Science
Mechanism of Action
As a surfactant, Octoxynol-30 effectively lowers the interfacial tension between substances like oil and water. This action enables the formation of stable emulsions, crucial for blending ingredients that would otherwise separate. Furthermore, it acts as a solubilizing agent, enhancing the dispersion of poorly soluble compounds into solvents, and as a cleansing agent, it aids in lifting and removing oil and dirt from surfaces during washing.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Octoxynol-30 is commonly supplied as a 70% solution in water. While an isolated study on enzymatic activity with the related Octoxynol-9 (Triton X-100) observed a pH optimum of 7.8, this is not directly indicative of Octoxynol-30's stability in typical cosmetic formulations.
Conflicts
- Strong oxidizing agents (potentially, based on observations with Octoxynol-9)
- Formulations should minimize trace amounts of synthesis impurities, specifically ethylene oxide, 1,4-dioxane, and unreacted C9 phenols.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that long-chain octoxynols, including Octoxynol-30, are safe as used in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating. General cosmetic use concentrations for various octoxynols span a range from 0.0008% to 25%, with the majority typically below 5.0%. Notably, Octoxynol-30, along with other octoxynols, is approved by the FDA for various indirect food contact applications. No specific SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety) opinion for Octoxynol-30 was found.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Octoxynol-30 is a valuable functional ingredient due to its potent surfactant properties, safely utilized in formulations at concentrations up to 25% when properly engineered to be non-irritating.
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References
Sources