Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

SODIUM OCTOXYNOL-2 SULFATE.

Valuable CAS 12627-38-2 / CLEANSING, FOAMING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

Sodium Octoxynol-2 Sulfate is a surfactant primarily functioning as a cleansing and emulsifying agent in cosmetic formulations. It reduces surface tension to facilitate the mixing of immiscible substances like oil and water, aiding in the removal of dirt and impurities. Its application is carefully regulated due to specific safety considerations.

Summary

surfactant emulsifying agent cleansing agent solubilizing agent hydrotrope

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a surfactant, Sodium Octoxynol-2 Sulfate lowers the surface tension between different phases, enabling the formation of stable emulsions. In cleansing formulations, it effectively binds to oily residues and dirt, allowing them to be dispersed in water and easily rinsed away. While specific to longer-chain octoxynols, related compounds also exhibit solubilizing properties, helping other ingredients dissolve within a solvent system.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤5%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 In clinical studies, a related ingredient, Octoxynol-9, was classified as moderately irritating at a 2% concentration in a 24-hour occlusive patch test, but as a nonirritant at 1% when patch tested over 4 consecutive days.
  2. 02 Sodium Octoxynol-2 Sulfate is considered safe for use in leave-on products at concentrations of 5% or less, reflecting an optimal balance between functional efficacy and safety, particularly due to concerns about potential skin sensitization and absorption of short-chain octoxynols.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
5%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deems Sodium Octoxynol-2 Sulfate safe for rinse-off products and for leave-on products at concentrations not exceeding 5%. This restriction for short-chain octoxynols (8 carbons or less) addresses concerns regarding potential skin sensitization and increased cutaneous absorption compared to longer-chain variants. Historically, the FDA has approved Octoxynols as indirect food additives. It's important to note that trace impurities such as 1,4-dioxane, ethylene oxide, and unreacted C9 phenols may be present as byproducts of synthesis.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Sodium Octoxynol-2 Sulfate is a valuable functional ingredient for cleansing and emulsifying, provided it is used within the established safety limits of 5% or less in leave-on products, given concerns around potential irritation and sensitization.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…