Dihydroxyethyl C8-10 Alkoxypropylamine Oxide: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Dihydroxyethyl C8-10 Alkoxypropylamine Oxide?

Dihydroxyethyl C8-10 Alkoxypropylamine Oxide is a modern surfactant that belongs to the amine oxide family. It is usually made from medium-chain fatty alcohols with eight to ten carbon atoms, which are often sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. These natural oils are first converted into fatty alcohols, then reacted with bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amine to create an amine, and finally oxidized to form the stable amine oxide used in cosmetics. Chemists began adding amine oxides to personal care formulas in the late 1960s as a way to create milder cleansers that lather well without stripping skin or hair. Its balanced mix of water-loving and oil-loving parts lets it blend oily residues with water so they rinse away easily. You will most often see this ingredient in shampoos, conditioners, body washes, facial cleansers, bubble baths, micellar waters and liquid hand soaps where gentle cleansing and rich foam are top priorities.

Dihydroxyethyl C8-10 Alkoxypropylamine Oxide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This versatile surfactant offers several practical benefits to everyday beauty products

  • Antistatic: Helps reduce static buildup on hair so strands stay smoother and are easier to comb
  • Cleansing: Lifts dirt oil and product buildup from skin and hair then suspends them in water for a clean rinse
  • Foam Boosting: Increases the volume and stability of lather making washes and shampoos feel richer and more satisfying
  • Hydrotrope: Improves the way a formula holds together by keeping oils fragrances and other ingredients evenly dispersed in water based products

Who Can Use Dihydroxyethyl C8-10 Alkoxypropylamine Oxide

This gentle surfactant is generally well suited to most skin and hair types including dry balanced oily and combination. Because it is milder than traditional sulfates it is often a good choice for people with sensitive or easily irritated skin, though anyone with chronic conditions like eczema or psoriasis may still prefer very simple fragrance free formulas.

The ingredient is typically sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. If plant origin is important always check that the final product carries a clear vegan certification since a few suppliers can use animal derived fatty alcohols.

No evidence suggests that topical use poses specific risks during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The molecule stays on the outer skin or hair surface and is rinsed away. This is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should confirm any personal care routine with their physician to stay on the safe side.

Dihydroxyethyl C8-10 Alkoxypropylamine Oxide does not increase sensitivity to sunlight and can be used alongside daytime products without raising the risk of sunburn. It is also compatible with color treated hair and most common skincare actives.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Dihydroxyethyl C8-10 Alkoxypropylamine Oxide differ from one person to another. The following points outline potential side effects that are possible but not expected for the average user provided the product is properly formulated.

  • Transient skin or scalp irritation such as redness stinging or itching
  • Dryness or tightness if used in very high concentrations or in formulas lacking moisturizers
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes before rinsing
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for individuals sensitive to amine oxides

If you notice persistent discomfort swelling or a rash after using a product containing this ingredient discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Dihydroxyethyl C8-10 Alkoxypropylamine Oxide is a fully water soluble surfactant that rinses off cleanly and leaves virtually no oily residue on the skin. Because clogged pores are mainly triggered by heavier oils or waxes that stay on the surface this light amphiphilic molecule has an extremely low chance of blocking follicles. Most rinse-off cleansers containing it are formulated at low percentages which further limits any pore-clogging potential.

Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.

Since it is almost always used in wash-off products its time of contact with skin is short which adds another layer of reassurance for those worried about congestion.

Summary

Dihydroxyethyl C8-10 Alkoxypropylamine Oxide acts as a multitasking surfactant that lifts dirt and oil, boosts foam, cuts down static on hair and keeps watery formulas evenly mixed. Its balanced water-loving and oil-loving structure lets it surround grime so everything can be rinsed away quickly while still leaving hair soft and cooperative.

You will spot it in mainstream shampoos body washes and facial cleansers, though it is not as famous as sulfates or coco-betaine. Formulators appreciate its mildness and solid performance so its presence has been growing quietly year after year.

Current safety data shows a low risk of irritation or sensitization when the ingredient is used at typical levels in rinse-off products. Still every skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product that features this surfactant especially if you have a history of sensitivity.

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