What Is Sodium Ceteareth-13 Carboxylate?
Sodium Ceteareth-13 Carboxylate is a synthetic ingredient created by reacting fatty alcohols that come from coconut or palm oil with ethylene oxide, then adding a carboxyl group and neutralizing the mixture with a small amount of sodium hydroxide. The result is a mild, water-soluble surfactant that belongs to the larger family of polyethylene glycol ethers. It first appeared in personal care labs when formulators started looking for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps in the late twentieth century, and its popularity has grown thanks to its ability to clean without stripping the skin.
In modern production the fatty alcohol chain (mainly C16-C18) is ethoxylated to an average of 12 units, carboxylated to introduce a negatively charged group, then turned into its sodium salt form. This balanced structure lets the molecule attract both oil and water, making it a handy choice for rinsable products.
You will most often spot Sodium Ceteareth-13 Carboxylate in facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, micellar waters, makeup removers, baby washes and gentle exfoliating masks. It can also appear in two-step cleansing oils or wipes where a quick but soft rinse off is needed.
Sodium Ceteareth-13 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
The main job of this ingredient is to keep skin and hair feeling fresh and comfortable while a product is rinsed away.
As a cleansing agent it lowers the surface tension of water so grime, makeup, sunscreen and excess oil lift off more easily. Because it is milder than many sulfate-based surfactants, it helps a formula clean effectively yet leave the skin barrier feeling smooth and not overly tight.
Who Can Use Sodium Ceteareth-13 Carboxylate
This gentle surfactant is generally well suited to all skin types including oily, combination, normal, dry and even most sensitive complexions because it cleans without stripping natural moisture. People with very compromised or severely eczematous skin might still prefer a formula packed with extra soothing lipids but the ingredient itself is not known to be harsh.
It is produced from plant derived fatty alcohols and contains no animal by products so it is considered appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
No studies have flagged issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Sodium Ceteareth-13 Carboxylate is used topically in rinse off products. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to a qualified physician before adding it to a routine, just to be safe.
The molecule does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Regular sun protection is still essential for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual reactions to topical ingredients can vary widely. The points below outline potential side effects linked to Sodium Ceteareth-13 Carboxylate, though they remain uncommon when the ingredient is used at typical cosmetic concentrations.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or itching
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for those already sensitized to polyethylene glycol derivatives
- Eye stinging or watering if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
- Slight dryness or tightness if the overall formula lacks moisturizers and is used multiple times a day
If you experience any persistent discomfort or an unexpected reaction discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Sodium Ceteareth-13 Carboxylate earns a low score because its large, water-soluble structure rinses off easily and does not tend to lodge in pores. While it starts with fatty alcohol chains, the heavy ethoxylation and carboxylation steps dramatically cut any pore-clogging potential. It is therefore considered suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
As with most surfactants, any comedogenic risk usually comes from the overall formula or from insufficient rinsing rather than the ingredient itself.
Summary
Sodium Ceteareth-13 Carboxylate is a mild synthetic surfactant that lifts away oil, dirt and makeup by lowering water’s surface tension then rinses off without stripping the skin barrier. Its balanced oil-attracting and water-attracting parts let it clean effectively while staying gentle.
It shows up in a fair number of modern cleansers, shampoos and micellar waters though it is not as widely talked about as sulfates or newer glucosides. Formulators appreciate it for its reliable cleansing power and low irritation profile.
Current data says it is safe for topical use at cosmetic levels with very low risk of irritation or pore clogging. Still, skin can react unpredictably so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains it before full-face use.