C12-13 Pareth-23

Benefits
Cleansing

What is C12-13 Pareth-23?

C12-13 Pareth-23 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant produced by reacting a mixture of dodecanol and tridecanol (C12-C13 fatty alcohols derived from natural oils or petrochemicals) with 23 moles of ethylene oxide. This ethoxylation process adds hydrophilic polyethylene glycol chains, resulting in a water-soluble ingredient with a high HLB value around 16, making it ideal for oil-in-water emulsions. Commonly found in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and micellar waters, it functions by reducing surface tension to lift dirt and oils, stabilizing mixtures of water and oils, and dissolving fragrances or active ingredients into clear formulas. Its mild profile suits frequent-use rinse-off applications, contributing to foam formation and product clarity without residue.

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.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Solubilizing agent
Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.
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

Enables effective removal of dirt, oil, and makeup through micelle formation.

Stabilizes emulsions for smooth-textured lotions and cleansers.

Solubilizes oils and scents in water-based products like toners.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with normal or oily skin seeking thorough yet gentle cleansing.
Those with rare sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients.
Users of daily rinse-off products like body washes and shampoos.
Individuals preferring completely natural or PEG-free formulations.
People preferring clear, non-residue formulas in micellar waters.
People with known allergies to fatty alcohol derivatives.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard in cosmetic use by safety review panels.
  • Non-comedogenic and suitable for most skin types in rinse-off products.

Frequently Asked Questions about C12-13 Pareth-23

What is C12-13 Pareth-23 used for in skincare?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse, emulsify oils in water, and solubilize fragrances in products like cleansers and toners.

Is C12-13 Pareth-23 safe for sensitive skin?

It has a low irritation profile, making it suitable for many sensitive skin users in rinse-off formulations.

Does it clog pores?

Rated non-comedogenic, it does not contribute to pore blockages.