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C12-14 SEC-PARETH-12.

Valuable / EMULSION STABILISING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

C12-14 SEC-PARETH-12 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier that creates stable formulations while delivering a silky, non-tacky skin feel. Its secondary alcohol structure provides superior wetting properties and enhanced stability compared to conventional ethoxylated emulsifiers. This versatile ingredient excels at solubilizing oils and fragrances into water-based systems while maintaining gentleness across all skin types.

emulsifying surfactant cleansing texture enhancer

Science

Functions by reducing interfacial tension between water and oil phases, enabling formation of stable emulsions. The ethoxylated secondary alcohol structure provides enhanced wetting capabilities while maintaining low foaming properties, making it particularly effective for stabilizing complex mixtures including silicone elastomers and facilitating sebum absorption.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.5–1.2%
Optimal

0.85%

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated functional effectiveness as emulsifier and texture modifier, particularly in water-dispersible silicone powder systems with enhanced skin feel properties

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

As a functional emulsifier with established optimal concentrations between 0.5-1.2%, this ingredient is typically used at effective levels rather than dusted for marketing purposes.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4.5 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

Demonstrates exceptional salt resistance and pH stability across weak acidic to weak alkaline conditions. Maintains liquid state at room temperature and effectively solubilizes fragrances and oils into aqueous systems.

Synergies

  • silicone elastomers
  • fragrance oils
  • sebum-absorbing powders

Conflicts

  • strong acids
  • strong alkalis

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
7.5%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Evaluated by CIR Expert Panel as part of Alkyl PEG Ethers assessment. Considered safe for cosmetic application when formulated to minimize irritation potential.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

A well-tolerated, multifunctional emulsifier that enhances product stability and skin feel while maintaining safety across all skin types.


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