Ingredient review
MEA-C10-13 Alkyl Benzenesulfonate
INCI: MEA-C10-13 Alkyl Benzenesulfonate
A strong synthetic cleanser that effectively removes dirt and oil but may be drying or irritating for sensitive skin.
In plain English
This is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers foam up and wash away oil, dirt, and makeup. It's a type of surfactant, which means it works by breaking the surface tension between water and oils so they can be rinsed away. Because it's quite strong, it can sometimes strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness or irritation, especially if you have sensitive or dry 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.
Main practical flags: irritation is moderate; clogging risk is low.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- moderate
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
MEA-C10-13 Alkyl Benzenesulfonate can be useful, but watch for some irritation potential.
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 MEA-C10-13 Alkyl Benzenesulfonate.
- 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
moderateCan bother some users, especially with frequent use, damaged skin, or strong companion ingredients.
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
MEA-C10-13 Alkyl Benzenesulfonate is a synthetic anionic surfactant derived from petroleum. It belongs to the alkyl benzene sulfonate family, which are known for their powerful cleansing and foaming abilities. The 'MEA' stands for monoethanolamine, a counterion that helps the surfactant dissolve in water.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, this ingredient reduces the surface tension between water and oily substances on the skin. This allows the product to lift away sebum, makeup, and environmental grime so they can be easily rinsed off with water. Its strong cleansing action makes it effective but also potentially stripping.
Pros
Powerful cleanser
Effectively removes heavy oils, sunscreen, and makeup, leaving skin feeling thoroughly clean.
Rich foam
Produces a dense, luxurious lather that many people associate with a satisfying wash experience.
Cons and cautions
Potential for dryness
Its strong cleansing action can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to tightness, flakiness, or irritation over time.
Not for sensitive skin
May cause stinging, redness, or discomfort for those with compromised or reactive skin barriers.
Best for
- People with oily or combination skin who need a deep cleanse
- Those who prefer a high-foaming, traditional lather in their cleansers
Use caution if
- Individuals with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin
- Anyone looking for a gentle, non-stripping cleanser
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. However, it can be irritating to the skin and eyes, especially with prolonged or frequent use. It is not recommended for leave-on products.
Research notes
Studies on alkyl benzene sulfonates show they are effective cleansers but can cause skin irritation and barrier disruption at high concentrations. Most safety data comes from industrial and household cleaning contexts, with cosmetic-specific studies being limited.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–15% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions, with concentration limits typically set for rinse-off products.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos
- Environmental note
- Alkyl benzene sulfonates can be slow to biodegrade in some conditions, raising concerns about aquatic toxicity. However, modern formulations often use lower concentrations or blend with milder surfactants.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in products labeled 'clarifying' or 'deep cleansing'.
- It is not typically used in sulfate-free formulations.
Common questions
What is MEA-C10-13 Alkyl Benzenesulfonate in beauty products?
This is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers foam up and wash away oil, dirt, and makeup. It's a type of surfactant, which means it works by breaking the surface tension between water and oils so they can be rinsed away. Because it's quite strong, it can sometimes strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness or irritation, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin.
What does MEA-C10-13 Alkyl Benzenesulfonate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, this ingredient reduces the surface tension between water and oily substances on the skin. This allows the product to lift away sebum, makeup, and environmental grime so they can be easily rinsed off with water. Its strong cleansing action makes it effective but also potentially stripping.
Is MEA-C10-13 Alkyl Benzenesulfonate safe for most people?
Generally considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. However, it can be irritating to the skin and eyes, especially with prolonged or frequent use. It is not recommended for leave-on products.
Who should be careful with MEA-C10-13 Alkyl Benzenesulfonate?
Individuals with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin Anyone looking for a gentle, non-stripping cleanser
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.