C12-13 Pareth-5
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyoxyethylene alkyl ether
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Not Clean
Alcohols, C12-13, ethoxylated (5 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
66455-14-9
Form
Liquid
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Synthetic nonionic surfactant developed in the mid-20th century for use as a gentle emulsifier and cleansing agent in cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR