C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside

A nonionic surfactant-emulsifier formed by linking C12-20 fatty alcohols with glucose. It's used to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions and create mild cleansing bases in shampoos, face washes, and creams.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A gentle plant-based cleanser that doesn't strip the skin.
Category
Emulsifying, Cleansing, Sensitive Skin
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Provides gentle cleansing that respects the skin barrier and scalp comfort, and supports stable, uniform emulsions for a soft skin feel.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Often featured in sulfate-free shampoos, micellar face washes, and milky cleansers, and also used in lightweight creams and lotions as a mild co-emulsifier.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Generally very mild and well tolerated, including for sensitive skin, at typical cosmetic concentrations. Irritation is uncommon but possible with any surfactant if overused or left on skin. No well-known regulatory restrictions at usual use levels.

Is C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside a Good Ingredient?

Consistent support for its mildness, good biodegradability, and wide pH stability, along with lower irritation than many surfactants, is what earns it a Great rating; it effectively emulsifies and cleanses without markedly disrupting the skin barrier.

Products with C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside

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