What Is Ammonium C9-10 Perfluoroalkylsulfonate?
Ammonium C9-10 Perfluoroalkylsulfonate is a synthetic ingredient made by joining short chains of fully fluorinated carbon atoms (perfluoroalkyls) with a sulfonic acid group then neutralizing that acid with ammonium. The result is a salt that is highly stable and strongly attracted to both oil and water, which makes it effective at breaking up grime and rinsing it away. The perfluoroalkyl portion is manufactured through fluorination of hydrocarbon feedstocks, a process developed in the middle of the twentieth century for industrial coatings. Cosmetic chemists noticed its strong surface activity and adapted it for use in personal care washes and wipes during the 1990s. Today it is produced in regulated facilities where the fluorination step is followed by sulfonation and neutralization, yielding a fine powder or concentrated solution ready for formulators.
You will most often spot Ammonium C9-10 Perfluoroalkylsulfonate in foaming facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removers, body washes, sheet masks and scalp scrubs. It may also appear in specialty wipes or pre shave treatments where quick and efficient cleansing is needed.
Ammonium C9-10 Perfluoroalkylsulfonate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient contributes mainly to how well a product cleans the skin or hair.
- Cleansing: Its dual attraction to oil and water lifts away sebum, makeup and everyday dirt so they rinse off easily. This helps a formula leave skin feeling fresh without a heavy residue.
Who Can Use Ammonium C9-10 Perfluoroalkylsulfonate
This cleansing agent tends to suit normal oily and combination skin because it removes excess sebum with ease. People with very dry or highly sensitive skin may find it a bit too effective at lifting oils which could leave their skin feeling tight.
The ingredient is made entirely in the lab from mineral feedstocks so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. No animal derivatives are involved in its manufacture.
There is no evidence that topical use poses a special risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used at typical cosmetic levels. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show every product they plan to use to their healthcare provider just to be safe.
Ammonium C9-10 Perfluoroalkylsulfonate is not known to cause photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance free and dye free which lowers the chance of fragrance related reactions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Ammonium C9-10 Perfluoroalkylsulfonate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet unlikely for most users when the ingredient is included at standard cosmetic levels.
- Transient dryness or tightness after rinsing
- Mild stinging or redness on very sensitive skin
- Contact dermatitis in those already allergic to fluorinated surfactants
- Eye irritation if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
If any discomfort itching or persistent redness occurs stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 (very low)
Ammonium C9-10 Perfluoroalkylsulfonate is water soluble, used in quick-rinse products and does not linger on skin. Its large fluorinated tail does not blend with skin oil so it rarely blocks pores. Suitable for acne-prone users. If breakouts occur they are more likely linked to other ingredients in the formula rather than this surfactant.
Summary
Ammonium C9-10 Perfluoroalkylsulfonate is a synthetic surfactant that binds to dirt, oil and makeup, then helps them wash away, leaving skin fresh and clean. It is a niche alternative to more common cleansers but shows up in select face washes, micellar waters and wipes because of its strong yet smooth cleansing action.
Overall safety data is reassuring with only minor dryness or irritation reported in sensitive skin. As with any new product do a quick patch test first so you know your skin is happy with the formula.