C13-15 Pareth-21
AKA “C13-15 alcohol ethoxylate, alcohol 21 EO
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
C13-15 pareth-21
AKA: C13-15 alcohol ethoxylate, Alcohol 21 EO
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Plant Oil
Not Clean
Alcohols, C13-15, ethoxylated (21 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
9002-92-0; 68439-50-9; 5274-68-0; 9004-95-9; 9005-00-9; 4536-30-5; 3055-93-4; 3055-94-5; 3055-95-6
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.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Removes Impurities
Cleansing Surfactant
Traditional Use
Synthetic nonionic surfactant developed in the mid-20th century as part of the polyethoxylated alcohol family. Designed as a potent emulsifier and solubilizer for cosmetic formulations.
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