Trideceth-7 Carboxylic Acid

What is Trideceth-7 Carboxylic Acid?

Trideceth-7 Carboxylic Acid is an anionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating tridecyl alcohol with seven ethylene oxide units, followed by carboxylation to add a carboxylic acid group. This structure balances hydrophobic alkyl chain and hydrophilic polyether-carboxylate head, enabling effective interaction with water and oils. Commonly used in rinse-off products like facial cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and bubble baths, it lowers surface tension to solubilize sebum, dirt, and residues. The carboxylate moiety enhances mildness over harsher anionics, reducing potential for barrier disruption while supporting foam stability and rinseability in formulations. Its pH-dependent ionization allows adaptability in acidic to neutral systems, aiding mild personal care applications.

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.
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.
Foaming
Generates foam during use to help distribute the product and lift soils; typically delivered by surfactants that create stable bubbles under agitation.

Benefits

Delivers soft, creamy lather that spreads evenly during washing.

Enables thorough removal of impurities with minimal residue.

Contributes to stable, non-drying cleanse in 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 seeking gentle, foaming cleansers for face and body.
Those with allergies to polyethylene glycol derivatives.
Users preferring mild alternatives in shampoos and washes.
Individuals sensitive to any synthetic surfactants.
People with normal to sensitive skin needing effective rinse-off products.
Users opting for fully non-ethoxylated natural-only formulas.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard in cosmetic use based on safety assessments.
  • Typically non-comedogenic and suitable for most skin types.

Frequently Asked Questions about Trideceth-7 Carboxylic Acid

What does Trideceth-7 Carboxylic Acid do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to create foam, cleanse impurities, and emulsify oils for easy rinsing.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its mild profile makes it appropriate for sensitive skin in many cleansers.

Does it clog pores?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low pore-clogging potential.