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Moumoujus

SODIUM SURFACTIN.

Valuable / CLEANSING, GEL FORMING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Sodium surfactin is a naturally derived lipopeptide, produced through the fermentation of Bacillus subtilis. It functions as a powerful biological surfactant, capable of reducing surface tension in formulations. Beyond its surfactant properties, it delivers significant skincare benefits by modulating the skin microbiome and fortifying the skin's natural barrier.

Summary

Surfactant Anti-inflammatory Moisturizer Skin Barrier Support Antimicrobial Anti-acne Anti-aging Penetration Enhancer Cleansing

Science

Mechanism of Action

This lipopeptide operates by reducing surface tension and directly interacting with skin components. On a cellular level, it concentration-dependently diminishes the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as NO and IL-6. It actively balances the skin's microbiome, suppressing harmful bacteria while fostering beneficial microorganisms, thereby mitigating inflammatory responses and excessive sebum production. Its molecular mechanisms involve a cation-carrier, pore-forming, and detergent effect, allowing its fatty acid chain to integrate into the phospholipid layer, thus increasing membrane permeability and enhancing the penetration of other ingredients. Additionally, it exhibits an inhibitory effect on enzymes that degrade collagen.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0–5%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Human application tests showed an alleviating effect on skin dryness, eczema, itching, and erythema, alongside skin barrier strengthening and moisturizing benefits, with no cytotoxicity observed.
  2. 02 In cosmetic formulations at concentrations up to 5%, surfactin (as sodium surfactin) demonstrated antibacterial, anti-acne, anti-wrinkle, moisturizing, and cleansing properties.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Sodium surfactin maintains stability within a pH range of 5 to 7. Its aqueous solubility is optimal at pH 8–8.5, decreasing at lower pH due to carboxyl group protonation. It is soluble in water (at least 10%) but not in organic solvents.

Synergies

  • Improved penetration of other active ingredients

Conflicts

  • Potential for insoluble complex formation or reduced foaming with oppositely charged surfactants (e.g., anionic with cationic surfactants), advising careful consideration of ionic interactions.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

Sodium surfactin is generally well-tolerated with a high safety profile, recognized as safe for cosmetic use by authorities like the European Union. It demonstrates low toxicity and good skin compatibility with minimal irritation. While rare allergic reactions or irritation can occur in sensitive individuals, a preliminary skin test is advisable. No specific CIR, SCCS, or FDA safety assessment reports were available in the provided data.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Sodium surfactin is a valuable multifunctional ingredient, offering comprehensive benefits from microbiome balancing and barrier support to anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties, suitable for a wide range of skin types and formulations.

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