Ingredient review
Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate
INCI: Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate
A gentle, sulfate-free surfactant that effectively cleanses without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
In plain English
Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate is a cleansing ingredient made from petroleum or plant-derived fatty acids. It helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. Unlike harsher sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate, it is considered milder and less likely to cause dryness or irritation, making it a popular choice for sensitive skin and gentle cleansers.
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
Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate 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 Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate.
- 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 surfactant belonging to the alkane sulfonate family, produced by sulfonation of C13-17 alkanes (medium-chain hydrocarbons). It functions as a primary or secondary cleansing agent in rinse-off formulations.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing oils, dirt, and makeup to be emulsified and washed away. Its molecular structure creates stable foam and provides a creamy lather, while its mildness helps preserve the skin's natural lipid barrier.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Compared to traditional sulfates like SLS, this surfactant is much milder and less likely to cause irritation or strip natural oils, making it ideal for daily use.
Good foam quality
It produces a rich, creamy lather that feels pleasant during cleansing, which can improve the user experience without compromising gentleness.
Cons and cautions
Potential for slight dryness
In high concentrations or in formulations without sufficient moisturizing ingredients, it may still cause some dryness, especially for very dry or compromised skin.
Not suitable for all product types
As a water-soluble surfactant, it cannot be used in anhydrous (water-free) products like cleansing oils or balms.
Best for
- People with normal to dry or sensitive skin looking for a gentle cleanser
- Those seeking sulfate-free alternatives in shampoos and body washes
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to sulfonates (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate is considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential, supported by safety assessments from cosmetic ingredient review panels.
Research notes
Studies indicate that alkane sulfonates are mild surfactants with good foaming properties. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar sulfonates and found them safe for cosmetic use when formulated appropriately.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and EU CosIng database. No concentration restrictions for rinse-off products.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Shower gels
- Environmental note
- Biodegradable under aerobic conditions, but its environmental impact depends on manufacturing processes and wastewater treatment.
Good to know
- Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate is often used in 'sulfate-free' formulas, but it is still a synthetic surfactant.
- It is biodegradable and can be derived from plant-based sources, though most commercial versions are petrochemical-derived.
Common questions
What is Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate in beauty products?
Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate is a cleansing ingredient made from petroleum or plant-derived fatty acids. It helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. Unlike harsher sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate, it is considered milder and less likely to cause dryness or irritation, making it a popular choice for sensitive skin and gentle cleansers.
What does Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing oils, dirt, and makeup to be emulsified and washed away. Its molecular structure creates stable foam and provides a creamy lather, while its mildness helps preserve the skin's natural lipid barrier.
Is Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate safe for most people?
Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate is considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential, supported by safety assessments from cosmetic ingredient review panels.
Who should be careful with Sodium C13-17 Alkane Sulfonate?
Individuals with known allergies to sulfonates (rare)
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.