Ingredient dictionary

Trideceth-6

Trideceth-6 is a nonionic surfactant made from tridecyl alcohol and ethylene oxide. It helps oil and water blend, lifts dirt away, and helps foam form. It is on the label of 24 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Trideceth-6 does

Blends oil and water into one mix
Helps lift dirt and oil away
Helps foam and lather form

Trideceth-6 is made by reacting tridecyl alcohol, a 13-carbon alcohol, with ethylene oxide. The 6 in its name means that, on average, six ethylene oxide units are attached to each molecule. This gives the molecule a water-loving end and an oily end, which is what makes it a surfactant.

Formulators use it because it is nonionic, meaning it has no electrical charge. That makes it easy to combine with many other ingredients. It helps oil-based ingredients mix into water, supports cleansing and foam, and usually leaves a smooth, lightly slippery feel that rinses clean.

Good for

Suits everyday shampoos, conditioners, cleansers, styling products and leave-in formulas, where it helps blend and cleanse.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is Trideceth-6 a sulfate?

No. Trideceth-6 is not a sulfate. Sulfate cleansers carry a sulfate group, while this ingredient is nonionic and has none. Both can clean, but they differ in charge, feel and how they foam.

Is Trideceth-6 irritating?

Trideceth-6 is generally considered well tolerated in rinse-off products. Still, any ingredient can bother a sensitive person. If your skin or scalp feels itchy or uncomfortable, stop using the product and ask a dermatologist for advice.