Trideceth-5
What is Trideceth-5?
Trideceth-5 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant produced by reacting tridecyl alcohol, derived from tridecane (a C13 hydrocarbon), with five units of ethylene oxide. This ethoxylation process creates a hydrophilic head and lipophilic tail, enabling it to reduce surface tension between oil and water. Commonly found in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and some leave-on emulsions such as lotions and creams. As a surfactant, it facilitates dirt and oil removal during cleansing by forming micelles that encapsulate impurities. Its emulsifying properties help blend water and oil phases, ensuring product stability and smooth texture. With a low degree of ethoxylation (5 moles), it offers milder behavior compared to harsher surfactants, contributing to gentle foaming and rinsing in formulations designed for daily use.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Benefits
Provides effective cleansing by removing dirt and excess oils without stripping skin.
Stabilizes emulsions for consistent texture in lotions and creams.
Supports mild foaming action suitable for shampoos and body 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 gentle daily cleansers for face and body. | Those with known sensitivity to ethoxylated surfactants. |
| Users of emulsified products like moisturizers needing stable formulas. | Individuals experiencing irritation from similar nonionic surfactants. |
| People preferring non-comedogenic ingredients in their routines. | People preferring completely natural or preservative-free products. |
Safety Notes
- Rated low hazard by major cosmetic safety databases.
- Generally recognized as safe for use in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics.
Frequently Asked Questions about Trideceth-5
What does Trideceth-5 do in products?
It acts as a surfactant to cleanse and an emulsifier to mix oil and water phases stably.
Is Trideceth-5 safe for sensitive skin?
It has a low safety concern rating and mild profile in cosmetic use.
Does Trideceth-5 clog pores?
It carries a non-comedogenic rating of zero.