Find the right surfactants for your cosmetic products!
surfactants
Everything about surfactants in cosmetics:
Applications, Types and Benefits
Surfactants are an indispensable component in the cosmetics industry. They are crucial for the cleaning effects in products such as shampoos, shower gels, soaps and many other care products. Surfactants help to remove dirt and oil from skin and hair and contribute to an even distribution of ingredients.
But not all surfactants are the same – there are different types that have different properties and areas of application.
Types of surfactants:
Surfactants can be divided into four main categories, which differ in their chemical structure and their effect on the skin:
Anionic surfactants
These surfactants have a negative charge and are known for their powerful cleaning properties. They are the most commonly used surfactants in shampoos and shower gels because they provide excellent foaming and cleaning power.
Cationic surfactants
These surfactants have a positive charge and are mainly used in conditioners and care products. They are ideal for conditioning and straightening hair as they have antistatic properties.
Nonionic surfactants
These surfactants have no charge and are particularly gentle on the skin. They are often used in products for sensitive skin or in baby products because they cause little irritation.
amphoteric surfactants
These surfactants can be either positively or negatively charged depending on their pH level. They are often used in combination with other surfactants to enhance the cleaning effect while remaining gentle on the skin.
Benefits of Surfactants
Effective cleaning: Surfactants are known for their ability to remove grease, dirt and oils from skin and hair.
Foaming: Many surfactants produce foam, which leaves a pleasant feeling when using cleaning products.
Wide range of applications: Whether in shampoos, soaps or cleaning products – surfactants are indispensable in many cosmetic products.
Gentle cleansing: Depending on the type of surfactant, products can be very mild and suitable for sensitive skin.
| Designation | INCI-Name | area of operation | effect on the body |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cocamidopropyl Betaine | Cocamidopropyl Betaine | shampoos, shower gels | Mild, foam-enhancing |
| Coco-Glucoside | Coco-Glucoside | natural cosmetics, baby products | Very mild, moisturizing |
| Decyl Glucoside | Decyl Glucoside | baby products, sensitive skin | Very mild, non-irritating |
| Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate | Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate | shampoos, facial cleansers | Very mild, well tolerated |
| Lauryl Glucoside | Lauryl Glucoside | natural cosmetics, baby products | Mild, gentle on the skin |
| Sodium Coco-Sulfate | Sodium Coco-Sulfate | shampoos, soaps | Milder than SLS, good foaming |
| Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate | Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate | shampoos, shower gels | Gentle cleansing, good foam |
| Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate | Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate | shampoos, shower gels | Mild, good cleaning |
| Sodium Lauryl Sulfate | Sodium Lauryl Sulfate | shampoos, shower gels | Strong cleaning, can dry out |
| Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate | Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate | shampoos, shower gels | Mild, good cleaning, foam-enhancing |
