Trideceth-6

What is Trideceth-6?

Trideceth-6 is a synthetic non-ionic surfactant created by ethoxylating tridecyl alcohol with six ethylene oxide units. It falls under alcohol ethoxylate compounds commonly incorporated into rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, lotions, and creams. In formulations, it works by decreasing surface tension to lift away dirt, oils, and impurities while enabling the formation of lather in cleansing products. As an emulsifier, it forms a protective layer at the oil-water interface, promoting uniform blending and preventing phase separation for smoother, more stable textures. Its gentle profile supports broad use in daily hygiene and moisturizing items.

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 dirt and oil removal through surface tension reduction.

Stabilizes oil-in-water mixtures for consistent product feel.

Promotes foaming action in washes and shampoos.

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 needing mild surfactant action.
People with rare allergies to alcohol ethoxylates.
Individuals formulating or using lotions and creams for emulsion stability.
Individuals preferring products without ethoxylated compounds.
Those prioritizing non-comedogenic ingredients in routines.
Those experiencing irritation from similar non-ionic surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard with minimal concerns for typical use.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to contribute to pore blockages.

Frequently Asked Questions about Trideceth-6

What does Trideceth-6 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse and foam, and as an emulsifier to blend oils and water stably.

Is Trideceth-6 safe for skin?

It carries a low hazard rating and is suitable for most cosmetic applications.

Will Trideceth-6 clog pores?

It has a comedogenic rating of zero, making it unlikely to block pores.