What Is Sodium C12-13 Pareth-5 Carboxylate?
Sodium C12-13 Pareth-5 Carboxylate is a synthetic surfactant made by reacting medium-chain fatty alcohols derived from coconut or palm oil with ethylene oxide, then adding a carboxylic acid group and neutralizing the mixture with sodium. The result is a water-soluble powder or liquid that carries both oil-loving and water-loving parts, giving it great surface-active properties. The ingredient first appeared in cleaning products aimed at lowering skin irritation compared with older sulfates, and its mild profile soon attracted cosmetic formulators looking for gentle yet effective cleansers. Today, manufacturers produce it in large reactors under controlled temperatures and pressures to ensure a precise average of five ethylene oxide units per molecule, which balances foaming, solubility and mildness. You will most often spot it in facial cleansers, body washes, micellar waters, shampoo, baby wash and makeup-removing wipes where a soft feel and easy rinse are important.
Sodium C12-13 Pareth-5 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In personal care formulas this ingredient plays more than one useful role.
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, sweat and makeup by surrounding oily grime so it can be rinsed off with water, giving a fresh clean feel without stripping skin or hair
- Emulsifying: Helps mix oils with water in lotions, creams or cleansing milks, keeping the texture smooth and uniform all the way through a product’s shelf life
Who Can Use Sodium C12-13 Pareth-5 Carboxylate
This gentle surfactant is generally suitable for all skin types including oily, combination, normal and sensitive skin thanks to its mild cleansing profile. Very dry or eczema-prone skin may need the added support of richer emollients alongside it to avoid any feeling of tightness, but the ingredient itself is not considered harsh. Because it is manufactured from plant-based fatty alcohols and contains no animal derivatives, it fits the requirements of vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. There are no known issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics, yet this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should have their doctor review the full product formula to be safe. Sodium C12-13 Pareth-5 Carboxylate does not increase photosensitivity so there is no special need for extra sun precautions beyond normal daily SPF use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Sodium C12-13 Pareth-5 Carboxylate can vary. The points below outline possible side effects although most people will not experience them when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, especially on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Dryness or a tight feel if used in very high concentrations without accompanying moisturizers
- Eye irritation and watering if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching rash or swelling
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Sodium C12-13 Pareth-5 Carboxylate is a fully water-soluble surfactant that does not leave an oily or waxy residue on skin, so it has no tendency to clog pores. Its molecules are designed to lift debris and rinse away cleanly, which keeps the likelihood of comedone formation extremely low even for oily or congested skin.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone individuals.
Because this ingredient is usually used in rinse-off cleansers, contact time with skin is short, further lowering any pore-clogging risk.
Summary
Sodium C12-13 Pareth-5 Carboxylate works as a mild cleanser and emulsifier. Its balanced structure of oil-loving and water-loving parts surrounds dirt and oils so they can be washed away, while also helping water and oils mix evenly in lotions or cleansing formulas.
Although not as famous as heavy hitters like SLS, it is steadily gaining popularity in gentle face washes, baby products and micellar waters because formulators appreciate its low irritation profile and dependable foam.
Current safety data shows a low risk of irritation or allergy when used at normal cosmetic levels, making it a dependable choice for most skin types. As with any new skincare product, patch testing is a smart step before regular use just to stay on the safe side.