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Moumoujus

C12-15 PARETH-5.

Valuable CAS 68131-39-5 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

A versatile nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from a blend of C12-15 fatty alcohols. It is primarily utilized to bridge the gap between oil and water phases, ensuring skincare formulations remain stable, uniform, and aesthetically pleasing.

Summary

emulsifying surfactant cleansing solubilizing

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions through a dual-nature molecular structure: a hydrophobic carbon chain (C12-15) that anchors to oils and impurities, and a hydrophilic PEG-5 head that binds to water. By lowering surface tension, it facilitates the formation of micelles that encapsulate debris for removal or stabilize delicate oil-in-water emulsions.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.3–5%
Optimal

1%

Key findings

  1. 01 Evaluated as the standard maximum concentration for leave-on applications, confirming safety and lack of irritation when properly formulated.
  2. 02 Demonstrated high efficiency as a cleansing agent and emulsifier in rinse-off personal care products without compromising skin barrier integrity.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.3%
Red flag below
0.1%

As a functional emulsifier rather than an active, it is rarely 'dusted' for marketing claims. However, in leave-on products, concentrations below 0.3% may indicate it is only used as a solubilizer for fragrance or minor additives.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 12
0 7 14

Stability

Highly stable across a broad pH spectrum, including acidic and dilute alkaline environments. With an HLB value of 10.5, it is an effective oil-in-water (O/W) emulsifier, though it may produce a cloudy appearance in pure water due to its specific lipophilic balance.

Synergies

  • Sunscreen filters
  • Mineral oils
  • Essential oils

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
10%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Quality control is essential to ensure 1,4-dioxane residues from the ethoxylation process remain below 10 ppm.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A reliable and safe formulation workhorse that ensures the structural integrity and cleansing efficacy of modern skincare.

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