Ingredient review
Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate
INCI: Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate
A gentle, effective cleanser that removes dirt and oil without stripping the skin, making it a good alternative to harsher sulfates.
In plain English
This is a synthetic cleaning ingredient that helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. It is known for being milder than traditional sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate, so it cleans without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry. You'll find it in many gentle face washes and body 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 C14-17 Alkyl Sec 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 C14-17 Alkyl Sec 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 secondary alkane sulfonate surfactant derived from petroleum or synthetic sources. It is a member of the sulfonate family, known for its excellent foaming and cleansing properties with low irritation potential.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing the product to lift away sebum, makeup, and impurities from the skin. Its molecular structure makes it less penetrating into the skin barrier, which reduces irritation compared to primary sulfates.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Its large molecular structure means it stays on the surface and doesn't penetrate deeply, reducing the risk of irritation and dryness.
Great foam quality
Produces a rich, creamy lather that feels luxurious and helps spread the product evenly across the skin.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Derived from petroleum, which may not align with preferences for natural or plant-based ingredients.
Potential for slight dryness
While milder than many sulfates, it can still strip some natural oils if used in high concentrations or on very sensitive skin.
Best for
- People with normal to combination skin who want a gentle cleanser
- Those looking for a sulfate-free alternative that still foams well
Use caution if
- Individuals with extremely dry or damaged skin barriers may prefer non-foaming cleansers
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and sensitization potential based on industry safety assessments and dermatological testing.
Research notes
Multiple safety reviews by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that secondary alkane sulfonates are safe when formulated to be non-irritating. Human patch tests show low irritation rates compared to primary sulfates.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–15% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide, including by the EU CosIng database and the US FDA as a safe surfactant at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Shower gels
- Environmental note
- Biodegradable, but derived from non-renewable petroleum sources. Some manufacturers are exploring bio-based alternatives.
Good to know
- Often labeled as 'sulfate-free' because it is a sulfonate, not a sulfate, though both are synthetic cleansers.
- Biodegradable under standard wastewater treatment conditions.
Common questions
What is Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate in beauty products?
This is a synthetic cleaning ingredient that helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. It is known for being milder than traditional sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate, so it cleans without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry. You'll find it in many gentle face washes and body cleansers.
What does Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing the product to lift away sebum, makeup, and impurities from the skin. Its molecular structure makes it less penetrating into the skin barrier, which reduces irritation compared to primary sulfates.
Is Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and sensitization potential based on industry safety assessments and dermatological testing.
Who should be careful with Sodium C14-17 Alkyl Sec Sulfonate?
Individuals with extremely dry or damaged skin barriers may prefer non-foaming 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.