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AMMONIUM DODECYLBENZENESULFONATE.

Optional CAS 1331-61-9 / CLEANSING, FOAMING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

An anionic surfactant used primarily in rinse-off cleansing products. It effectively emulsifies oils and debris, making it a strong cleansing and foaming agent.

surfactant cleansing foaming

Science

This ingredient reduces water's surface tension due to its amphiphilic structure, enveloping oily impurities for easy rinsing. At higher concentrations, it can disrupt skin barrier lipids.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Amended Safety Assessment (2009)
  2. 02 International Journal of Toxicology (2010)

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

This ingredient functions as a rinse-off cleansing and foaming agent, where 'dusting' in leave-on formulations is not a relevant concern for efficacy or safety.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Stability and viscosity improve as pH increases towards neutral. High pH might impact skin compatibility, and thermal decomposition can cause pH drift in aqueous solutions.

Conflicts

  • Cationic surfactants
  • Strongly acidic environments
  • High electrolyte/salt concentrations

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Moderate

The CIR Expert Panel found it safe when formulated to be nonirritating, with irritation being concentration- and pH-dependent. Related salts have been used up to 3%.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Medium
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Optional

A functional cleansing agent best utilized in rinse-off formulations, requiring careful concentration and pH control to minimize its moderate irritancy potential.


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