What Is Ammonium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate?
Ammonium dodecylbenzenesulfonate is a synthetic surfactant made by attaching a long dodecyl (12-carbon) chain to a benzene ring then adding a sulfonate group that is neutralized with ammonium. This mix of oil-loving and water-loving parts lets it break up dirt and oils so they can be rinsed away. The ingredient first appeared in household cleaners in the mid-20th century when chemists looked for cost-effective surfactants, and it soon crossed over into personal care as gentle liquid cleansers became popular. Production starts with petrochemical feedstocks that go through alkylation, sulfonation and neutralization steps, ending with a white to light yellow powder or liquid concentrate.
Today you will most often spot ammonium dodecylbenzenesulfonate in face washes, body washes, bubble baths, shampoos, makeup brushes cleansers, sheet masks that need light foaming action and even some exfoliating scrubs where it helps the product spread evenly.
Ammonium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking surfactant earns its place on ingredient lists for a few practical reasons.
- Cleansing: Lifts away excess oil, sweat and everyday grime so skin and hair feel fresh after rinsing
- Foaming: Creates a rich lather that makes the washing experience feel satisfying and helps distribute the product evenly over the skin or scalp
Who Can Use Ammonium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
Because it rinses clean and does not leave an oily film, ammonium dodecylbenzenesulfonate suits most normal, oily and combination skin types. Dry or easily irritated skin may find it a bit too effective at lifting natural oils, which could lead to tightness or flaking if the formula is not balanced with moisturizers or used too often. It is synthetically produced from petrochemical feedstocks so it contains no animal by-products, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety reviews have not flagged this surfactant as a concern for pregnancy or breastfeeding when used in rinse-off cosmetics. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run all personal care products by a healthcare professional just to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, and there are no known interactions with common actives like retinol, vitamin C or acids. It is also water-soluble so it will not build up in pores or on hair shafts when used as directed.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical ammonium dodecylbenzenesulfonate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet uncommon, and most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Skin dryness due to the removal of protective surface lipids, especially with frequent washing
- Redness or mild stinging in people with sensitive or compromised skin barriers
- Allergic contact dermatitis marked by itching and small bumps, though this is rare
- Eye irritation if the lather gets into the eyes while cleansing or shampooing
- Color fading in dyed hair if present at higher levels in a shampoo formula
If any irritation or other negative reaction occurs, discontinue use and seek advice from a medical professional or pharmacist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Ammonium dodecylbenzenesulfonate is a water-soluble surfactant that does not leave an oily or waxy residue on skin. Because it rinses off completely it is highly unlikely to clog pores or contribute to blackheads and breakouts.
Suitable for acne-prone skin in most rinse-off formats.
No additional concerns about pore blockage have been raised in safety reviews or user reports.
Summary
Ammonium dodecylbenzenesulfonate works as a cleanser and foaming agent by pairing an oil-loving tail with a water-loving head, allowing it to grab onto grease then lift it away in the rinse water. You will see it in everyday products like face washes, body washes and bubble baths, though it is not as widely talked about as ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate.
Current research finds it safe in the low levels used in rinse-off cosmetics, with dryness and mild irritation being the main but uncommon side effects. As with any new skincare ingredient give your skin a chance to adjust by patch testing first.