Amineoxides
Amine oxides are a type of chemical compound commonly used in home care production, specifically in cleaning
products. They are surfactants, which means they have both hydrophobic (water-repellent) and hydrophilic (water-
attracting) properties. This unique structure allows them to function as effective cleaning agents and foam boosters.
One of the most common amine oxides used in home care products is called "alkyl dimethyl amine oxide."
1. Surfactant :
Amine oxides act as surfactants in cleaning products, helping to reduce the surface tension of
water. This property allows them to penetrate and lift dirt, grease, and grime from various surfaces.
2. Foaming Agent :
They are also used as foaming agents in many household cleaning products, such as
dishwashing detergents and all-purpose cleaners. The foam created helps in distributing the cleaning agents
evenly and improving their cleaning efficiency.
3. Thickening Agent :
Amine oxides can function as thickening agents in certain formulations, providing a stable
and viscous consistency to the product.
4. Stabilizer :
In some cleaning solutions, amine oxides help stabilize the formulation, preventing phase
separation and maintaining the product's integrity.
5. Mildness :
Compared to some other surfactants, amine oxides are relatively mild, making them suitable for
use in products intended for sensitive skin or delicate surfaces.
6. Environmentally Friendly :
Amine oxides are considered environmentally friendly because they are
biodegradable and do not persist in the environment, contributing to their popularity in green and eco-
friendly cleaning products.
Home care products that may contain amine oxides include dishwashing detergents, all-purpose cleaners, surface
cleaners, bathroom cleaners, and more. They are often combined with other surfactants and cleaning agents to
create effective and versatile cleaning solutions for various household applications.
Antimicobial Agents
Antimicrobial agents, also known as antimicrobial preservatives or biocides, are chemical substances used in home
care formulations to inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae. These agents help
prevent spoilage, contamination, and the development of unpleasant odors in home care products. Antimicrobial
agents are commonly used in products like cleaning solutions, disinfectants, fabric fresheners, and other household
products.
Benzalkonium Chloride (BAC)
Benzalkonium Chloride is a widely used cationic surfactant and antimicrobial agent in home care products. It is
effective against a broad spectrum of microorganisms and helps to maintain product integrity and stability.
Chemical Formula : C6H5CH2N(CH3)2RCl CAS Number : 8001-54-5
Triclosan
Triclosan is an antimicrobial agent with both bacteriostatic and bactericidal properties. It is used in various home
care products, including hand soaps, detergents, and dishwashing liquids, to control the growth of bacteria and
other microorganisms.
Chemical Formula : C12H7Cl3O2 CAS Number : 3380-34-5
Sodium Hypochlorite
Sodium Hypochlorite is a chlorine-based antimicrobial agent used in household bleach and disinfectant formulations.
It is effective in killing a wide range of microorganisms on surface and fabrics.
Chemical Formula : NaClO CAS Number : 7681-52-9
Isopropyl Alcohol (Isopropanol)
Isopropyl Alcohol is a common disinfectant and antimicrobial agent used in various home care products. It is
effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Chemical Formula : C3H8O CAS Number : 67-63-0
Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol)
Ethanol is another alcohol-based antimicrobial agent used in home care formulations. It has similar disinfectant
properties to isopropyl alcohol and is effective against a wide range of microorganisms.
Chemical Formula : C2H5OH CAS Number : 64-17-5
Bleaching Agents
Bleaching agents are chemical compounds used in home care formulations to remove stains, discolorations, and
unwanted pigments from various surfaces and fabrics. They work by breaking down or oxidizing the colored
compounds, making them less visible or removing them entirely. Bleaching agents are commonly used in laundry
detergents, fabric whiteners, and surface cleaners
Sodium Hypochlorite
Sodium Hypochlorite is a common bleaching agent used in household laundry bleach and disinfectant products. It is
effective in removing stains and whitening fabrics.
Chemical Formula : NaClO CAS Number: 7681-52-9
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen Peroxide is a versatile bleaching agent used in various home care products, including laundry detergents,
fabric stain removers, and surface cleaners. It acts as an oxidizing agent, breaking down stains and unwanted
pigments.
