Potassium C12-13 Alkyl Phosphate

What is Potassium C12-13 Alkyl Phosphate?

Potassium C12-13 alkyl phosphate is the potassium salt of a phosphoric acid monoester derived from a blend of dodecanol (C12) and tridecanol (C13) fatty alcohols. These alcohols originate from natural fats or petrochemical sources and react with phosphorus oxychloride to form the phosphate ester, neutralized with potassium hydroxide. Primarily used in rinse-off personal care products like shampoos, conditioners, and shower gels within the cleanser category, it functions as an anionic surfactant. By aligning hydrophilic phosphate heads and hydrophobic alkyl tails at interfaces, it reduces surface tension, disperses oils, and stabilizes foams. Its mild nature stems from the phosphate group's buffering against harsh pH shifts, making it suitable for formulations targeting everyday cleansing without stripping natural oils 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.
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.

Benefits

Delivers effective dirt and oil removal through micelle formation.

Supports stable, creamy lather in cleansing products.

Compatible in mild, sulfate-free formulations for balanced cleaning.

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 with sensitive skin seeking gentle surfactants.
Those with rare allergies to phosphate esters.
Individuals preferring rinse-off cleansers for daily routines.
People preferring completely non-ionic surfactant systems.
Users of shampoos and body washes needing reliable foaming.
Individuals sensitive to potassium-based salts in high concentrations.

Safety Notes

  • Recognized as low hazard by safety assessments for cosmetic use.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores in rinse-off applications.

Frequently Asked Questions about Potassium C12-13 Alkyl Phosphate

What does it do in cosmetics?

Acts as a surfactant to cleanse by reducing surface tension and enabling foam.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its mild anionic nature makes it appropriate for many sensitive skin types.

Does it cause breakouts?

Rated non-comedogenic, safe for acne-prone skin in rinse-off products.