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MYRISTYL/CETYL AMINE OXIDE.

Valuable / CLEANSING, HAIR CONDITIONING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - FOAM BOOSTING, SURFACTANT - HYDROTROPE

MYRISTYL/CETYL AMINE OXIDE is a mild amphoteric surfactant renowned for its effective cleansing capabilities. It works to purify the skin by reducing surface tension, facilitating the gentle removal of oils and particulate matter without inducing excessive dryness or irritation.

Summary

Cleansing Hair Conditioning Surfactant - Cleansing Surfactant - Foam Boosting Surfactant - Hydrotrope Emulsifier Viscosity Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions as an amphoteric surfactant, distinguished by its amphiphilic structure which contains both a polar N→O functional group and a non-polar alkyl chain. This allows it to act as a potent wetting agent, significantly reducing surface tension to enable water to spread more easily and interact effectively with surfaces. Its primary mechanism involves facilitating the removal of particulate and oily contaminants, thereby enhancing the cleansing process. Furthermore, it serves as a foam booster, contributing to a richer and more stable lather, and can function as a viscosity enhancer and emulsifier to improve product texture. In acidic conditions, it can acquire a partially cationic character, offering a conditioning benefit to both skin and hair.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.01–5%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Myristamine Oxide, a closely related C14 amine oxide, is recognized for its mild surfactant action, effectively removing dirt and oils without causing excessive dryness or irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin. This suggests comparable performance for MYRISTYL/CETYL AMINE OXIDE when used in low concentrations, up to 5%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

MYRISTYL/CETYL AMINE OXIDE demonstrates robust stability across a broad pH range, specifically between pH 3 and 10. It also maintains stability in challenging environments such as hard waters, acidic solutions, highly electrolyte systems, and hypochlorite bleaching solutions.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Unknown
Max tested
5%
Sensitization risk Low

Although a specific Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) report, SCCS opinion, or FDA status for MYRISTYL/CETYL AMINE OXIDE has not been identified, related amine oxides like Myristamine Oxide are generally considered safe and non-toxic. This ingredient is characterized by its very low irritation potential and mild nature, making it suitable for use up to concentrations of 5%. It is also environmentally safe and biodegradable.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

MYRISTYL/CETYL AMINE OXIDE is a valuable amphoteric surfactant for skincare formulations, offering effective yet mild cleansing and foam-boosting properties suitable for all skin types, including sensitive.

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