What Is Sodium Trideceth-19 Carboxylate?
Sodium Trideceth-19 Carboxylate is a synthetic surfactant made by attaching about 19 ethylene oxide units to tridecyl alcohol, then converting one end of the chain into a carboxylic acid and neutralizing it with sodium. This gives the molecule a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail, the classic shape that helps lift dirt and oil from skin or hair. The ingredient emerged in the late 1980s when formulators looked for milder alternatives to traditional sulfates. By tweaking the length of the ethylene oxide chain they found a balance between gentle feel and effective cleansing, which led to its steady adoption in personal care products.
Manufacturing starts with plant-derived or petroleum-based tridecyl alcohol. The alcohol is reacted with ethylene oxide under controlled heat and pressure, creating the polyoxyethylene chain. The terminal alcohol group is then carboxymethylated, and finally the acid form is neutralized with sodium hydroxide to yield the water-soluble salt.
You will spot Sodium Trideceth-19 Carboxylate most often in sulfate-free shampoos, facial cleansers, micellar waters, body washes, baby washes and makeup removers. Its mild profile also makes it a support surfactant in exfoliating masks and gentle shaving foams.
Sodium Trideceth-19 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for one main job in personal care formulas.
Sodium Trideceth-19 Carboxylate works as a cleansing agent. Its amphiphilic structure surrounds oil, sunscreen residue and everyday grime so they can be rinsed away with water. Compared with harsher sulfates it produces a softer lather, helps reduce tightness after washing and is compatible with sensitive-skin blends.
Who Can Use Sodium Trideceth-19 Carboxylate
This surfactant is generally well tolerated by most skin types including normal, oily, combination and sensitive skin. People with very dry or eczema-prone skin may want to limit prolonged exposure since any cleanser can strip moisture if used too often.
The molecule is made through synthetic processing of tridecyl alcohol that is typically plant or petroleum derived with no animal inputs so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If full vegan certification is important, check that the finished product’s entire supply chain is free of animal derivatives.
No data indicate that Sodium Trideceth-19 Carboxylate poses a special risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Absorption through intact skin is minimal. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all skincare products with a qualified health professional.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity so there is no added need for sun precautions beyond normal daily sunscreen use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sodium Trideceth-19 Carboxylate vary between individuals. The points below outline potential but uncommon reactions when the ingredient is used in properly formulated cosmetics. Most people will not notice any of these effects.
- Mild skin dryness — may occur if the cleanser is left on the skin for extended periods or used very frequently
- Transient stinging or redness — more likely on compromised or freshly shaved skin
- Eye irritation — possible if the product accidentally gets into the eyes during use
- Allergic contact dermatitis — rare sensitization leading to itching or rash in susceptible individuals
- Exacerbation of existing dermatitis — over-cleansing can aggravate conditions like atopic dermatitis or rosacea
If any unwanted reaction develops stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5. Sodium Trideceth-19 Carboxylate is a highly water-soluble surfactant that is rinsed away almost completely during use, leaving negligible residue on skin. It contains no heavy oils or waxes that could lodge in pores, so the likelihood of clogging is essentially nil.
Because of this low residue profile, the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Its presence in wash-off formulas further minimizes any potential for pore blockage.
As with any cleansing agent the finished product’s overall formulation matters, so the comedogenicity of the full formula can differ if richer emollients are also included.
Summary
Sodium Trideceth-19 Carboxylate is a mild synthetic surfactant used to lift oil, dirt and sunscreen from skin and hair. Its amphiphilic structure lets the oil-loving tail surround grime while the water-loving head carries it away when you rinse.
You will find it in many sulfate-free shampoos, micellar waters and gentle facial cleansers. It is not as widely recognized as classic sulfates yet formulators appreciate its balance of mildness and effective cleansing, so its popularity has grown steadily among brands targeting sensitive skin.
Safety data show a low risk of irritation or sensitization when used as directed, and its non-comedogenic nature makes it friendly to most skin types. Still, whenever you try a new product it is smart to do a quick patch test first to be on the safe side.