What Is Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7?
Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 is a man-made, nonionic surfactant created by linking propylene oxide and ethylene oxide units to a blend of synthetic secondary C12-C14 alcohols. The finished molecule holds an average of five propylene oxide units and seven ethylene oxide units, giving it both water-loving and oil-loving zones. This balanced structure is what lets it break up oils yet stay mild on skin.
Nonionic surfactants like this one first appeared in the 1950s as formulators searched for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. Over time chemists fine-tuned the chain lengths and the number of propylene and ethylene oxide blocks, landing on combinations that clean well but rinse easily. Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 became popular because its medium chain length delivers effective cleansing without excessive foam or residue.
Production starts with petroleum-derived alcohols that are converted to secondary alcohols. These alcohols undergo sequential propoxylation and ethoxylation in the presence of a catalyst. The result is a clear to pale yellow liquid that blends smoothly into water and many oils, making it a versatile choice for cosmetic labs.
You will most often spot Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 in face cleansers, micellar waters, exfoliating scrubs, shower gels, shampoo, makeup removers and sometimes in lightweight lotions where it helps keep oil and water portions mixed.
Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient adds two key talents to a formula, improving both performance and texture:
- Cleansing: Its surfactant nature lowers the surface tension between water and oils, allowing dirt, makeup and excess sebum to lift away from skin or hair then rinse off cleanly without a tight afterfeel.
- Emulsifying: The molecule’s dual affinity bridges oil and water phases so creams, lotions and cleansers stay stable and uniform during shelf life and use. That means no separating layers and a smoother application experience for the user.
Who Can Use Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7
Because it is a mild nonionic surfactant, Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 suits most skin types including normal, oily, combination and even sensitive skin. Those with very dry or compromised skin might find high concentrations slightly drying since any surfactant can remove some lipids, so richer follow-up moisturizers are advised in that case.
The ingredient is entirely synthetic and contains no animal-derived materials, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans. It is also cruelty-free when sourced from suppliers that do not test on animals.
No specific warnings exist for pregnancy or breastfeeding; the molecule stays mainly on the surface and is considered low risk. Still, this is not medical advice, and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run all skincare products by their physician to be safe.
Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known interactions with common sunscreen filters or tanning treatments.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, yet most people will not experience them when the ingredient is used at appropriate levels in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation: A small number of users may notice transient redness or stinging, especially if the product is left on the skin too long or applied to broken skin
- Dryness or flaking: Over-cleansing can strip natural oils leading to a tight or flaky feel, mainly in those with already dry complexions
- Eye irritation: Cleansers that migrate into the eyes can cause watering and discomfort until rinsed away
- Allergic contact dermatitis: Extremely rare cases of true allergy have been reported for similar nonionic surfactants resulting in itching or rash
If any irritation, rash or discomfort develops stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5
Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 is a water-soluble nonionic surfactant that rinses off cleanly and leaves no oily residue that could clog pores. It does not linger on skin or form films that trap sebum or dead cells, which is why formulators consider it non-comedogenic.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
No studies suggest it aggravates fungal acne and it is often paired with clarifying ingredients, making it a low-risk choice in blemish-fighting cleansers.
Summary
Ppg-5 C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 works primarily as a cleansing and emulsifying agent. Its balanced chain of five propylene oxide units and seven ethylene oxide units lets the molecule surround oils, dirt and makeup then lift them into water so they wash away. The same dual affinity keeps oil and water phases blended, preventing separation and giving products a smooth, uniform texture.
While not a household name, it is a quiet staple in many modern face washes, micellar waters and lightweight lotions because it delivers reliable performance without harshness or heavy foam.
Overall safety data label it low risk for irritation, sensitization and pore clogging. As with any new skincare product though, applying a small test patch first is a smart precaution to confirm personal compatibility.