Ingredient dictionary

Trideceth-12

Trideceth-12 is a nonionic surfactant made from a synthetic alcohol and ethylene oxide, mainly used to help oil and water blend and rinse clean. It is on the label of 6 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What Trideceth-12 does

Helps oil and water blend together
Supports a clean, even rinse
Helps spread fragrance and oils evenly

Trideceth-12 is made by reacting a synthetic branched alcohol, tridecyl alcohol, with ethylene oxide. The 12 refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units on each molecule. This gives it a water-loving end and an oil-loving end, so it helps water and oil mix.

Formulators like it because it is nonionic, so it carries no electrical charge. That makes it stable next to many other ingredients and less affected by pH or salts than charged surfactants. It helps oils and fragrance disperse in water, so products rinse clean without heavy residue.

Good for

Suits everyday shampoos, conditioners and styling products, and people who like light, easy-to-rinse formulas.

Frequently asked questions

Is Trideceth-12 safe for skin?

Trideceth-12 is commonly used in rinse-off and leave-on products and is generally well tolerated. Like most cleansing agents, it can feel drying or irritate sensitive skin if used often. Patch testing new products is a good habit if your skin is sensitive.

Does Trideceth-12 cause buildup in hair?

Trideceth-12 is water-soluble, so it generally rinses out easily. Buildup usually comes from heavy oils, waxes or silicones in a product rather than from this ingredient alone. If your hair feels coated, a thorough rinse or an occasional clarifying shampoo can help.