Ingredient review
C14-15 Pareth-13
INCI: C14-15 PARETH-13
A mild synthetic emulsifier that helps mix oil and water in cleansers and lotions, generally well-tolerated.
In plain English
C14-15 Pareth-13 is a man-made ingredient that helps oil and water blend together in products like face washes and lotions. It belongs to a family of mild surfactants (cleansing agents) that are less likely to strip your skin's natural moisture barrier compared to harsher soaps. Think of it as a gentle bridge between oil and water, making your cleanser effective without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry.
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
C14-15 Pareth-13 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 C14-15 Pareth-13.
- 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 synthetic polyethylene glycol ether of a mixture of synthetic C14-15 fatty alcohols. It is a non-ionic surfactant, meaning it doesn't carry an electric charge, which contributes to its mildness.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. In cleansers, it helps lift dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin so they can be rinsed away. In creams and lotions, it helps keep the formula smooth and consistent.
Pros
Gentle on skin
As a non-ionic surfactant, it is less likely to disrupt the skin's natural moisture barrier compared to harsher anionic surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate.
Versatile formulator
It works well in both rinse-off and leave-on products, helping to create stable, smooth textures in cleansers, lotions, and creams.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is derived from petrochemicals, which may be a concern for those seeking natural or 'clean' beauty products.
Potential for irritation
Although generally mild, high concentrations or prolonged contact may cause slight irritation in very sensitive or compromised skin.
Best for
- People with normal to combination skin looking for a gentle cleanser
- Anyone using emulsified creams or lotions who wants a stable texture
Use caution if
- Individuals with known sensitivity to PEG compounds or synthetic surfactants
Usage tips
Safety summary
C14-15 Pareth-13 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It is a mild surfactant with low irritation and comedogenic potential. Those with extreme sensitivity to synthetic ingredients may wish to patch test.
Research notes
The safety of pareth-type surfactants has been evaluated by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel, which concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating. Individual studies on C14-15 Pareth-13 specifically are limited, but the class is well-studied.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1-10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar pareth compounds and found them safe for use in rinse-off and leave-on products at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Emulsions
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, it is not biodegradable in all conditions. However, its low toxicity to aquatic life is considered acceptable at typical cosmetic use levels.
Good to know
- C14-15 Pareth-13 is part of a larger family of 'pareth' surfactants, which are known for their mildness.
- It is often used in combination with other surfactants to fine-tune foam and cleansing properties.
Common questions
What is C14-15 Pareth-13 in beauty products?
C14-15 Pareth-13 is a man-made ingredient that helps oil and water blend together in products like face washes and lotions. It belongs to a family of mild surfactants (cleansing agents) that are less likely to strip your skin's natural moisture barrier compared to harsher soaps. Think of it as a gentle bridge between oil and water, making your cleanser effective without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry.
What does C14-15 Pareth-13 do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable emulsion. In cleansers, it helps lift dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin so they can be rinsed away. In creams and lotions, it helps keep the formula smooth and consistent.
Is C14-15 Pareth-13 safe for most people?
C14-15 Pareth-13 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It is a mild surfactant with low irritation and comedogenic potential. Those with extreme sensitivity to synthetic ingredients may wish to patch test.
Who should be careful with C14-15 Pareth-13?
Individuals with known sensitivity to PEG compounds or synthetic surfactants
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.