Ingredient review
C14-15 Pareth-7
INCI: C14-15 PARETH-7
A gentle synthetic surfactant that helps cleanse without stripping the skin, but may not suit extremely sensitive skin in high concentrations.
In plain English
C14-15 Pareth-7 is a man-made ingredient that helps water and oil blend together in products like cleansers and shampoos. It works by reducing the surface tension between oil and water, allowing dirt and makeup to be rinsed away easily. It is considered mild and is often used in formulas that aim to clean without leaving 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-7 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-7.
- 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
C14-15 Pareth-7 is a synthetic surfactant made from a fatty alcohol (C14-15 alcohol) reacted with ethylene oxide. It belongs to a class of ingredients called ethoxylates, which are widely used in personal care products for their ability to mix oil and water.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, C14-15 Pareth-7 acts as an emulsifier and surfactant. It surrounds oil droplets and helps them disperse in water, so that oils and dirt can be washed away. It also stabilizes formulas that contain both water and oil phases, preventing separation.
Pros
Mild on skin
Compared to harsher sulfates, C14-15 Pareth-7 is considered gentle and less likely to cause dryness or irritation in most skin types.
Versatile formulator tool
It works well in both rinse-off and leave-on products, helping to create stable emulsions and improve texture.
Cons and cautions
Potential trace impurities
As an ethoxylated ingredient, it may contain trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen. However, reputable manufacturers purify to safe levels set by regulators.
Not ideal for ultra-sensitive skin
Although generally mild, some individuals with very reactive skin may still experience slight irritation, especially in high-concentration formulas.
Best for
- People with normal to combination skin looking for a mild cleanser
- Those who prefer synthetic surfactants over sulfate-based ones
Use caution if
- Individuals with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients or very reactive skin
Usage tips
Safety summary
C14-15 Pareth-7 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Regulatory bodies like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) have evaluated similar ethoxylated alcohols and found them safe when formulated to minimize impurities. Trace 1,4-dioxane is regulated to low levels in finished products.
Research notes
Research on C14-15 Pareth-7 specifically is limited, but the broader class of ethoxylated alcohols has been reviewed by the CIR and found safe for cosmetic use. Studies indicate low skin irritation and sensitization potential at typical use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically 1–10% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The EU CosIng database lists it as a surfactant and emulsifier with no specific restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- Ethoxylated surfactants are generally biodegradable, but their production involves ethylene oxide, which is derived from fossil fuels. Some consumers prefer plant-based alternatives for environmental reasons.
Good to know
- C14-15 Pareth-7 is often used alongside other surfactants to balance cleansing power and mildness.
- The '7' in its name refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units, which influences its water solubility and mildness.
Common questions
What is C14-15 Pareth-7 in beauty products?
C14-15 Pareth-7 is a man-made ingredient that helps water and oil blend together in products like cleansers and shampoos. It works by reducing the surface tension between oil and water, allowing dirt and makeup to be rinsed away easily. It is considered mild and is often used in formulas that aim to clean without leaving skin feeling tight or dry.
What does C14-15 Pareth-7 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, C14-15 Pareth-7 acts as an emulsifier and surfactant. It surrounds oil droplets and helps them disperse in water, so that oils and dirt can be washed away. It also stabilizes formulas that contain both water and oil phases, preventing separation.
Is C14-15 Pareth-7 safe for most people?
C14-15 Pareth-7 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Regulatory bodies like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) have evaluated similar ethoxylated alcohols and found them safe when formulated to minimize impurities. Trace 1,4-dioxane is regulated to low levels in finished products.
Who should be careful with C14-15 Pareth-7?
Individuals with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients or very reactive skin
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.