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Moumoujus

C12-14 PARETH-5.

Valuable / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

A versatile non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from fatty alcohols and ethylene oxide that excels at bridging oil and water phases in skincare formulations. Known for its exceptional pH stability and gentle cleansing properties, it effectively removes impurities while maintaining skin barrier integrity across all skin types.

Summary

surfactant emulsifier cleansing agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

Works by positioning its lipophilic C12-14 fatty chain toward oils and sebum while its hydrophilic polyethylene glycol chain orients toward water, reducing surface tension between phases. This dual-affinity structure enables efficient emulsification in leave-on products and gentle yet effective cleansing in rinse-off formulations.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–25%
Optimal

3%

Key findings

  1. 01 CIR studies on alkyl PEG ethers showed only 0.25-0.34% sensitization rate at 0.5-3% concentrations
  2. 02 Patch testing at 25% concentration produced negligible to slight irritation in occlusive conditions

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

As a functional surfactant and emulsifier, this ingredient serves essential formulation purposes rather than marketing claims, making dusting uncommon.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 11
0 7 14

Stability

Demonstrates superior oxidation and pH stability compared to other non-ionic surfactants, remaining stable across acidic and alkaline environments due to its non-ionic nature

Synergies

  • silicone-based ingredients
  • cleansing oils
  • moisturizing agents

Conflicts

  • strong oxidizing agents
  • highly concentrated electrolytes

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
15%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Maximum 15% in leave-on products, up to 25% acceptable in rinse-off formulations when formulated to be non-irritating

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A reliable, well-tolerated multifunctional ingredient that provides essential emulsification and gentle cleansing across diverse formulation types.

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