Decyl Glucoside
Mild Liquid Surfactant
CAS 68515-73-1 · Decyl Glucoside · Non-Ionic · Sulfate-Free · Biodegradable

Decyl Glucoside is a mild, sulfate-free non-ionic surfactant derived from renewable plant sources — coconut-derived decanol and corn-derived glucose. It provides gentle cleansing, rich lather, and excellent skin compatibility, making it ideal for baby products, sensitive skin formulations, and natural personal care.
Biodegradable · non-irritating · compatible with all surfactant charge types · suitable for all ages
| INCI Name | CAS | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Decyl Glucoside | 68515-73-1 | Non-ionic surfactant |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear to slightly hazy liquid |
| Charge type | Non-ionic |
| Solubility | Water soluble |
| pH (neat) | ~11.5 |
| Processing | Cold processable |
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable |
| Application | Usage Rate |
|---|---|
| Shampoos and body washes | 10–30% |
| Baby wash and gentle cleansers | 5–15% |
| Facial cleansers | 5–15% |
| Foam boosting co-surfactant | 5–10% |
- Cold processable — add directly to the water phase with no heat required
- Compatible with anionic, cationic, amphoteric, and nonionic surfactants
- Excellent foam booster and viscosity builder alongside primary surfactants
- Ideal for sulfate-free, natural, and baby formulations
- May cause cloudiness at low temperatures — gently warm to clarify
- Intended use: For external cosmetic and personal care formulations only. Not for internal use.
- Creator's liability: The responsibility for product safety, stability, and regulatory compliance rests entirely with you.
- Professional guidance: If you do not have an advanced background in cosmetic science, seek the guidance of a professional formulator.
- FDA statement: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
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Decyl Glucoside (INCI: Decyl Glucoside, CAS 68515-73-1) is a mild, sulfate-free, plant-derived non-ionic surfactant used as a primary or secondary cleanser in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and baby products. Cold processable, biodegradable, and compatible with all surfactant charge types.
- Primary cleanser in shampoos and body washes (10–30%)
- Gentle facial cleansers and makeup removers (5–15%)
- Baby wash and sensitive skin formulations (5–15%)
- Foam booster alongside primary surfactants (5–10%)
- Non-ionic — compatible with all surfactant charge types
- Sulfate-free · plant-derived · biodegradable
- Cold processable — no heat required
| What is Decyl Glucoside used for?Used as a mild, sulfate-free cleanser and foam booster in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and baby products. |
| Is it safe for sensitive skin and babies?Yes — one of the mildest surfactants available. Non-irritating and suitable for all ages and skin types including newborns. |
| Is it sulfate-free?Yes — plant-derived from coconut and corn. A popular choice for sulfate-free, natural, and clean beauty formulations. |
| What percentage should be used?10–30% in shampoos and body washes; 5–15% in facial cleansers and baby wash; 5–10% as a foam-boosting co-surfactant. |
| What surfactants is it compatible with?Non-ionic — compatible with anionic, cationic, amphoteric, and nonionic surfactants across all system types. |
Note: Cold processable — add directly to the water phase with no heat required. Compatible with all surfactant charge types. May become cloudy at low temperatures — gently warm to clarify. Excellent foam booster and viscosity builder alongside primary surfactants. Ideal for sulfate-free, natural, and baby formulations.