C11-15 Pareth-7

What is C11-15 Pareth-7?

C11-15 Pareth-7 belongs to the pareth family of nonionic surfactants, produced by ethoxylating a blend of linear fatty alcohols containing 11 to 15 carbon atoms with roughly seven ethylene oxide molecules. This process imparts water solubility and amphiphilic properties, allowing it to interact effectively with both oils and water. In cosmetics, it appears in rinse-off items like shampoos, shower gels, and facial cleansers, as well as leave-on products such as lotions and creams. As a surfactant, it decreases surface tension to lift away dirt, sebum, and residues during washing. Its emulsifying role involves creating a protective film at oil-water interfaces, promoting uniform blending and preventing phase separation for reliable product performance and texture.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Delivers effective yet gentle cleansing by reducing surface tension to dislodge impurities.

Helps form stable oil-in-water emulsions for smooth, consistent lotion and cream textures.

Contributes to light foaming action in washes for a pleasant user experience.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People using daily cleansers who want mild surfactant action.
Those with rare allergies to ethoxylated alcohols.
Individuals with normal to oily skin preferring non-comedogenic formulas.
People sensitive to surfactants in eye-area products.
Users of emulsified moisturizers seeking formula stability.
Individuals opting for completely natural, non-synthetic ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Safety reviews confirm suitability for use in cosmetics at standard levels.
  • Presents low comedogenic potential, suitable for pore-friendly routines.

Frequently Asked Questions about C11-15 Pareth-7

What does C11-15 Pareth-7 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant for cleansing and an emulsifier to mix oils and water stably.

Is C11-15 Pareth-7 safe for everyday use?

Assessments indicate it is suitable in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics at typical amounts.

Can it clog pores?

It carries a comedogenic rating of zero, making it unlikely to contribute to blockages.