Ingredient review
C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate
INCI: C12-13 PARETH-2 PHOSPHATE
A mild synthetic surfactant that helps cleansers foam and rinse cleanly without stripping the skin.
In plain English
This ingredient is a synthetic helper that allows oil and water to mix in your cleanser or lotion. It creates a gentle foam and helps rinse away dirt and makeup without leaving a greasy film. It's considered very mild and is often used in formulas for sensitive skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A phosphate ester of a synthetic fatty alcohol ethoxylate, designed to be a mild cleansing agent and emulsifier.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable cream or lotion. In cleansers, it helps lift dirt and oil from the skin so they can be rinsed away easily.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Unlike harsher sulfates, this surfactant cleans effectively without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Versatile formulator
Works well in both rinse-off cleansers and leave-on creams, making it a common ingredient in many skincare products.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is made from petrochemicals, which may be a concern for those seeking fully natural or plant-based formulations.
Potential for slight dryness
In high concentrations or without supporting moisturizers, it can still cause mild dryness for very sensitive skin types.
Best for
- People with normal to combination skin looking for a gentle cleanser
- Those who prefer sulfate-free cleansing options
Use caution if
- Individuals with very dry or compromised skin barriers who may need even milder cleansers
Usage tips
Safety summary
C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types.
Research notes
Safety assessments by industry panels and regulatory bodies support its use as a mild surfactant. No significant human health concerns have been identified in cosmetic applications.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Facial washes, Emulsions, Shampoos
- Environmental note
- Synthetic but generally biodegradable. Environmental impact is low when used in typical rinse-off products.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in sulfate-free cleansers
- It is considered biodegradable and safe for aquatic environments at typical use levels
Common questions
What is C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a synthetic helper that allows oil and water to mix in your cleanser or lotion. It creates a gentle foam and helps rinse away dirt and makeup without leaving a greasy film. It's considered very mild and is often used in formulas for sensitive skin.
What does C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable cream or lotion. In cleansers, it helps lift dirt and oil from the skin so they can be rinsed away easily.
Is C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate safe for most people?
C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types.
Who should be careful with C12-13 Pareth-2 Phosphate?
Individuals with very dry or compromised skin barriers who may need even milder cleansers
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.