What Is Sodium Trideceth-12 Carboxylate?
Sodium Trideceth-12 Carboxylate is a synthetic surfactant created by linking a tridecyl alcohol chain to polyethylene glycol units and finishing the molecule with a carboxylate group that is neutralized with sodium. This combination gives the ingredient both oil loving and water loving parts, allowing it to interact with dirt and rinse it away easily. It emerged in the late twentieth century when formulators looked for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps that could still generate satisfying foam. Production involves ethoxylating tridecyl alcohol to add about twelve ethylene oxide units, then reacting the terminal end with chloroacetic acid to introduce the carboxylate group before neutralizing with sodium hydroxide. You are most likely to see it in facial cleansers, body washes, shampoo, bubble baths and makeup removers where a mild yet effective cleansing action is needed.
Sodium Trideceth-12 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In personal care formulas this ingredient pulls its weight in several practical ways.
- Cleansing – Lifts oil, sweat and makeup from the skin or hair so they can be rinsed away leaving a fresh feel
- Foaming – Produces a rich lather that helps spread the product evenly and gives users a sensory cue that the cleanser is working
Who Can Use Sodium Trideceth-12 Carboxylate
This surfactant is generally suitable for all skin types including oily, combination, normal and even most sensitive skin since it is milder than traditional soap. Those with very dry or highly reactive skin should still keep an eye on how their skin feels because any cleanser can strip moisture if overused.
The ingredient is made from synthetic raw materials so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. No animal-derived substances are involved in the manufacturing process and it is not known to be tested on animals when sourced from reputable suppliers.
Current safety data does not flag special risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in rinse-off products like cleansers or shampoo. That said this is not medical advice so anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask their doctor before starting a new skincare product just to be safe.
Sodium Trideceth-12 Carboxylate does not cause photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also plays well with most other common skincare ingredients and preservatives.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues but most users will not encounter them if the product is well-formulated and used as directed.
- Mild dryness or tightness particularly if the cleanser is left on the skin for an extended time or used too often
- Transient stinging on very sensitive or broken skin
- Contact irritation such as redness or itching in individuals with specific surfactant sensitivities
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If you notice persistent redness, itching or any discomfort stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Sodium Trideceth-12 Carboxylate is a fully water-soluble surfactant that rinses away cleanly rather than leaving an oily film that could clog pores. Its molecular size and polarity make it unlikely to sit inside follicles or mix with sebum long enough to spark breakouts. For those prone to acne it is generally considered safe in rinse-off cleansers, shampoos and body washes. The only time it might raise concern is if a formula combines it with heavy occlusive oils that stay on the skin after rinsing.
Summary
Sodium Trideceth-12 Carboxylate works primarily as a cleansing and foaming agent. Its structure gives it a lipophilic tail that grabs oils and a hydrophilic head that binds to water, allowing dirt, sweat and makeup to lift off the skin or hair and wash down the drain. The ingredient is not as famous as classic sulfates but formulators appreciate its mildness so it shows up in a fair share of gentle face washes, bubble baths and micellar waters.
Current research and decades of use point to a strong safety record, especially in rinse-off products. While irritation is rare most dermatologists still recommend a quick patch test whenever you start using a new product, just to be safe.