Chemical Formula : H2O2 CAS Number: 7722-84-1
Sodium Percarbonate
Sodium Percarbonate is a solid compound used as a source of hydrogen peroxide in laundry detergents and fabric
stain removers. It releases hydrogen peroxide when dissolved in water, providing effective bleaching and stain
removal.
Chemical Formula : 2Na2CO3 · 3H2O2 CAS Number : 15630-89-4
Sodium Perborate
Sodium Perborate is another solid compound used as a source of active oxygen for bleaching and stain removal in
laundry detergents and fabric whiteners.
Chemical Formula : NaBO3 · 4H2O CAS Number : 10486-00-7
Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC)
Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate is a chlorine-based bleaching agent used in household cleaning and disinfectant
products. It is effective in removing stains and sanitizing surfaces.
Chemical Formula : C3Cl2N3NaO3 CAS Number : 2893-78-9
Emulsifiers
There are several types of emulsifiers used in home care products to create stable mixtures of water and oil-based
ingredients. These emulsifiers help maintain the homogeneity of the products, improve their performance, and
enhance their shelf life.
Nonionic Emulsifiers
Nonionic emulsifiers are versatile and compatible with a wide range of ingredients. They do not carry an electric
charge and are generally mild on the skin.
Sorbitan stearate
Sorbitan Stearate is an emulsifier and stabilizer used to create stable emulsions of oil and water. It helps in mixing
and dispersing oil-based and water-based ingredients in cosmetic and food formulations, providing a smooth and
uniform texture.
Chemical formula : C24H46O6. CAS Number : 1338-41-6.
Polysorbate 80
This emulsifier is often used in water-in-oil emulsions, particularly in cosmetic products that require a light and non-
greasy texture.
Chemical Formula : N/A CAS Number : 9005-65-6
Polysorbate 20
Polysorbate 20 is a water-soluble surfactant and emulsifier that helps disperse oil-based ingredients in water-based
formulations. It is used to create stable emulsions and improve the compatibility of oil and water in various
products.
Chemical formula : C58H114O26. CAS number : 9005-64-5.
Ethoxylated Alcohols
Ethoxylated alcohols are a class of nonionic emulsifiers derived from fatty alcohols. They have various CAS numbers
depending on the specific compound.
• Chemical formula : R-(OCH2CH2)n-OH CAS Number 68439-50-9 ( 68439-46-3 / 68439-49-6 )
Ethoxylated Fatty Acids
Ethoxylated fatty acids are another group of nonionic emulsifiers with different CAS numbers based on their
chemical structures.
Chemical formula : RCO-(OCH2CH2)n-OH CAS Number 9004-82-4 ( 9004-98-2 / 61791-23-5 )
Anionic Emulsifiers
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
SLES is widely used in cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and toothpaste to create a rich foaming lather and
effectively removes dirt and oil from the skin and hair. SLES is effective but can be relatively harsh on sensitive skin.
Chemical formula : C12H25O(CH2CH2O) nSO3Na CAS Number : 68585-34-2
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI)
SCI is a mild anionic emulsifier derived from coconut oil. It is commonly used in solid and liquid cleansers, such as
solid shampoos and body washes, to provide a gentle and creamy lather.
Chemical formula : C2Na6H10O47S4. CAS number : 61789-32-0.
Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate (DOSS)
DOSS is an anionic surfactant and emulsifier used in some pharmaceutical formulations, including injectable
medications and intravenous fluids, to enhance the solubility and stability of certain drugs.
Chemical formula : C20H37NaO7S. CAS number : 577-11-7.
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
This anionic emulsifier is used in various personal care products, such as toothpaste and facial cleansers, for its
foaming and cleansing properties.
Chemical formula : C15H29NNaO3. CAS number : 137-16-6.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
SLES is widely used in cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and toothpaste to create a rich foaming lather and
effectively removes dirt and oil from the skin and hair. SLES is effective but can be relatively harsh on sensitive skin.
Chemical formula : C12H25O(CH2CH2O) nSO3Na CAS Number : 68585-34-2
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI)
SCI is a mild anionic emulsifier derived from coconut oil. It is commonly used in solid and liquid cleansers, such as
solid shampoos and body washes, to provide a gentle and creamy lather.
