What Is Sodium Trideceth-4 Carboxylate?
Sodium Trideceth-4 Carboxylate is a synthetic cleaning agent made by attaching four units of ethylene oxide to a 13-carbon alcohol, then converting one end of the molecule into a mild carboxylate salt. The result is a water-soluble surfactant that can lift away oil and dirt while rinsing off easily. It belongs to the larger family of ether carboxylate surfactants that first appeared in the 1980s when formulators wanted alternatives to harsher sulfates. Today manufacturers create it in a controlled, closed-tube process that starts with natural or petro-based fatty alcohols, adds ethylene oxide under heat and pressure, then neutralizes the product with sodium hydroxide. Because it is gentle yet effective, you will find it in facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removers, body washes, baby shampoos and some sulfate-free foaming masks.
Sodium Trideceth-4 Carboxylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued mainly for its role as a surfactant in rinse-off and leave-on products.
- Cleansing: As a mild surfactant it lowers the surface tension of water so oils, makeup and everyday grime can be loosened and carried away. It also helps formulas create a soft foam and improves rinsability, leaving skin feeling fresh without a tight or squeaky after-feel.
Who Can Use Sodium Trideceth-4 Carboxylate
Because it is a mild, sulfate-free surfactant, Sodium Trideceth-4 Carboxylate is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive, oily, combination and mature skin. People with very dry or already irritated skin may still feel some tightness if the formula contains a high cleansing load, so pairing it with hydrating ingredients is ideal.
The ingredient is synthetically produced from plant or petroleum sources and contains no animal-derived substances, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. Always confirm the full product ingredient list if strict cruelty-free or vegan standards are required.
Current safety data show no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used as directed in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. This is not medical advice, and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare product past a healthcare provider to be on the safe side.
Sodium Trideceth-4 Carboxylate is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it does not make skin more prone to sunburn. As with any routine, daily sunscreen remains important for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical use of Sodium Trideceth-4 Carboxylate can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues only and are unlikely to be the typical user experience when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished cosmetic.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, especially on broken or highly sensitive skin
- Dryness or a feeling of tightness if the formula lacks adequate moisturizers
- Rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching, rash or swelling
- Transient eye irritation or watering if the product accidentally enters the eyes
If any negative reaction occurs, stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional or qualified skincare specialist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non comedogenic)
Sodium Trideceth-4 Carboxylate is a fully water soluble surfactant that rinses away without leaving oily residues, so it does not obstruct pores or foster blackheads.
It is suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin.
When evaluating clogging potential, consider the entire formula because richer oils or butters added alongside this surfactant can alter the final product’s behavior.
Summary
Sodium Trideceth-4 Carboxylate works mainly as a mild yet effective cleansing agent that loosens and lifts oils, makeup and grime so they can be washed away. Its ether carboxylate structure lets it foam lightly, rinse clean and feel gentler than traditional sulfates.
Though not a household name, it shows up in a range of sulfate free face cleansers, micellar waters, baby shampoos and body washes where formulators want reliable cleansing without harshness.
Safety reviews rate it low risk for irritation or systemic effects, and it carries a zero comedogenic score. Even so, try a patch test with any new product to be sure it suits your individual skin.