What Is Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate?
Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate is a surfactant made by attaching sulfonic acid groups to linear alkanes that contain 13 to 17 carbon atoms, then neutralizing the mixture with sodium hydroxide. The raw alkanes can come from petroleum fractions or plant derived fatty alcohols, giving manufacturers flexibility in sourcing. The finished ingredient appears as a white to off-white powder or viscous liquid that dissolves readily in water.
Surfactants of this type were first introduced in the 1960s as more biodegradable alternatives to older alkyl benzene sulfonates. As consumer demand grew for milder sulfate-free cleansers, formulators turned to sodium alkane sulfonates because they clean effectively while producing a rich, stable foam and tending to be less irritating than traditional sulfates.
Commercial production involves three key steps: selection of a linear C13-17 alkane feedstock, continuous sulfonation using sulfur trioxide gas to add the sulfonic acid group and neutralization with sodium hydroxide to yield the sodium salt. The product is then spray-dried or concentrated, filtered and quality tested for purity, color and active matter before shipment to cosmetic manufacturers.
Thanks to its mild cleansing profile, Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate shows up in both rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, bubble baths, liquid hand soaps, shaving creams, makeup removing wipes, dog grooming shampoos and solid syndet bars.
Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient earns its place in a formula by tackling two key performance needs
- Cleansing: Its amphiphilic structure lowers the surface tension of water so oils, dirt and product residue can be lifted from skin or hair and rinsed away easily, leaving a clean yet comfortable feel
- Foaming: It produces dense, stable lather that spreads cleansers evenly, improves rinseability and enhances the sensory experience consumers expect from shampoos and body washes
Who Can Use Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate
This surfactant is generally well tolerated by normal, oily and combination skin because it lifts away excess sebum without leaving a heavy residue. Dry or very sensitive skin may find it slightly stripping if used in high concentrations or in products left on the skin for long periods, though most rinse-off formulas include conditioning agents to offset that effect.
Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate is manufactured synthetically, and no animal-derived components are required during its production so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Some brands may even source the starting fatty alcohols from plant oils to strengthen that claim.
Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals can typically use products containing this ingredient in the same way as the general population. Because each pregnancy is unique, this is not medical advice and it is best to confirm any skincare routine with a qualified healthcare provider.
The ingredient is not known to increase photosensitivity, and it does not react with sunlight to produce free radicals or dark spots. It also plays nicely with most other common cleanser ingredients, making it a flexible option in multi-active formulas.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate can vary from person to person. The following list covers potential but uncommon side effects when the ingredient is applied topically. In properly formulated products most users will not experience these issues.
- Dryness or tightness
- Mild irritation or redness on very sensitive skin
- Stinging if applied to broken or abraded skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If discomfort, redness or any other adverse reaction occurs, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
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Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate is a water-soluble surfactant that rinses off completely and leaves no oily film behind. Because clogged pores are usually triggered by heavy oils or waxes that linger on the skin this lightweight ingredient has virtually no tendency to block follicles. It is therefore considered non-comedogenic and suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Its quick rinse-off nature further reduces any chance of buildup so even daily use in cleansers is unlikely to cause pore congestion.
Summary
Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate serves mainly as a cleanser and foaming agent. Its amphiphilic structure latches onto oil and dirt while keeping one end attracted to water which lets grime lift away when you rinse. The same surface activity whips air into a dense stable lather that spreads product evenly and improves rinseability.
This surfactant is popular in modern sulfate-free shampoos body washes and facial cleansers because it offers effective cleansing with lower irritation potential than traditional sulfates. It is not quite as widely known as big names like sodium lauryl sulfate yet formulators value it for mildness and rich foam.
Most safety assessments rate it as low risk for skin irritation especially in rinse-off products. Still every skin type is different so it is smart to patch test any new product containing this ingredient before full-face or full-body use.