Chemical formula : C2Na6H10O47S4. CAS number : 61789-32-0.
Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate (DOSS)
DOSS is an anionic surfactant and emulsifier used in some pharmaceutical formulations, including injectable
medications and intravenous fluids, to enhance the solubility and stability of certain drugs.
Chemical formula : C20H37NaO7S. CAS number : 577-11-7.
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
This anionic emulsifier is used in various personal care products, such as toothpaste and facial cleansers, for its
foaming and cleansing properties.
Chemical formula : C15H29NNaO3. CAS number : 137-16-6.
Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate (SSL)
Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate is a chlorine-based bleaching agent used in household cleaning and disinfectant
products. It is effective in removing stains and sanitizing surfaces.
Chemical Formula : C3Cl2N3NaO3 CAS Number : 2893-78-9
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
SLS is widely used in cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and toothpaste to create a rich foaming lather and
effectively removes dirt and oil from the skin and hair. SLS is effective but can be relatively harsh on sensitive skin.
Chemical formula : C12H25SO4Na CAS Number : 151-21-3
Cationic Emulsifiers
Cetrimonium Chloride
Cetrimonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound used in hair care products as a conditioning and
antistatic agent.
Chemical Formula : C16H33NCl CAS Number : 112-02-7
Behentrimonium Methosulfate
Behentrimonium Methosulfate is a cationic surfactant used in hair conditioners and detanglers for its conditioning
properties.
Chemical Formula : C26H57NO4S CAS Number : 81646-13-1
Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine
Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine is a cationic surfactant used in hair care products for its conditioning and antistatic
properties.
Chemical Formula : C21H46N2O CAS Number : 61789-40-0
Quaternium-80
Quaternium-80 is a cationic surfactant used in hair care products to provide conditioning and detangling benefits.
Chemical Formula : Not available CAS Number : 189906-80-8
Amphoteric Emulsifiers
Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)
Cetrimonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound used in hair care products as a conditioning and
antistatic agent.
Chemical Formula : C16H33NCl CAS Number : 112-02-7
Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate
Behentrimonium Methosulfate is a cationic surfactant used in hair conditioners and detanglers for its conditioning
properties.
Chemical Formula : C26H57NO4S CAS Number : 81646-13-1
Lauryl Betaine
Lauryl Betaine is an amphoteric surfactant used in personal care products for its mild cleansing and foaming
capabilities. It is derived from natural sources and is known for its compatibility with other surfactants and its ability
to improve skin feel.
Chemical Formula : C12H25NOS CAS Number : 1643-20-5
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine is an amphoteric surfactant used in various personal care products, including
shampoos and body washes, for its mild cleansing and thickening properties. It helps improve the foam and viscosity
of formulations.
Chemical Formula : C19H37N2O5S CAS Number : 68139-30-0
Polymeric Emulsifiers
Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate
Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate is a polymeric emulsifier derived from natural sources, usually plant-based oils. It is
commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products for its ability to stabilize emulsions and create smooth
textures.
Chemical Formula : C43H84O8 CAS Number : 25718-99-4
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Glyceryl Stearate SE is a self-emulsifying polymeric emulsifier commonly used in cosmetic formulations. It is derived
from glycerin and stearic acid and helps to create stable and elegant emulsions with a soft and smooth feel.
Chemical Formula : C21H42O5 CAS Number : 11099-07-3
PEG-100 Stearate
PEG-100 Stearate is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivative used as a polymeric emulsifier in various cosmetics and
personal care products. It helps to stabilize emulsions and improve the texture and spreadability of formulations.
Chemical Formula : C21H42O5(C2H4O)n CAS Number: 9004-99-3
Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate
Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate is a polymeric emulsifier derived from oleic acid and polyglyceryl compounds. It is often used
in cosmetic and personal care products to stabilize emulsions and enhance the performance of the formulations.
Chemical Formula : C30H56O8 CAS Number : 9007-48-1
Silicone Emulsifiers
Dimethicone Copolyol
Dimethicone Copolyol is a silicone emulsifier that helps disperse silicone oil in water-based formulations. It enhances
the texture of products and provides a silky feel to the skin.
