcohols that have 12 to 14 carbon atoms. Chemists link these alcohols to chains of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide, giving the final molecule an average of five propylene oxide units and seven ethylene oxide units. This balanced mix of water-loving and oil-loving parts lets the ingredient sit at the border between oil and water, which is why it is so handy in skin care.

The concept behind ingredients like this dates back to the 1940s, when scientists learned how to join propylene oxide and ethylene oxide to fatty alcohols to create reliable surfactants. Over time formulators fine-tuned the chain lengths to get better feel and performance, leading to the version we use today. Because the raw materials are produced in closed reactors, the process is controlled, scalable and does not rely on animal sources.

In manufacturing, producers start with purified C12-14 secondary alcohols, then add measured amounts of propylene oxide under heat and pressure. Once five units are attached on average, ethylene oxide is introduced until the chain grows by about seven units. The mixture is neutralized, filtered and quality-checked before shipment.

You will spot Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 in lightweight lotions, moisturizers, rinse-off masks, creamy cleansers, sunscreens, hair conditioners and many anti-aging treatments where silky texture and long-term stability are key.

Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient earns its keep by supporting the structure and feel of many formulas.

  • Emulsion stabilising: Helps keep oil and water layers from separating over time so the product stays smooth, uniform and effective throughout its shelf life
  • Emulsifying: Allows oils to blend with water during manufacturing, creating creams and lotions that spread easily and absorb well without leaving a greasy film

Who Can Use Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7

Because this ingredient is lightweight and non greasy it suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and even dry skin that prefers a fluid feel. People with very sensitive or highly reactive skin could still notice mild irritation if the formula contains a high percentage of the ingredient but that is uncommon.

Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 is made entirely from synthetic raw materials and involves no animal derived substances so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.

No studies suggest any risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically in cosmetics. Absorption through intact skin is minimal. This is not medical advice so anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare routine past a qualified doctor just to be safe.

The molecule does not increase photosensitivity and can be worn day or night without affecting how your skin handles sunlight.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 can vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions yet they remain unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels.

  • Temporary redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
  • Mild contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to polyether compounds
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
  • Dry or tight feeling when used in very high amounts that disturb the skin’s barrier
  • Enhanced penetration of other active ingredients which could indirectly trigger irritation

If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5. Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 is highly water soluble and leaves little oily residue on the skin, so it rarely lingers in pores or mixes with sebum in a way that could form blockages. Its main role is to sit at the oil-water interface then rinse or rub away cleanly, which is why formulators lean on it for lightweight products. For this reason it is generally suitable for people prone to acne or frequent breakouts. Because the molecule can improve penetration of other ingredients, any pore-clogging risk usually comes from those companion ingredients, not from Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 itself.

Summary

Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7 is chiefly an emulsifier and emulsion stabilizer. Its mix of five propylene oxide units and seven ethylene oxide units gives it a balanced split between oil-loving and water-loving segments, letting it pull the two phases together and keep them blended over time. This action produces creams and lotions that feel silky, spread easily and stay uniform on the shelf.

You will see it in many mainstream moisturizers, sunscreens, cleansers and hair conditioners, though it is not a headline act like hyaluronic acid or retinol. Brands pick it when they need a reliable workhorse that does its job quietly without altering texture or scent.

Overall safety data are strong. The ingredient is non irritating for most users, vegan friendly and not linked to hormonal or systemic effects. As with any new cosmetic, it is wise to perform a quick patch test when trying a product that contains Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Alketh-7, just to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.

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