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Ingredient Facts
C12-15 pareth-5
AKA: C12-15 alcohol ethoxylate, Alcohol 5 EO
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Alcohols, C12-15, ethoxylated (5 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
68131-39-5
Form
Liquid
See origin →
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
Fights Bacteria
Reduces Inflammation
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Synthetic nonionic surfactant developed in the mid-20th century as part of the polyethoxylated alcohol family. Designed to function as a solubilizer and emulsifier in cosmetic and personal care products.