Chemical structure varies based on the specific copolyol used
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone is a silicone emulsifier that is part of the PEG/PPG copolymer family. It helps create
stable emulsions and contributes to the smooth texture of products.
Chemical Formula : includes a combination of (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) units attached to
dimethicone.
Cyclomethicone and Cyclopentasiloxane
Cyclomethicone and Cyclopentasiloxane are silicone emulsifiers that are used as carriers for other silicone-based
ingredients in cosmetic formulations. They provide a lightweight and non-greasy feel to products.
Chemical Formula : (CH3)4Si4O4, while Cyclopentasiloxane has the formula (CH3)5Si5O2.
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone emulsifier that helps improve the texture and stability of cosmetic
formulations. It is often used in skincare products to provide a silky and smooth feel to the skin.
Chemical Formula : The chemical structure consists of crosslinked dimethicone molecules.
Fragrances
Fragrances, also known as scents, are commonly used ingredients in home care product formulations. They are
added to enhance the smell of products and create a pleasant sensory experience during their use. Fragrances are
used in a variety of home care products, such as laundry detergents, fabric softeners, all-purpose cleaners, air
fresheners, floor cleaners, glass cleaners, and more.
Pigments and Colorants
Pigments and colorants are ingredients used in home care product formulations to add color or specific shades to
the products. They are used for aesthetic reasons and to help identify different products or scents. Here's how
pigments and colorants are used in some home care products : Detergents, Bathroom Cleaners, Dishwasher
Detergents, Laundry Care Products.
Optical Brightners
Optical brighteners, also known as fluorescent whitening agents or optical brightening agents (OBAs), are chemical
compounds used in various industries, including home care products, to enhance the appearance of fabrics and
surfaces. They work by absorbing invisible ultraviolet (UV) light and re-emitting it as visible blue light, which makes
fabrics and surfaces appear whiter and brighter.
In home care products, optical brighteners are commonly used in laundry detergents and fabric softeners
Fluorescent Brightener 28 (also known as DAS and Tinopal CBS-X)
Fluorescent Brightener 28 is a popular optical brightener used in various applications, including laundry detergents,
fabric softeners, and paper coatings. It imparts a brightening effect to fabrics and paper products, making them
appear whiter and more vibrant.
Chemical Formula : C40H40N12Na4O16S4 CAS Number : 4193-55-9
Fluorescent Brightener 71 (also known as Uvitex OB-1)
Fluorescent Brightener 71 is a commonly used optical brightener in laundry detergents and fabric care products. It is
also used in plastic products, coatings, and printing inks to improve brightness and color appearance.
Chemical Formula : C28H18N2O2 CAS Number : 1533-45-5
Fluorescent Brightener 220 (also known as Blankophor P 125)
Fluorescent Brightener 220 is used in a variety of applications, including detergents, paper coatings, and plastics, to
enhance brightness and color in the final products.
Chemical Formula : C40H40N12O16S4Na4 CAS Number : 16470-24-9
Fluorescent Brightener 185 (also known as Blankophor BBH)
Fluorescent Brightener 185 is commonly used in laundry detergents and fabric care products. It is effective in
imparting a brightening effect to fabrics and textiles, making them look whiter and fresher.
Chemical Formula : C40H42N12O10S2Na2 CAS Number : 12224-41-8
Opacifying agents
Opacifying agents are additives used in home care formulations to increase the opacity or reduce the transparency
of the product. They are commonly used in various cleaning and personal care products to improve the appearance
and enhance the consumer's perception of the product's performance. Opacifying agents work by scattering light,
which makes the product appear less transparent or translucent.
Titanium Dioxide (TiO2)
Titanium dioxide is a white pigment and opacifying agent commonly used in a wide range of home care products,
including liquid detergents, fabric softeners, and cleaning solutions. It provides excellent opacity and helps improve
the visual appearance of the product.
Chemical Formula : TiO2 CAS Number : 13463-67-7
Silica
Silica is another opacifying agent used in home care formulations. It is often used in powdered or granulated
cleaning products to add opacity and create a uniform, non-transparent appearance.
