What Is Diammonium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate?
Diammonium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate is a gentle, water-soluble surfactant made from oleic acid, a fatty acid found in vegetable oils like olive oil, reacted with polyethylene glycol and then neutralized with ammonia. The result is a salt that loves both water and oil, which helps it mix grime with rinse water so it can be washed away. First introduced in the late 1970s as chemists searched for milder alternatives to the harsher sulfates used in shampoos and body washes, it quickly found a home in products aimed at sensitive skin. Manufacturing begins with plant-derived oleic acid that is converted into an amide, linked to short polyethylene glycol chains, treated with maleic anhydride to create a sulfosuccinate backbone and finally neutralized to form the diammonium salt. This ingredient shows up most often in sulfate-free shampoos, facial cleansers, bubble baths, baby washes, hand soaps and occasionally in rinse-off masks or scrubs where a creamy foam and low irritation are desired.
Diammonium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient improves the feel and performance of many wash-off formulas.
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, excess oil and product buildup without stripping the skin or hair’s natural moisture
- Foam Boosting: Creates a rich stable lather that helps consumers feel the product is working and makes it easier to spread
- Hydrotrope: Keeps otherwise tricky ingredients dissolved in water-based formulas, allowing for clear stable products
Who Can Use Diammonium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate
Because it is milder than many other surfactants, Diammonium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and sensitive skin. Dry or eczema-prone skin usually tolerates it well in rinse-off products, although a very high concentration could feel a bit tight if no replenishing ingredients are present.
The ingredient is typically sourced from plant oils so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If animal-derived feedstocks were used the manufacturer must list that, so ethical shoppers should look for a vegan or cruelty-free certification on the finished product.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women. The molecule is not known to penetrate deeply or act hormonally. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask their healthcare provider before adding new skincare or haircare items, just to be safe.
Diammonium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate does not cause photosensitivity, so there is no extra need for sun avoidance beyond normal good sunscreen habits.
It is also color-safe for dyed hair and is commonly used in baby cleansers, giving an additional hint at its gentle profile.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical use of Diammonium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate can differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated.
- Transient eye irritation if shampoo, body wash or bubble bath splashes into the eyes
- Mild skin redness or stinging on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching or small bumps
- Temporary dryness or tightness if the formula is left on too long or lacks moisturizers
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low likelihood of clogging pores)
Diammonium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate is a fully water-soluble surfactant that is rinsed off the skin within seconds. It does not leave behind an oily residue and its large hydrophilic structure keeps it from settling inside pores. Because of this it earns a near non-comedogenic score of 1.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.
In rare cases if a cleanser is not rinsed away properly or is used in an overly concentrated form it could cause temporary dryness which might trigger reactive oil production in some people, but this is formula-dependent rather than an issue with the ingredient itself.
Summary
Diammonium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate is a gentle surfactant that cleanses, boosts foam and acts as a hydrotrope. Its amphiphilic structure grabs onto dirt and oil then lets water whisk everything away while also keeping tricky ingredients dissolved so formulas stay clear and stable.
It appears most often in sulfate-free shampoos, baby washes and sensitive skin cleansers. While not as famous as traditional sulfates it has gained steady popularity among formulators who need mildness without sacrificing lather.
Overall safety data show a low irritation potential and virtually no comedogenic risk, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of skin types. As with any new product it is wise to perform a small patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.