C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5

What is C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5?

C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating secondary alcohols with 12 to 14 carbon atoms using five moles of ethylene oxide. This gives it a balanced hydrophilic-lipophilic structure ideal for bridging oil and water. Primarily used in shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers, and light lotions, it functions by lowering interfacial tension to disperse oils and dirt effectively. It forms a flexible film at interfaces to lock emulsions in place, averting creaming or splitting over time. Additionally, it dampens foam buildup during production or application, ensuring smooth handling and even distribution. Its secondary alcohol base contributes to milder behavior compared to some primary alcohol ethoxylates, supporting clearer rinses and softer after-feel on skin and hair.

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:

Antifoaming agent

Suppresses or breaks down foam during manufacturing or use, improving filling, mixing efficiency, and product performance where excessive foam is undesirable.

Emulsion stabilizer

Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.

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 stable product textures by preventing emulsion breakdown for consistent application.

Facilitates thorough cleansing while managing foam levels for user-friendly use.

Improves manufacturing efficiency by reducing unwanted bubbles during mixing.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Users of daily cleansers wanting reliable lather control and quick rinse.	Those with extremely reactive skin, as even mild surfactants may occasionally sensitize.
People with normal skin preferring lightweight, non-greasy formulas.	People avoiding ethoxylated ingredients on principle.
Individuals seeking emulsion-based products like lotions that maintain uniformity.	Users of anhydrotic or powder-only routines where surfactants serve no role.

Safety Notes

Considered low concern for use in cosmetics based on hazard assessments.
Typically non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores in formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions about C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5

What does C12-14 Sec-Pareth-5 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant and emulsifier to cleanse, stabilize mixtures, and control foam.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Generally mild, but patch test recommended for very reactive skin types.

Does it cause breakouts?

Rated non-comedogenic, safe for most acne-prone users in diluted forms.