C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7

What is C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7?

C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating secondary alcohols with carbon chains of 12 to 14 units using seven moles of ethylene oxide. This chemical modification imparts water solubility and mild surface-active properties. Commonly found in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers, as well as leave-on items such as lotions and creams. It functions by lowering interfacial tension between oil and water phases, enabling effective dirt and oil removal during cleansing while forming protective films around emulsion droplets to prevent separation. Its secondary alcohol base and moderate ethoxylation degree contribute to balanced hydrophilicity, supporting foam generation and product texture stability without excessive drying.

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:

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

Enhances emulsion stability in creams and lotions for smooth, consistent application.

Provides gentle surface tension reduction for effective yet non-stripping cleansing.

Supports uniform mixing of ingredients, improving overall product performance.

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 seeking mild formulation options.
Those with rare allergies to ethoxylated alcohols.
Individuals incorporating emulsion-based moisturizers and lotions.
Individuals avoiding synthetic surfactants entirely.
People preferring products with stable textures for reliable use.
Users sensitive to any preservative or adjunct ingredients in formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as safe for use in cosmetics by expert review panels.
  • Low potential for skin sensitization or irritation in typical concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7

What is C12-14 Sec-Pareth-7 used for?

It serves as a surfactant and emulsifier in cleansers, shampoos, and lotions to stabilize formulas and aid cleansing.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

It has a low irritation profile per safety assessments, suitable for many skin types in cosmetic products.

How does it differ from other pareths?

The 'sec' indicates secondary alcohol base with C12-14 chains and 7 ethoxy groups, offering specific mildness.