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Moumoujus

C12-15 PARETH-12 CARBOXYLIC ACID.

Valuable / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

A hybrid anionic-nonionic surfactant that combines the mildness of PEG chains with the pH-stable cleansing power of carboxylic acids. This alkyl ether carboxylic acid maintains effective cleansing performance across a broader pH range than traditional soaps, making it particularly valuable in gentle formulations.

Summary

cleansing surfactant emulsion stabilizer solubilizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

Functions as a dual-action surfactant through its 12-unit ethylene oxide chain that provides mildness and water solubility, while the carboxylic acid head group reduces surface tension for cleansing and remains active even at lower pH levels (5-6) where traditional soaps fail.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.2–3%
Optimal

1%

Key findings

  1. 01 Human Repeat Insult Patch Tests at 5-15% showed zero sensitization events
  2. 02 Primary irritation studies at 50% concentration demonstrated minimal skin irritation
  3. 03 Fragrance solubilization efficacy confirmed at 0.2-1.0% concentrations

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
3%
Red flag below
5%

Rarely overused due to its specific surfactant function and CIR-established maximum safe concentration of 3%

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 9.5
0 7 14

Stability

Exceptionally stable across wide pH range and resistant to electrolyte interference, maintaining performance in acidic conditions unlike conventional fatty acid soaps

Synergies

  • Nonionic surfactants for enhanced mildness
  • Low-pH active ingredients
  • Fragrance oils for solubilization

Conflicts

  • Highly cationic ingredients at elevated pH
  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
3%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Evaluated within the Alkyl PEG Ether Carboxylic Acid group with established safety profile when formulated to minimize irritation

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A well-researched, mild surfactant that excels in pH-flexible formulations requiring gentle yet effective cleansing.

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