EWG Safety Score
What Is Decyl Glucoside?
Decyl glucoside is primarily used for its surfactant (cleansing) properties. While most common in facial and body cleansers, you can also find decyl glucoside in products such as self-tanners, sunscreens, and liquid foundations where it may function as an emulsion stabilizer.\n\nDecyl glucoside is obtained from the condensation of glucose + the fatty alcohol decanol, which comes from coconuts. Its mildness makes it popular for use in baby shampoos. This ingredient is known for producing desirable foaming properties.\n\nAs a raw material, decyl glucoside is described as a water-soluble, clear to slightly hazy yellow or amber viscous liquid.\n\nIn 2013, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed decyl glucoside “safe in the present practices of use and concentration when formulated to be nonirritating.” Their report looked at rinse-off products containing up to 33% and only up to 2% for leave-on formulas.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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UL Prospector, Accessed October 2021, ePublication UL Prospector, 2021
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Dermatitis, November-December 2017, pages 342–345 Dermatitis, 2017
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International Journal of Toxicology, September-October 2013, pages 22S–48S International Journal of Toxicology, 2013
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