A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Conditions Hair
Cleansing Surfactant
Lifts away dirt and oil
Softens and detangles hair
Traditional Use
Developed in the mid-20th century as a mild surfactant derived from sarcosine (an amino acid). Designed as a gentler alternative to harsher sulfate cleansers for use in personal care products.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
Industry max
Industry typically uses up to 4.0% in leave-on products (217 products reported). Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 607).