What Is Sodium C12-15 Alketh-12 Carboxylate?
Sodium C12-15 Alketh-12 Carboxylate is a surfactant derived from medium-chain fatty alcohols that come from natural sources such as coconut or palm oil. Chemically it is the sodium salt of a carboxylated polyethylene glycol ether, with a carbon chain length of 12 to 15 and an average of 11 ethylene oxide units. This structure gives the molecule a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail, letting it mix oil and water with ease.
The path to its use in cosmetics began in the mid-20th century, when formulators looked for milder alternatives to traditional soaps. By reacting fatty alcohols with ethylene oxide, then carboxylating and neutralizing the mixture with sodium hydroxide, chemists created a new class of gentle yet effective cleansers. Over time the ingredient gained popularity for its ability to produce a creamy lather without stripping skin or hair.
Industrial production starts with purified C12-15 fatty alcohols. These undergo controlled ethoxylation to attach the ethylene oxide units. The resulting alkoxylated alcohol is then oxidized to introduce a carboxylic acid group, after which sodium hydroxide is added to form the final sodium salt. The process yields a free-flowing paste or liquid that blends easily into water-based formulations.
You will most often see Sodium C12-15 Alketh-12 Carboxylate in facial cleansers, body washes, liquid hand soaps, bubble baths, micellar waters, shampoo bars and baby washes. Its mildness also makes it useful in make-up removing wipes and shaving foams.
Sodium C12-15 Alketh-12 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin and hair care this ingredient plays one primary role that drives its inclusion in many everyday products.
Cleansing: As a surfactant it lowers the surface tension of water so oils, dirt and sunscreen residue can be lifted away and rinsed off. It creates a light stable foam, leaves a fresh feel after rinsing and is less likely to cause dryness or irritation compared with harsher sulfate-based cleaners.
Who Can Use Sodium C12-15 Alketh-12 Carboxylate
Because it is a mild surfactant, Sodium C12-15 Alketh-12 Carboxylate is generally suitable for most skin types including oily, combination and sensitive. Its balanced cleansing power helps remove excess oil without stripping dry or mature skin, while the gentle foam is unlikely to aggravate easily irritated complexions. Those with very compromised barriers or active dermatitis may still prefer to choose ultra-gentle formulas or limit use, as any surfactant can feel drying if left on too long or used too frequently.
The ingredient is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly since the fatty alcohols used to make it are typically sourced from coconut or palm oil, and no animal-derived materials are involved in the manufacturing process.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women can generally use products containing Sodium C12-15 Alketh-12 Carboxylate because topical absorption is minimal and no reproductive toxicity has been reported. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss all personal care products with a qualified healthcare provider to be extra safe.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not linked to photosensitivity. It is also considered color-safe for hair and compatible with most other common skincare or haircare ingredients.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Sodium C12-15 Alketh-12 Carboxylate vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly within a finished cosmetic formula.
Mild transient eye irritation if cleanser enters the eyes
Temporary skin dryness or tightness, especially when used with very hot water or in high concentrations
Occasional redness or stinging in individuals with eczema, rosacea or a severely damaged skin barrier
Allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitive to ethoxylated surfactants
If any discomfort occurs discontinue use and seek advice from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Sodium C12-15 Alketh-12 Carboxylate is highly water soluble, creates little to no oily residue and is usually found in rinse-off products, so it has a very low tendency to block pores. It may be paired with richer emollients in some formulas, yet by itself it is not known to trap sebum or dead skin cells.
Because of this low score the ingredient is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind that overall product composition, how long the cleanser sits on the skin and individual skin chemistry can all influence real-world pore-clogging potential.
Summary
Sodium C12-15 Alketh-12 Carboxylate is a mild surfactant that lifts away oil, dirt and product buildup by surrounding them with its water-loving head and oil-loving tail so they rinse off easily. Its balanced foam and low irritation profile make it handy in facial cleansers, body washes and baby shampoos.
The ingredient is fairly popular in modern formulas aimed at sensitive skin, though it is not as ubiquitous as sulfates or newer glucoside surfactants. Formulators often combine it with other gentle surfactants to fine-tune lather and skin feel.
Safety reviews find it non-sensitizing and non-toxic at the levels used in cosmetics. While most people tolerate it well, it is always smart to patch test any new product to be sure your own skin agrees.