What Is C10-16 Alkyl Glucoside?
C10-16 Alkyl Glucoside is a plant-derived surfactant created by joining natural fatty alcohols with glucose, the simple sugar found in corn or other starch sources. The “C10-16” part refers to the length of the carbon chains in the alcohols, which fall between 10 and 16 carbons. This size range gives the finished ingredient the right balance of oil-loving and water-loving parts so it can mix oils and water with ease.
Interest in sugar-based surfactants began in the late 1980s when brands started looking for milder and more eco-friendly options than the traditional sulfates. Thanks to advances in green chemistry, manufacturers learned to combine renewable fatty alcohols with glucose in a one-step condensation process that uses minimal solvents and creates little waste. The result is a biodegradable ingredient that is gentle on skin and the environment.
You will spot C10-16 Alkyl Glucoside in all kinds of rinse-off formulas such as face washes, body cleansers, baby shampoos and micellar waters. It also appears in leave-on products like lotions, creams, hair conditioners and sunscreen where it helps keep oil and water blended for a smooth, stable texture.
C10-16 Alkyl Glucoside’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient improves both how a product feels and how well it works
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, oil and makeup without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier, making formulas feel mild enough for sensitive or baby skin
- Emulsifying: Keeps water and oils mixed so creams stay uniform, do not separate and spread evenly on skin or hair
Who Can Use C10-16 Alkyl Glucoside
C10-16 Alkyl Glucoside is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Its mild nature makes it a good choice for sensitive, dry, oily and combination skin alike. Because it does not strip the skin of its natural oils, even people with easily irritated or compromised skin barriers typically find it comfortable to use.
The ingredient is produced by reacting plant-derived fatty alcohols with glucose, so it contains no animal by-products. As a result, products formulated with it can be suitable for both vegetarians and vegans when the rest of the formula is free from animal-derived ingredients.
No data indicate any particular risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said this information is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to their healthcare provider before use to be on the safe side.
C10-16 Alkyl Glucoside does not make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not considered a photosensitiser. It also rinses cleanly and is biodegradable, which adds to its appeal for eco-minded users.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical C10-16 Alkyl Glucoside can vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is used at appropriate levels in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or stinging
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for individuals with specific sensitivities
- Excess dryness if used in a very high-foaming cleanser and followed by no moisturiser, especially on already dehydrated skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these effects occur discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low)
C10-16 Alkyl Glucoside is a small water soluble surfactant that rinses away completely, leaving no oily film that could clog pores. It does not contain heavy fats or waxes and is used at low levels, so the chance of it blocking follicles is minimal.
Because of this low score it is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
One thing to keep in mind is that the overall comedogenicity of a product depends on the full formula, not just one ingredient.
Summary
C10-16 Alkyl Glucoside serves mainly as a gentle cleanser and an emulsifier. Its sugar part grabs water while its fatty alcohol part grabs oil, which lets it lift grime from skin and keep oil based and water based ingredients blended in creams or lotions.
Thanks to its plant origin biodegradability and mildness it is showing up more often in face washes baby shampoos micellar waters and eco conscious skin care lines, though it is still less common than older sulfate surfactants.
The ingredient is considered very safe with a low risk of irritation or pore clogging. Still it is smart to patch test any new product to be sure it suits your individual skin.