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Moumoujus

TRIDECETH-4 CARBOXYLIC ACID.

Valuable CAS 68412-55-5 / CLEANSING, FOAMING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

Trideceth-4 Carboxylic Acid is a versatile, acid-stable surfactant primarily employed as a cleansing and foaming agent. It effectively reduces surface tension to blend oil and water phases, making it highly valuable in precision skincare formulations.

Summary

Cleansing Agent Surfactant Foaming Agent Emulsifying Agent Solubilizing Agent pH Regulator Skin Barrier Support

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by decreasing the surface tension of liquids, facilitating the homogeneous mixing of typically immiscible substances like oils and water. In its unneutralized form, it acts as a nonionic surfactant with emulsifying properties. When neutralized, it transforms into a biodegradable, hypoallergenic detergent renowned for its excellent cleansing and dispersing capabilities. Notably, it is an acid-stable surfactant effective in low pH environments, crucial for synergy with Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) in exfoliating products. It aids in the efficient removal of dead skin cells and helps to reduce the stinging sensation often associated with acidic actives. In leave-on acidic formulations, it supports the skin's natural acid mantle, promoting a healthy, weakly acidic surface environment and reinforcing barrier function.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH ≥3
0 7 14

Stability

Trideceth-4 Carboxylic Acid demonstrates exceptional acid-stability, maintaining optimal foaming, cleansing, and solubilizing efficacy even at pH levels as low as 3.0. Unlike traditional sulfates, it resists hydrolysis in acidic conditions, thus ensuring product stability, particularly in formulations containing acidic active ingredients such as AHAs and BHAs. It can be neutralized using alkali to suit specific formulation requirements.

Synergies

  • Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
  • Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has deemed related alkyl PEG ethers, including Trideceth-4, safe for cosmetic use when formulations are non-irritating. The broader class of fatty acids and their salts also carry a CIR safety assessment of 'safe when formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing.' However, EWG notes potential concerns regarding contamination with toxic impurities, specifically Ethylene Oxide and 1,4-Dioxane, common in ethoxylated ingredients. No specific SCCS or FDA approval status was found.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Trideceth-4 Carboxylic Acid is a valuable acid-stable surfactant, particularly useful in low pH formulations to enhance cleansing, support barrier function, and mitigate irritation from acidic actives.

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