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Moumoujus

C10-14 ALKYL BENZENESULFONIC ACID.

Questionable CAS 85117-49-3 / CLEANSING, FOAMING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

A potent anionic surfactant that functions as an intermediate in cosmetic formulations, primarily used to create alkylbenzene sulfonate salts for cleansing applications. This industrial-grade surfactant demonstrates strong cleansing and foaming properties but carries significant irritation potential due to its acidic nature. Its primary role in skincare is limited to rinse-off products where it's neutralized into less irritating salt forms.

Summary

cleansing surfactant foaming

Science

Mechanism of Action

Works by dramatically reducing water's surface tension through its amphiphilic structure, enabling effective emulsification of oils and debris. The molecule disrupts lipid membranes at the cellular level, which accounts for both its cleansing efficacy and its potential to compromise skin barrier function when used in inappropriate concentrations or formulations.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–1%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 USCG/PubChem study demonstrating significant irritation at 0.5-1.0% concentrations in aqueous solutions
  2. 02 ILO-WHO safety assessment classifying technical grade as corrosive to skin and eyes

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Red flag below
0.5%

Not typically used for cosmetic dusting due to its corrosive nature and high irritation potential even at low concentrations

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 7 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits maximum stability in alkaline conditions where it exists as deprotonated salt forms. Acidic environments cause precipitation and reduced solubility.

Conflicts

  • Cationic surfactants
  • Polyvalent metal ions (Calcium, Magnesium)
  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk High

Restricted to use as intermediate in rinse-off formulations. Direct skin contact with acid form can cause irreversible tissue damage.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

A powerful but problematic surfactant with limited cosmetic applications due to its high irritation potential and corrosive nature in acid form.

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References

Sources