C12-14 Pareth-3

C12-14 Pareth-3 is a synthetic emulsifier derived from pareth compounds, which are created by combining fatty alcohols with ethylene oxide. It belongs to the surfactant family—ingredients that reduce surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix together.In skincare formulations, it serves primarily as an emulsifying agent, helping to stabilise creams, lotions and other products where water and oil-based ingredients need to coexist. It also functions as a mild surfactant, which contributes to the texture and consistency of the final product.

C12-14 Pareth-3 works by positioning itself at the boundary between oil and water molecules. Its molecular structure has both water-loving and oil-loving ends, which allows it to hold these two typically incompatible substances in a stable suspension. This prevents the product from separating into layers over time.As a mild surfactant, it can also help with the spreadability and absorption characteristics of a product, though its primary role in skincare is stabilisation rather than cleansing.

As this is a formulation ingredient rather than an active, there are no specific usage guidelines for consumers. It will be present in your product as part of the complete formula. If you are using a product containing this ingredient and experience unexpected irritation, discontinue use and patch test on a small area before resuming.

C12-14 Pareth-3 is generally well-tolerated in cosmetic formulations. Some individuals may experience mild transient irritation with prolonged or concentrated exposure, though this is rare in finished skincare products.