What Is Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate?
Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate is a surfactant made by attaching a sulfonate group to medium-length, straight-chain hydrocarbons that contain 14 to 17 carbon atoms. The result is a water-soluble sodium salt that has a strong attraction to both oil and water, allowing it to lift grime and disperse it easily. Commercial production starts with petroleum-derived alkanes, which are first chlorinated, then reacted with sodium sulfite before neutralization. This type of chemistry was refined in the mid-20th century when formulators were looking for alternatives to traditional soaps that could clean well in hard water. Because of its reliable performance at a reasonable cost it soon became a staple in shampoos and body washes.
Today you will most often find Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate in foaming cleansers, liquid soaps, shower gels, bubble baths and some facial washes. Its balance of cleansing power and mildness has also earned it a spot in sulfate-free shampoos and baby washes where gentler surfactants are preferred.
Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves more than one job in a formula, making it a handy choice for many everyday products.
- Cleansing: Its surfactant nature helps break the bond between skin or hair and the dirt, sweat or oil that sits on top, so everything rinses away cleanly without heavy scrubbing
- Foaming: It produces a rich, stable lather that improves the user experience and helps spread the cleanser evenly across skin or hair
Who Can Use Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate
This surfactant is generally considered suitable for normal, oily and combination skin thanks to its effective yet moderate cleansing strength. People with very dry or highly sensitive skin may find it a bit stripping if used in high concentrations or in leave-on products because it can remove some of the skin’s natural lipids. If you fall into these groups, look for formulas that pair the ingredient with extra moisturizers or use it only occasionally.
Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate is synthetic and petroleum derived, containing no animal by-products, which makes it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data indicates no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically at the low percentages found in rinse-off products. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product past a qualified health professional to be on the safe side.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with common actives like retinol or vitamin C. It is also water soluble so it will not clog pores or build up on hair with normal cleansing.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate vary from person to person. The following are potential side effects that can occur even though most users tolerate the ingredient well when it is formulated correctly.
- Dryness or tightness of skin after washing
- Mild irritation or redness, particularly on already compromised skin
- Stinging if the product gets into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for individuals with specific sulfonate sensitivities
- Increased scalp flakiness if used in a highly concentrated shampoo on very dry scalps
If you notice any of these effects stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5. Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate is a fully water-soluble surfactant that rinses away without leaving a film that could block pores. It has no oily or waxy residues and does not linger on the skin in rinse-off products, so it earns the lowest possible score.
Because of this low rating it is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
One extra point to note is that heavy scrubbing or very hot water used alongside any cleanser can still aggravate acne even if the ingredient itself is non-comedogenic, so technique matters too.
Summary
Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate is a versatile surfactant that lifts dirt oil and product buildup while creating a rich foam. Its twin talents of cleansing and lathering come from its split personality molecule, with one end that loves water and another that grabs onto grease so everything can wash away easily.
You will see it most often in budget-friendly shampoos body washes and sulfate-free cleansers because it offers solid performance at a modest price. It is not as famous as older sulfates like SLS yet formulators appreciate its balance of cleaning power and mildness which has kept it in steady demand.
Current research shows it is safe for use in the low percentages found in rinse-off products with only minor dryness or irritation possible for very sensitive users. As with any new skincare or haircare item it is smart to do a quick patch test before diving into full use just to make sure your skin stays happy.