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DINONOXYNOL-9 CITRATE.

Avoid CAS - / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Dinonoxynol-9 Citrate is a nonionic surfactant, with its core component Nonoxynol-9 primarily recognized for its spermicidal action. In cosmetic formulations, it functions as a cleansing and emulsifying agent. Its mechanism involves non-selectively disrupting cellular membranes, which can lead to cell lysis.

Summary

surfactant - cleansing surfactant - emulsifying

Science

Mechanism of Action

The primary mechanism of Dinonoxynol-9 Citrate, attributed to its Nonoxynol-9 core, involves its role as a nonionic surfactant. It interacts with and disrupts the lipid components of cellular membranes, causing them to lyse (rupture). This leads to the leakage of intracellular contents and ultimately cell death, a process which is not exclusively selective and can impact various cell types and microorganisms.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 A 2% solution of Nonoxynol-8.3 and -9 demonstrated sensitizing potential in patients with dermatitis, suggesting a risk for allergic reactions or heightened skin sensitivity.
  2. 02 Clinical investigations involving Nonoxynol-9 revealed irritation of mucous membranes and increased epithelial disruption, indicating its capacity to compromise tissue integrity.
  3. 03 Long-term, dose-dependent use of nonoxynol-9 led to shifts in vaginal flora, including an increase in anaerobic gram-negative rods and bacterial vaginosis, although most users experienced minimal overall disruption.
  4. 04 An intravaginal gel containing 52.5 mg of nonoxynol-9 was associated with a significantly higher incidence of gonorrhea in a clinical trial, potentially due to the ingredient's membrane-disrupting action increasing susceptibility to infection.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

There is no available data to indicate that Dinonoxynol-9 Citrate is commonly 'dusted' or used at concentrations that pose a specific dusting risk in typical skincare formulations.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Conflicts

  • Oil-based lubricants (e.g., petroleum jelly, cooking oils, certain face or body creams) should be avoided with products containing Nonoxynol-9 if used in conjunction with latex contraceptives (condoms, cervical caps), as they can weaken or break the latex material. Water-based lubricants are recommended in such scenarios.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used (with caveats)
Sensitization risk High

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that Nonoxynols-9 and similar variants are safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating. However, the FDA has issued warnings that Nonoxynol-9, when used as a spermicide, offers no protection against HIV/AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases and may increase the risk of transmission due to its potential to cause vaginal or rectal irritation. Although a specific maximum safe concentration for Dinonoxynol-9 Citrate in general leave-on skincare is not provided by CIR, sensitization was observed at 2% in dermatitis patients. The inherent membrane-disrupting mechanism warrants caution for maintaining skin barrier integrity.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Due to demonstrated high irritancy and sensitization risks in clinical data, its non-selective membrane-disrupting mechanism, and the absence of specific positive skincare benefits, Dinonoxynol-9 Citrate is not recommended for use in precision skincare formulations.

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