C12-15 Pareth-3
INCI: C12-15 PARETH-3
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
A surfactant that stabilises oil and water-based ingredients in formulations
Best For Skin Types
All
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is C12-15 Pareth-3?
C12-15 Pareth-3 is a synthetic emulsifier derived from fatty alcohols and ethylene oxide. It belongs to a class of ingredients known as surfactants, which have one end that attracts water and another that attracts oils. This dual nature allows it to blend incompatible ingredients together, creating stable, uniform formulations.
In skincare products, C12-15 Pareth-3 works behind the scenes to keep oils and water from separating. It's particularly common in creams, serums and lightweight lotions where a smooth texture and even consistency are important.
How It Works
C12-15 Pareth-3 functions as an emulsifier by positioning itself at the boundary between oil and water phases. Its molecular structure allows it to surround tiny oil droplets with a water-compatible shell, preventing them from clumping together. This keeps the formula homogeneous and prevents the visible separation you might see in an unmixed vinaigrette.
The ingredient doesn't penetrate skin or deliver active benefits itself; its role is entirely structural, ensuring the product remains stable and applies evenly from first use to the last.
Clinical Evidence & References
Research on surfactants suggests that different types cause varying degrees of skin irritation when tested in isolation at high concentrations. In one study, sodium C12-15 pareth sulfate (a related surfactant) produced moderate irritation at 5% concentration, though this is considerably higher than typical usage levels in finished skincare products.
C12-15 Pareth-3 itself has not been extensively studied in isolation in published clinical literature. Safety assessments suggest that when used at the low concentrations typical in cosmetic formulations and when the final product is formulated to be non-irritating, it is well-tolerated. Individual tolerance may vary, particularly for those with sensitive or compromised skin.
How to Use
C12-15 Pareth-3 is a functional ingredient present in the finished product; you don't need to do anything differently when using a product containing it. Simply apply your skincare as directed. If you have very sensitive skin or are prone to irritant reactions, patch test new products first to ensure tolerance, though emulsifier-related irritation is relatively uncommon at typical usage concentrations.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Take the skin quizOther forms of C12-15 Pareth-3
These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. C12-15 Pareth-3 is the common form.
Related Ingredients
C12-15 Pareth-12
A synthetic emulsifier that helps blend water and oil in skincare formulations
C12-14 Pareth-12
A non-ionic emulsifier that stabilises oil and water in skincare formulations
C12-14 Pareth-3
A synthetic emulsifier and surfactant that helps blend oil and water in formulations
C12-16 Alcohols
A mixture of fatty alcohols with 12 to 16 carbons in the alkyl chain
C12-16 Pareth-9
A synthetic emulsifier that helps blend water and oil-based ingredients in formulations
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
A plant-derived surfactant that cleanses and stabilises formulations
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