Trideceth-2

What is Trideceth-2?

Trideceth-2 is a non-ionic surfactant created by reacting tridecyl alcohol, a branched-chain fatty alcohol derived from petroleum or plant sources, with two units of ethylene oxide. This ethoxylation process imparts hydrophilic properties, making it highly soluble in water. Primarily used in rinse-off products like shampoos, shower gels, and facial cleansers, as well as leave-on emulsions such as lotions and creams, it functions by reducing surface tension between liquids. This allows dirt and oils to be rinsed away effectively during cleansing. As an emulsifier, its amphiphilic structure forms a protective layer around oil droplets in water-based formulas, preventing phase separation and maintaining product stability over time. Its relatively short chain length contributes to milder performance compared to longer ethoxylates.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

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

Facilitates effective removal of oils and impurities in cleansing products.

Helps create stable, uniform textures in creams and lotions.

Provides light foaming action suitable for gentle daily routines.

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 using daily cleansers for normal to oily skin.
Those with allergies to ethoxylated compounds.
Users of emulsified moisturizers seeking consistent application.
Individuals avoiding synthetic-derived ingredients.
People preferring mild surfactants in sensitive skin routines.
Persons experiencing irritation from non-ionic surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Regarded as safe for use in cosmetics at typical levels by expert reviews.
  • Presents low comedogenic potential, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Trideceth-2

What does Trideceth-2 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse and an emulsifier to blend oils and water for stable formulas.

Is Trideceth-2 safe for sensitive skin?

It has a low irritation profile, making it generally suitable, though patch testing is advised.

Does it clog pores?

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