What Is Dicyclohexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate?
Dicyclohexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate is a synthetic ingredient known in chemistry circles as sodium 1,4-dicyclohexyl sulphonatosuccinate. It belongs to the sulfosuccinate family of surfactants, which are compounds designed to help oil and water mix. The molecule features two ring-shaped cyclohexyl groups attached to a sulfosuccinate backbone, giving it both oil-loving and water-loving parts. This dual nature is what makes it such a useful helper in personal care formulas.
The ingredient first gained traction in the mid-20th century when formulators were searching for milder alternatives to traditional soaps. By tweaking the classic sulfosuccinate structure and adding bulky cyclohexyl rings, chemists created a surfactant that delivered plenty of foam without the tight, squeaky feel older cleansers sometimes left behind. Since then it has earned a spot in modern cosmetic labs for its balance of cleansing power and skin feel.
Manufacturing begins with maleic anhydride, a common base material, which is reacted with cyclohexanol to build the twin cyclohexyl arms. This intermediate is then sulfonated and finally neutralized with sodium hydroxide, yielding the finished salt form that dissolves well in water-based products.
You will most often find Dicyclohexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate in face and body washes, bubble baths, shampoos, micellar waters and makeup removers. It occasionally appears in clay masks or exfoliating scrubs where a stable, creamy foam is desired.
Dicyclohexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators turn to this multitasking surfactant for several reasons
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, excess oil and product buildup so skin and hair feel fresh and residue-free.
- Foam Boosting: Enhances lather volume and stability, giving washes and shampoos a rich, satisfying foam even in hard water.
- Hydrotrope: Helps keep oily or fragrant ingredients evenly dispersed in water-based products, preventing separation and improving shelf life.
Who Can Use Dicyclohexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
This surfactant is generally mild enough for most skin types. Normal, oily and combination skin tend to tolerate it well thanks to its balanced cleansing action. Dry or sensitive skin can also use it, though those users may prefer formulas where it is paired with extra moisturizers to offset any potential tightness.
The ingredient is synthetic and not sourced from animals so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products are involved in its production process.
Current data does not flag Dicyclohexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate as a concern for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss any skincare product with a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
The molecule is not known to cause photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also plays well alongside most common skincare actives and preservatives, which is why it shows up in a wide range of cleansers and shampoos.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Dicyclohexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate differ from person to person. The points below list potential issues yet these outcomes are uncommon for the average user when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild skin dryness
- Temporary stinging if applied to broken or highly irritated skin
- Eye irritation if the formula accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare cases of contact dermatitis in individuals with a known surfactant sensitivity
If any irritation or discomfort develops stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Dicyclohexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate is a water-soluble surfactant that is mostly used in rinse-off products, so it spends little time sitting on the skin and is easily washed away. Its molecular structure favors dispersion in water rather than lingering in pores, which keeps its clogging potential low. For those prone to acne or breakouts this ingredient is generally considered safe, especially when used in cleansers and shampoos. People with extremely reactive or oily skin might still prefer to monitor how their skin responds but overall risk of pore blockage is minimal.
No noteworthy interactions with common pore-clogging oils have been reported, and it is often paired with lightweight humectants that further reduce any chance of residue build-up.
Summary
Dicyclohexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate acts as a cleanser, foam booster and hydrotrope. Its dual oil-loving and water-loving parts lift away grime while creating a stable lather and keeping otherwise stubborn ingredients evenly mixed. Although not as famous as sulfates or coco-glucosides, it holds a steady niche in face washes, body cleansers and shampoos that aim for mild yet effective cleansing without stripping the skin.
Current safety data shows it has a low irritation profile when used within typical cosmetic concentrations and it carries a very low comedogenic risk. As with any new product it is wise to perform a quick patch test to confirm personal compatibility before adding it to a regular routine.