Disodium Deceth-6 Sulfosuccinate

What is Disodium Deceth-6 Sulfosuccinate?

Disodium Deceth-6 Sulfosuccinate is a synthetic anionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating decyl alcohol with six moles of ethylene oxide, followed by sulfosuccination. It belongs to the sulfosuccinate family, valued in cosmetics for its mild profile. Primarily used in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and baby formulations. It functions by reducing water's surface tension, enabling effective removal of dirt, sebum, and residues through micelle formation. Additionally, it enhances foam density and stability for a luxurious lather feel, while acting as a hydrotrope to dissolve lipophilic components like fragrances in aqueous formulas, preventing cloudiness and ensuring product uniformity. Its ethylene oxide chains contribute to lower irritation compared to harsher surfactants.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

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.

Foam booster

Enhances foam volume and creaminess and can stabilize lather, improving sensory feel and perceived cleansing in shampoos and wash-off products.

Hydrotrope

Improves solubility of poorly soluble ingredients (like fragrances) in water-based systems, helping maintain clarity and prevent separation or cloudiness.

Benefits

Delivers effective yet gentle cleansing by lifting impurities without harsh stripping.

Produces creamy, stable foam that improves user experience in wash products.

Enhances formula stability by solubilizing hard-to-dissolve ingredients like scents.

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 sensitive skin seeking mild cleansers.	Those with rare allergies to sulfosuccinate surfactants.
Users of shampoos and body washes preferring rich lather.	Individuals sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients.
People wanting clear, stable formulations in daily routines.	People experiencing irritation from similar mild surfactants.

Safety Notes

Recognized as safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics by cosmetic ingredient review panels.
Exhibits low potential for skin and eye irritation in formulation concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Disodium Deceth-6 Sulfosuccinate

What is Disodium Deceth-6 Sulfosuccinate used for?

It serves as a mild surfactant in shampoos, body washes, and cleansers for cleansing, foaming, and solubilizing.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its mild nature makes it appropriate for sensitive skin in rinse-off products.

Does it cause irritation?

Authoritative reviews indicate low irritation potential when used as directed.