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C12-14 PARETH-3.

Valuable CAS 68439-50-9 (generic) / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

A non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier that creates stable oil-water mixtures while enhancing the penetration of other skincare ingredients. This ethoxylated alcohol derivative works by reducing surface tension between different phases in formulations. Its dual functionality as both an emulsion stabilizer and penetration enhancer makes it valuable in complex skincare formulations.

Emulsifying Surfactant/cleansing Emulsion stabilizing Penetration enhancer

Science

Functions as a non-ionic surfactant that reduces interfacial tension between oil and water phases to create stable emulsions. Additionally acts as a penetration enhancer by temporarily modifying the lipid bilayer structure of the stratum corneum, facilitating improved absorption of accompanying active ingredients.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–5%
Optimal

3%

Key findings

  1. 01 Cosmetic Ingredient Review evaluation confirmed safety for leave-on applications when properly formulated to minimize irritation potential

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

As a functional surfactant and emulsifier, this ingredient serves essential formulation purposes rather than being used for marketing appeal


The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 11
0 7 14

Stability

Demonstrates excellent stability across wide pH range (3-11) due to non-ionic structure. Maintains functionality in hard water conditions and standard temperature ranges.

Synergies

  • Other non-ionic emulsifiers
  • Active ingredients requiring penetration enhancement

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Anionic surfactants at specific ratios
  • Strong acids at elevated temperatures

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
5%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

FDA recommends maintaining 1,4-dioxane impurity levels below 1 ppm through vacuum stripping processes. Category 2 eye irritant in undiluted form but safe at cosmetic use concentrations.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

A reliable multifunctional ingredient that effectively stabilizes formulations while enhancing active ingredient delivery with minimal irritation risk.


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