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SODIUM C14-18 OLEFIN SULFONATE.

Valuable / CLEANSING, FOAMING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

An anionic surfactant and robust cleansing agent derived from alpha-olefins, prized for its ability to effectively emulsify oils and impurities. It contributes significantly to foam generation, enhancing the sensory experience of rinse-off products.

Summary

Cleansing Foaming Surfactant - Cleansing Emulsifier

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate and encapsulate oily residues and dirt particles more effectively. This action facilitates their removal upon rinsing. Additionally, it stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions and provides rich, stable foam.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Concentrations exceeding 10% have been observed to induce moderate ocular irritation, while a 5% concentration typically results in mild ocular irritation.
  2. 02 Dermal irritation was predicted at 1% for reagent-grade material in water, and some studies noted dermal irritation at concentrations of 38-40%.
  3. 03 While poorly absorbed through healthy skin, its absorption significantly increases when the skin barrier is compromised.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Sodium C14-18 Olefin Sulfonate is a primary functional ingredient essential for cleansing and emulsification, not typically used as a 'dusted' active. Its concentration is primarily governed by safety guidelines and desired functional performance.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits excellent stability across a broad pH range, making it suitable for a wide array of formulations, including those with acidic components like salicylic acid found in anti-acne treatments.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
2%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The CIR Expert Panel considers Sodium Alpha-Olefin Sulfonates safe when used in rinse-off products, and safe up to 2% in leave-on formulations. Critical to safety are strict limits on gamma sultone impurities: ≤10 ppm for unsubstituted, ≤1 ppm for chlorosultones, and ≤0.1 ppm for unsaturated sultones, as sensitization has been linked to these residues. The FDA has approved its use as an indirect food additive.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Moderate

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A valuable and versatile cleansing and foaming agent, Sodium C14-18 Olefin Sulfonate is highly effective in rinse-off products, but requires careful adherence to concentration limits and impurity controls for safe use in leave-on formulations due to potential irritation and sensitization.

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