Chemical Formula : SiO2 CAS Number : 7631-86-9
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium carbonate is a mineral-based opacifying agent used in various cleaning products, including scouring powders
and cream cleaners. It helps create a visually appealing and non-transparent appearance in these products.
Chemical Formula : CaCO3 CAS Number : 471-34-1
Bentonite
Bentonite is a clay-based opacifying agent used in some cleaning products, such as liquid cleaners and fabric care
formulations. It helps improve the product's texture while adding opacity.
Chemical Formula : Al2H2O12Si4 CAS Number : 1302-78-9
Polymers
Certain water-soluble or water-dispersible polymers can also act as opacifying agents in home care products. They
are used in some liquid detergents and cleaning solutions to provide opacity and improve the overall appearance of
the product.
Pearmizing Agents
Pearlizing agents are additives used in home care formulations to create a pearlescent or iridescent appearance in
products such as shampoos, body washes, liquid soaps, and other personal care and home care products.
Ethylene Glycol Distearate
Ethylene Glycol Distearate is a pearlescent agent used in various personal care and home care products to create a
pearly appearance. It imparts a luxurious and visually appealing effect to products like shampoos, body washes, and
liquid soaps.
Chemical Formula : C38H76O4 CAS Number : 627-83-8
Glycol Stearate
Glycol Stearate is a pearlescent agent that is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products, including
shampoos and body washes. It helps create a pearly and opalescent appearance in formulations.
Chemical Formula : C20H40O3 CAS Number : 123-95-5
PEG-150 Distearate
PEG-150 Distearate is a polyethylene glycol derivative that functions as a pearlizing agent in various cosmetic and
personal care formulations. It helps to create a pearlescent effect, enhancing the visual appeal of the products.
Chemical Formula : (C18H35O2)2-(C2H4O)n CAS Number: 91080-29-4
Mica (Natural Mineral)
Mica is a natural mineral that is sometimes used as a pearlescent additive in cosmetics, personal care products, and
some home care formulations. It imparts an iridescent effect to the products.
Chemical Formula : depending on its specific composition.
Titanium Dioxide-coated Mica
Titanium Dioxide-coated Mica consists of mica particles coated with titanium dioxide. This combination enhances
the opalescent effect and is commonly used in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Chemical Formula : Varies depending on the specific composition of the coating.
Ph-modifiers
pH modifiers, also known as pH adjusters or pH regulators, are chemical compounds used in home care formulations
to control and stabilize the pH level of the product. The pH of a home care product is essential for its performance,
stability, and compatibility with different surfaces and materials. pH modifiers can either increase (raise) or decrease
(lower) the pH of the formulation to achieve the desired pH range.
Citric Acid
Citric acid is a weak organic acid used as a pH modifier in many home care products. It is commonly used to lower
the pH of formulations, making them more acidic.
Chemical Formula : C6H8O7 CAS Number : 77-92-9
Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Soda)
Sodium hydroxide is a strong base used as a pH modifier to increase the pH of home care products, making them
more alkaline.
Chemical Formula : NaOH CAS Number : 1310-73-2
Ammonium Hydroxide
Ammonium hydroxide is a weak base that can be used as a pH modifier in certain home care formulations.
Chemical Formula : NH4OH CAS Number : 1336-21-6
Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda)
Sodium bicarbonate is a mild alkaline substance used as a pH modifier to increase the pH of certain home care
products.
Chemical Formula : NaHCO3 CAS Number : 144-55-8
Acetic Acid (Vinegar)
Acetic acid is a weak organic acid that can be used as a pH modifier to lower the pH of some home care
formulations.
Chemical Formula : CH3COOH CAS Number : 64-19-7
Preservatives
Preservatives are chemical substances used in home care formulations to inhibit the growth of microorganisms such
as bacteria, fungi, and mold. They help prevent spoilage and microbial contamination, extending the shelf life and
ensuring the safety of the products. Preservatives are essential in home care formulations to maintain product
integrity and protect consumers from potential harmful effects of microbial growth
Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)
Methylisothiazolinone is a commonly used preservative in various home care products, including cleaning solutions,
laundry detergents, and fabric softeners. It provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection against bacteria and
fungi.
