C12-13 Aleth-9
Non-ionic surfactant / emulsifier. Functional formulation ingredient with no standalone activity on the skin.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
About this ingredient
C12-13 Aleth-9 is a non-ionic surfactant – a mix of ethoxylated C12-C13 alcohols with an average degree of ethoxylation of 9 (nine ethylene oxide groups). Mechanism. Works as a solubiliser and emulsifier: helps incorporate poorly water-miscible components (oils, essential oils, silicones, UV filters) into the aqueous formula base. Forms micelles carrying hydrophobic molecules. Does not stay on skin – rinses off with water. Where applied. Micellar waters, cleansing toners, shampoos, lotions, shower gels, sunscreen emulsions. Concentration 0.5–5%. In Spain in Bioderma Sensibio H2O, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Water, ISDIN. Safety. CIR confirmed safety of the ethoxylated alcohol family in cosmetics in 2018. Contact allergies and irritation are rare. Non-comedogenic. Topical systemic absorption is low. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Used without restriction. 1,4-Dioxane controversy. Ethoxylated ingredients can theoretically contain trace 1,4-dioxane (an ethoxylation byproduct). Quality producers monitor levels – SCCS and AEMPS limits are respected. Functional role. A formula surfactant aid. No standalone skin activity.
Frequently asked questions
Is C12-13 Aleth-9 safe during pregnancy?
C12-13 Aleth-9 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What is C12-13 Aleth-9 and what does it do in cosmetics?
Non-ionic surfactant / emulsifier.
What's the INCI name for C12-13 Aleth-9?
The INCI name is C12-13 Aleth-9.
See C12-13 Aleth-9 in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
C12-13 Alketh-9, C12-13 Alkyl Lactate, C12-13 Pareth-9, C12-14 Alketh-12, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, MIPA-Laureth Sulfate, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Sorbitan Isostearate
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