What Is Trideceth-6 Phosphate?
Trideceth-6 phosphate is a synthetic surfactant made by joining tridecyl alcohol with roughly six units of ethylene oxide, then attaching a phosphate group. The resulting molecule has both water loving and oil loving parts, which lets it break up oils and mix them with water. Manufacturers first explored phosphate ester surfactants in the mid 20th century as gentler options for household cleaning, and their mildness soon made them attractive for personal care. Commercial production involves three main steps: sourcing fatty alcohol from plant or petroleum feedstocks, ethoxylating the alcohol under controlled heat and pressure, and finally reacting the ethoxylated chain with phosphoric acid to create the phosphate ester. Because the process is tightly regulated the finished ingredient is highly consistent batch to batch.
Today you will most often find Trideceth-6 phosphate in foaming facial cleansers, body washes, micellar waters, makeup removers, shampoos, exfoliating pads and some lightweight lotions or gels where easy rinsing is desired. Formulators choose it when they want a cleanser that lathers well yet feels mild on skin and hair.
Trideceth-6 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Here is what this multitasking ingredient brings to a formula:
- Cleansing – Its surfactant nature lifts dirt, makeup and excess oil so they can be rinsed away with water, giving products a fresh clean feel without stripping
- Emulsifying – It helps water and oil mix smoothly which keeps creams, lotions or cleansing oils from separating and ensures an even texture each time you use the product
Who Can Use Trideceth-6 Phosphate
This ingredient is gentle enough for most skin types. Oily and combination skin often benefit the most because the surfactant helps lift excess sebum, while normal skin usually tolerates it well. Dry or very sensitive skin can also use it in rinse-off formulas, though a high concentration left on the skin may feel a bit drying so those users may prefer short contact or lower-strength products.
Trideceth-6 phosphate is typically sourced from plant or petroleum alcohols and produced entirely by chemical synthesis, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived raw materials or by-products are needed for its manufacture.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has found phosphate ester surfactants like this one to be safe for topical use, which includes products used by people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. There is no evidence the molecule penetrates deeply or reaches the bloodstream in meaningful amounts. That said, this is not medical advice, and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have their doctor review any skincare routine to be extra sure it is appropriate for their individual situation.
Trideceth-6 phosphate is not known to cause photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. There are also no reported issues with common skin actives such as retinoids or vitamin C when used in the same routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Trideceth-6 phosphate vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but most users will not experience these when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation – Rare stinging or redness can occur, typically in very sensitive skin or when used in high concentrations
- Dryness or tightness – Extended contact or frequent cleansing may strip natural oils leading to a temporary dry feel
- Allergic contact dermatitis – An uncommon allergy can present as itching, rash or swelling
- Eye irritation – If the product accidentally gets into eyes it can cause watering or discomfort until rinsed out
- Enhanced penetration of other actives – As a surfactant it can slightly increase skin permeability which may amplify irritation from harsher ingredients applied immediately afterward
If you notice any persistent redness, burning or swelling while using a product that contains Trideceth-6 phosphate stop use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Trideceth-6 phosphate is a lightweight, water-soluble surfactant that does not leave an oily film on skin so it is very unlikely to clog pores. Because it is usually rinsed off, any residue that could potentially trap dead cells or sebum is minimal. This makes it generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. If a product containing this ingredient still feels heavy or leaves skin tight it is more likely due to the overall formula or how often it is used, not the Trideceth-6 phosphate itself.
One point to remember is that a low comedogenic score does not guarantee zero pimples for everyone. Individual reactions depend on the complete product, frequency of use, skin type and any other actives in the routine.
Summary
Trideceth-6 phosphate is primarily valued for two jobs: cleansing and emulsifying. Its dual water-loving and oil-loving structure grabs onto dirt, oil and makeup then helps them rinse away with water, leaving skin or hair feeling clean but not stripped. The same structure lets it hold water and oil together inside a formula so creams, gels and washes stay smooth and stable over time.
While it is not the most talked-about ingredient on social media, formulators reach for it when they want reliable, gentle foam and easy rinse-off in facial cleansers, micellar waters and light lotions. Its consistent performance at low use levels means it quietly powers many everyday products without fanfare.
Safety reviews rate Trideceth-6 phosphate as low risk when used as directed and irritation is uncommon. As with any new skincare product it is still smart to do a small patch test first so you can be sure your own skin responds well.