What Is Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate?
Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate is the triethanolamine (TEA) salt of the sulfate form of a synthetic fatty alcohol derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. The “C12-13” part refers to the length of the carbon chain in the fatty alcohol, while “Alketh-3” signals that three units of ethylene oxide have been added. Turning the raw fatty alcohol into this sulfate salt gives it water-loving and oil-loving sides, a key feature for mixing ingredients that normally separate.
The cosmetic industry began using sulfate surfactants in the mid-20th century to create stable lathers in shampoos and cleansers. As formulas evolved, chemists looked for versions that were milder and more flexible. By reacting C12-13 fatty alcohol with ethylene oxide then neutralizing it with triethanolamine, they produced Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate, a compound that met these goals and fitted well into modern, mild rinse-off products.
Manufacturing starts with plant-sourced fatty alcohols. These are treated with ethylene oxide to add three ethoxy groups, then sulfated using sulfur trioxide or chlorosulfonic acid. Finally triethanolamine is added to form a stable salt. The result is a fine liquid or paste that dissolves easily in water.
You will most often see Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate in foaming face washes, body washes, bubble baths, clarifying shampoos, exfoliating scrubs, makeup removing wipes and some liquid hand soaps. It can also appear in peel-off masks and shower gels where steady foam and even distribution are important.
Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Its main role revolves around helping oil and water mix smoothly which enhances texture and performance.
As an emulsifying agent Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate keeps oil-based and water-based ingredients blended so the product stays uniform from the first pump to the last. This leads to a stable formula, a pleasing feel on skin and reliable delivery of actives. In cleansers it also lifts away dirt and excess sebum, allowing them to rinse off easily without heavy residue.
Who Can Use Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate
This ingredient performs best in rinse-off products and is generally well tolerated by normal, oily and combination skin. Dry or very sensitive skin might find it slightly stripping if the overall formula is high in sulfates or low in moisturizers because its cleansing action can remove natural oils.
Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate is synthesized from plant-derived fatty alcohols and does not rely on animal by-products, so formulations containing it are typically suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the full ingredient list to make sure no other animal-based materials are present.
Available safety data show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in the small amounts found in personal care products. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their skincare routine with a qualified healthcare provider to stay on the safe side.
The ingredient is not known to increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection habits should still be followed due to other environmental factors.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet unlikely for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated in a product.
- Mild skin irritation: Some individuals may notice transient stinging, redness or tightness especially with prolonged contact or high concentrations
- Dryness or flaking: Its surfactant action can strip natural oils causing the skin or scalp to feel dry if not balanced with conditioning agents
- Eye irritation: Direct contact with eyes may cause watering or discomfort similar to many cleansing surfactants
- Allergic contact dermatitis: Rare sensitization can lead to itching, swelling or rash in highly sensitive users
- Scalp irritation: In shampoos overused on already irritated scalps it can exacerbate itchiness or flakiness
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate is a water-soluble cleansing agent that does not deposit heavy oils or waxes on the skin. Because it is typically used in rinse-off products any residue left behind is minimal which keeps pore-clogging potential very low. The slight chance of buildup in leave-on formulas earns it a conservative score of 1 rather than a perfect 0.
With such a low rating it is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
As with most surfactants comedogenic risk rises only if the overall formula is thickened with occlusive ingredients that remain on the skin so the full product context matters.
Summary
Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate acts chiefly as an emulsifier and secondary cleanser. Its dual water-loving and oil-loving structure lets it pull oily grime into water so the dirt can be rinsed away, while also keeping oil and water phases blended for a smooth stable texture.
You will spot it most often in everyday face washes, body washes and shampoos rather than in trendy serums which makes its popularity solid but not headline grabbing. Formulators pick it for reliable foam and mildness that fit budget-friendly products.
Current safety data show it to be low risk when used at the small percentages found in personal care items. Still every skin type is unique so doing a quick patch test with any new product that lists Tea-C12-13 Alketh-3 Sulfate is a smart precaution.