C12-14 Pareth-12

What is C12-14 Pareth-12?

C12-14 Pareth-12 belongs to the pareth family of nonionic surfactants, created by ethoxylating a blend of lauryl (C12) and myristyl (C14) alcohols with an average of 12 ethylene oxide units. This synthetic compound features a hydrophobic alkyl chain paired with a hydrophilic polyoxyethylene head, allowing it to lower surface tension in formulations. Commonly found in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and emulsified products like creams and lotions, it solubilizes oils into water, promotes foaming, and stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions by forming protective films at phase interfaces. Its balanced hydrophile-lipophile balance supports gentle dirt removal and uniform product texture without stripping natural skin lipids excessively.

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

Supports thorough yet mild cleansing by dispersing oils and dirt in water-based rinses.

Helps create smooth, stable emulsions in creams and lotions for even application.

Contributes to light foaming action in washes, enhancing user experience without residue.

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 seeking gentle daily cleansers for normal or sensitive skin.
Anyone with known sensitivity to ethoxylated surfactants.
Individuals using emulsified moisturizers or serums for hydration.
People preferring completely natural or preservative-free products.
Those preferring non-comedogenic formulas for acne-prone skin.
Those with extremely reactive barrier conditions, as a precaution.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by safety assessments, suitable for rinse-off and leave-on uses.
  • Non-comedogenic profile makes it appropriate for blemish-prone skin types.

Frequently Asked Questions about C12-14 Pareth-12

Is C12-14 Pareth-12 safe for sensitive skin?

Yes, its mild nonionic nature suits many sensitive skin routines in cleansers and lotions.

Does it clog pores?

No, it carries a non-comedogenic rating, ideal for oily or acne-prone types.

What products typically contain it?

Found in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and emulsion-based creams.