Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient functions as a robust surfactant, leveraging its amphiphilic structure to effectively lower surface tension. It enables water to mix with and suspend hydrophobic substances like dirt and oils, facilitating their removal from the skin and hair during rinsing. As an emulsifier, it stabilizes oil and water components within a formulation, contributing to a consistent product texture, and also provides a rich foaming effect.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Insufficient-data confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
No data available regarding dusting practices for this ingredient in the provided research.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
TEA-DODECYLBENZENESULFONATE is highly soluble in water and readily integrates with both oil and water components in a formulation. Solutions containing this acidic salt typically exhibit a pH below 7.0. Its irritant potential and overall stability are critically dependent on the product's concentration and pH.
Conflicts
- nitrosating systems (due to potential for nitrosamine formation)
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that TEA-DODECYLBENZENESULFONATE is safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when formulated to be non-irritating, with a maximum concentration of 1%. Concentrations exceeding this limit may lead to skin and scalp irritation. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) of the EU Commission also approves its use, subject to stringent restrictions under Annex III of EC Cosmetics Regulation (1223/2009). These include a prohibition against use in nitrosating systems, limits on secondary amine content (0.5% in raw materials), and nitrosamine content (50 µg/kg), requiring products to be stored in nitrite-free containers to prevent harmful nitrosamine formation.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
TEA-DODECYLBENZENESULFONATE is a valuable surfactant and emulsifier for rinse-off products, offering effective cleansing and foaming when precisely formulated below 1% to mitigate irritation and adhere to strict safety regulations regarding nitrosamine prevention.
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