Chemical Formula : C4H5NOS CAS Number : 2682-20-4
Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI or CMIT/MIT)
Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone are often used together as a preservative blend in home
care formulations. They offer effective antimicrobial protection against bacteria, yeasts, and molds.
Chemical Formulas : C4H5ClNOS (MCI) and C4H5NOS (MI) CAS Numbers : 26172-55-4 (MCI) and 2682-20-4 (MI)
Benzisothiazolinone (BIT)
Benzisothiazolinone is a preservative commonly used in household cleaning products and other home care
formulations. It has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and algae.
Chemical Formula : C7H5NOS CAS Number : 2634-33-5
Sodium Benzoate
Sodium Benzoate is a preservative used in various home care products to prevent microbial growth. It is effective
against bacteria, molds, and yeasts.
Chemical Formula : C7H5NaO2 CAS Number : 532-32-1
Potassium Sorbate
Potassium Sorbate is a preservative used in home care formulations to inhibit the growth of molds, yeasts, and some
bacteria. It is often used in liquid products and emulsions.
Chemical Formula : C6H7KO2 CAS Number : 24634-61-5
Rheology modifiers
Rheology modifiers are chemical substances used in home care formulations to control and modify the flow
behavior or consistency of the product. They help enhance the texture, stability, and performance of various home
care products, including cleaning solutions, detergents, and fabric softeners. Rheology modifiers can thicken, gel, or
stabilize formulations, making them easier to use and improving their overall effectiveness
Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum is a natural polysaccharide derived from the fermentation of sugars by the bacterium Xanthomonas
campestris. It is used as a thickener and stabilizer in home care products, providing enhanced viscosity and
improving product stability.
Chemical Formula : (C35H49O29)n CAS Number : 11138-66-2
Carbomer (Polyacrylic Acid)
Carbomer is a synthetic polymer made from acrylic acid monomers. It is commonly used as a rheology modifier in
home care formulations to increase viscosity and create gels or thickened solutions.
Chemical Formula : (C3H4O2)n CAS Number : 9003-01-4
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC)
Hydroxyethyl cellulose is a modified cellulose derivative. It is used as a rheology modifier to thicken and stabilize
home care products, providing improved flow properties and better texture.
Chemical Formula : (C2H6O)n(C6H7O)n CAS Number : 9004-62-0
Polyacrylamide
Polyacrylamide is a synthetic polymer with a wide range of applications, including as a rheology modifier in home
care products. It can be used to adjust viscosity and improve the stability of formulations.
Chemical Formula : (C3H5NO)n CAS Number : 9003-05-8
Guar Gum
Guar gum is a natural gum derived from the seeds of the guar plant. It is used as a thickener and stabilizer in home
care formulations, improving product texture and flow properties.
Chemical Formula : (C35H49O29)n CAS Number : 9000-30-0
CMC (Carboxymethyl Cellulose)
Carboxymethyl cellulose is a cellulose derivative with carboxymethyl groups introduced into the cellulose structure.
It is used as a rheology modifier to enhance viscosity and stability in various home care products.
Chemical Formula : (C6H7O2(OH)2CH2COONa)n CAS Number : 9004-32-4
Surfactants
Surfactants are cleansing agents that enable the removal of dirt and oil from the skin. They are commonly found in
cleansers and shampoos.
Surfactants play a crucial role in cosmetics as they are responsible for the cleansing and foaming properties of
various personal care products. Surfactants are surface-active agents, which means they have both hydrophilic
(water-attracting) and lipophilic (oil-attracting) properties. These dual characteristics allow surfactants to interact
with both water and oil, making them effective in removing dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin and hair.
Here are some common uses of surfactants in cosmetics :
1. Cleansers : Surfactants are the key ingredients in cleansing products such as facial cleansers, body washes,
shampoos, and shower gels. They emulsify dirt and oil, allowing them to be rinsed away with water.
2. Foaming Agents : Surfactants create foam and lather in products like shampoos and body washes, giving
consumers a sense of cleansing and efficacy.
