Di-C12-15 Pareth-8 Phosphate

What is Di-C12-15 Pareth-8 Phosphate?

Di-C12-15 Pareth-8 Phosphate is an anionic surfactant formed by phosphorylating ethoxylated C12-15 alcohols with eight ethylene oxide units. It appears in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and lotions as a key functional ingredient. By lowering interfacial tension, it facilitates the removal of oils and soils from skin and hair through micelle formation. In emulsions, it creates a stable barrier between oil and water phases, preventing separation and maintaining smooth textures. The dual phosphate groups enhance its solubility and mildness compared to harsher surfactants, supporting effective yet gentle performance in rinse-off and leave-on products. Commonly used at low levels, it contributes to foaming and conditioning without compromising formulation integrity.

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.
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

Gentle surface tension reduction for effective dirt and oil removal.

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures in creams and cleansers.

Provides balanced foaming suitable for daily washes.

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 seeking mild cleansing in sensitive skin routines.
Those with rare sensitivities to phosphate esters.
Users of shampoos and body washes needing good lather.
Preferers of non-ethoxylated surfactant alternatives.
People with emulsions like lotions for consistent application.
Individuals avoiding any anionic surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for cosmetic use by regulatory assessments.
  • Exhibits low comedogenic potential and minimal irritation risk.

Frequently Asked Questions about Di-C12-15 Pareth-8 Phosphate

What does Di-C12-15 Pareth-8 Phosphate do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse by lifting oils, emulsifies for stable textures, and foams in washes.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Its mild profile makes it appropriate for many sensitive skin formulations.

Does it clog pores?

Rated non-comedogenic, unlikely to contribute to pore blockage.