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Ingredient directory

Decyl Glucoside

A plant-derived, non-ionic surfactant celebrated for its exceptional mildness and biodegradable profile. It provides effective cleansing without the protein-denaturing effects common in traditional sulfates, maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier.

Directory entry · Individual source review pending

This profile is awaiting an individual source review. Treat its ratings, dose estimates and compatibility labels as provisional; they are not medical advice or proof of a finished product’s effects.

surfactant cleansing agent emulsion stabilizer foaming agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

As an alkyl polyglucoside, it reduces the surface tension between the skin and environmental impurities, allowing oils and dirt to be emulsified and rinsed away. Its molecular structure allows it to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions while simultaneously providing a mild hydrating effect that prevents post-cleansing xerosis.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–33%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 A CIR Expert Panel evaluation confirmed that concentrations between 0.5% and 2.0% were at most slightly irritating in epicutaneous and soap chamber tests.
  2. 02 A 5% concentration study on baby bath products identified only slight ocular irritation, significantly lower than many other surfactant classes.
  3. 03 Sensitization trials at 5% concentration showed zero reactive potential, confirming its suitability for reactive skin.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.5%

Decyl Glucoside is rarely 'dusted' because it is a primary or secondary functional cleanser; however, levels below 0.5% in a rinse-off product are likely insufficient for effective surfactant action.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

While a 10% solution naturally maintains a pH of 7.0–9.5, the molecule remains stable in low pH formulations often required for acid-based cleansers.

Synergies

  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine
  • Glycerin
  • Lauryl Glucoside

Conflicts

  • Concentrations above 5% in leave-on emulsions can destabilize cream bases by competing with primary emulsifiers.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
33%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Safe for use in concentrations up to 33% in rinse-off products provided the final formulation is tested for irritation. Rare cases of contact allergy have been documented in extremely sensitized individuals.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An elite, non-stripping cleanser that balances high-performance purification with a superior safety profile for sensitive skin.

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References

Sources

Keep exploring

From ingredients to everyday care.

Sensitive skin ↗

Start with comfort, product choices and the questions to ask.

Barrier support ↗

Understand moisture, lipids and the limits of ingredient claims.

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