Surfactant

Decyl Glucoside

The softest non-ionic surfactant from sugar and coconut — decyl glucoside does not damage the barrier, suitable for infants and allergy sufferers, certified by ECOCERT. The gold standard of gentle cleansers.

gentle surfactantnon-ionicnaturalECOCERT

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Decyl Glucoside (INCI: Decyl Glucoside) — a non-ionic surfactant of the alkyl glucoside class. Synthesized by condensing decan-1-ol (coconut oil) and glucose (corn starch). Its non-ionic nature is the least irritating for skin and eyes among surfactants. pH-neutral (4–6). Compatible with most surfactants and active ingredients. ECOCERT/COSMOS certified. Also available as Coco Glucoside (C8-16 mixture) and Lauryl Glucoside (C12).

Primary or auxiliary surfactant in products for infants, sensitive and atopic skin. Shower gels, shampoos, intimate hygiene products, micellar solutions. Combines with amphoteric (cocoamphoacetate) to enhance foaming.

Key Benefits

✦

Minimal irritation — safe for infants

The non-ionic structure does not interact with charged skin proteins — minimal denaturation. Clinically: decyl glucoside does not increase TEWL after washing unlike SLS. Ophthalmologically safe — does not irritate the eyes. A standard in baby cosmetics (Johnson's baby, Weleda baby, ATTITUDE).

◈

Preservation of skin pH and microbiome

Glucoside surfactants do not disrupt the skin's acid mantle (pH 5.5). Unlike SLS cleansers (pH 7+), products based on DG maintain pH and normal microflora. Critical for vaginal pH (4–4.5) and skin microbiome.

✧

Environmental safety and certification — Fully biodegradable, derived from renewable plant sources. ECOCERT and COSMOS Natural certified. EWG rating: 1. Meets zero-waste and sustainable beauty requirements. Not tested on animals (Leaping Bunny).

Suitable for

for all skin typesfor sensitive skinfor baby skinfor atopic skin

Main Actions

✓ gentle cleansing✓ barrier preservation✓ pH preservation

Decyl vs Coco vs Lauryl Glucoside

Decyl Glucoside (C10) — the mildest, minimal foaming. Coco Glucoside (C8-16 mixture) — balanced, good foaming. Lauryl Glucoside (C12) — better cleansing and foam, slightly stronger. All three are gentle eco-friendly surfactants. For maximum gentleness — decyl. For daily shampoo — coco or lauryl glucoside.

CategorySurfactants

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