C12-15 Pareth-5
AKA “C12-15 alcohol ethoxylate, alcohol 5 EO
Surfactant
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.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR