Ammonium Nonoxynol-4-Sulfate

What is Ammonium Nonoxynol-4-Sulfate?

Ammonium Nonoxynol-4-Sulfate is a synthetic anionic surfactant, chemically the ammonium salt of the sulfuric acid monoester of Nonoxynol-4, where Nonoxynol-4 derives from nonylphenol reacted with four moles of ethylene oxide. Commonly found in rinse-off hair care and skin cleansing products like shampoos and body washes, it functions by significantly lowering surface tension between water, oils, and soils. This action promotes micelle formation to trap and lift impurities, generates stable foam for even application, and assists in emulsifying oily components for easy rinsing. Its structure provides effective cleansing without leaving residues in typical formulations.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 3 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.

Benefits

Delivers strong foaming action for satisfying cleanse experience.

Efficiently lifts oil, dirt, and residues from skin and hair.

Enhances product texture by stabilizing emulsions.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with oily hair or scalp seeking thorough cleansing.
Those with highly sensitive or compromised skin barriers.
Users preferring high-foam shampoos and body washes.
Individuals experiencing dryness from strong cleansers.
People with normal skin tolerant to surfactant-based cleansers.
Users prone to eye irritation during washing.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics by expert reviews.
  • Potential for mild to moderate irritation depending on concentration and exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ammonium Nonoxynol-4-Sulfate

What is Ammonium Nonoxynol-4-Sulfate used for?

Primarily as a surfactant in shampoos and body washes to create foam and remove impurities.

Is it comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore clogging.

Can it irritate skin?

May cause medium irritation potential, especially in sensitive individuals or eyes.