3. Emulsifiers : Surfactants are used to stabilize emulsions, which are mixtures of oil and water. They help keep
the oil and water phases from separating in creams, lotions, and other emulsion-based products.
4. Solubilizers : Certain surfactants are employed to dissolve oil-soluble ingredients in water, making it possible
to incorporate oil-based actives into water-based formulations.
5. Wetting Agents : Surfactants aid in reducing the surface tension of liquids, improving their spreadability and
enabling better coverage on the skin or hair.
6. Conditioners : Some surfactants, known as cationic surfactants, have conditioning properties and are used in
hair conditioners to improve manageability and reduce static.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
This is widely used in cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and toothpaste to create a rich foaming lather and
effectively removes dirt and oil from the skin and hair. SLS is effective but can be relatively harsh on sensitive skin.
Chemical formula : C12H25SO4Na CAS Number : 151-21-3
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
This is widely used in cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and toothpaste to create a rich foaming lather and
effectively removes dirt and oil from the skin and hair. SLES is effective but can be relatively harsh on sensitive skin.
Chemical formula : C12H25O(CH2CH2O) nSO3Na CAS Number : 68585-34-2
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
This surfactant is derived from coconut oil and is often used in shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. It helps
create a mild, gentle foam and has good cleansing properties.
Chemical formula : C19H38N2O3 CAS Number : 61789-40-0
Decyl Glucoside
This is a non-ionic surfactants derived from natural sources, such as coconut and corn. It is often used in natural and
mild cosmetic products due to its gentle cleansing properties.
Chemical formula : C16H32O6 CAS Number : 68515-73-1
Lauryl Glucoside
This is a non-ionic surfactants derived from natural sources, such as coconut and corn. It is often used in natural and
mild cosmetic products due to its gentle cleansing properties.
Chemical formula : C12H24O6 CAS Number : 59122-55-3
Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Surfactants
PEG surfactants are often used as emulsifiers and solubilizers in cosmetic products. They help mix water and oil-
based ingredients and improve product stability.
Chemical formula : H-(O-CH2-CH2)n-OH CAS number PEG 400 : 25322-69-4
Cetearyl Alcohol
While this is not a traditional surfactant, it is used in combination with surfactants as co-surfactant or emollient in
creams and lotions to help stabilize emulsions and provide a smooth, creamy texture.
Chemical formula : C16H33OH CAS Number : 67762-27-0
Cetyl Alcohol
While this is not a traditional surfactant, it is used in combination with surfactants as co-surfactant or emollient in
creams and lotions to help stabilize emulsions and provide a smooth, creamy texture.
Chemical formula : C16H34O CAS Number : 36653-82-4
Glyceryl Stearate
Glyceryl Stearate is used as emulsifier in creams and lotions to help combine oil and water-based ingredients and
create stable formulations.
Chemical formula : C21H42O4 CAS Number : 31566-31-1
PEG-100 Stearate
PEG-100 is used as emulsifier in creams and lotions to help combine oil and water-based ingredients and create
stable formulations.
Chemical formula : C23H46O7 CAS Number : 9004-99-3
Coco-Glucoside
This mild surfactant is often used in baby care products and sensitive skin formulations due to its gentle cleansing
properties.
Chemical formula : C16H32O6 CAS Number : 141464-42-8
Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate
This amphoteric surfactant is gentle and used in mild cleansers and shampoos, particularly in baby care products.
Chemical formula : C18H35NNa2O7 CAS Number : 68650-39-5
Sorbitan Oleate
This surfactant is often used as solubilizer and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations, especially in oil-in-water
emulsions.
Chemical formula : C24H44O6 CAS Number : 1338-43-8
Polysorbate
This surfactant is often used as solubilizer and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations, especially in oil-in-water
emulsions.
Chemical formula of Polysorbate 20 : C58H114O26 CAS Number : 9005-64-5
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI)
SCI is a gentle surfactant used in solid cleansers, such as cleansing bars and bath bombs, to provide a mild cleansing
experience.
Chemical formula : C2Na2O5S CAS Number : 61789-32-0