What Is Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate?
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate is a synthetic ingredient created by reacting long-chain fatty alcohols, mainly from coconut or palm oil, with ethylene oxide and then with phosphoric acid. The result is a sodium salt that carries about ten units of ethylene oxide on average. This balanced mix of oil-loving and water-loving parts lets it interact well with both oils and water.
Chemists first explored this class of phosphate esters in the 1970s while looking for gentler alternatives to the harsh detergents then common in shampoos and facial cleansers. Over time, improved production methods made it cost-effective, and formulators noticed that it boosted foam quality and helped blend oily and watery ingredients. Since the early 1990s it has shown up in many personal care products.
Production starts with fatty alcohols that are ethoxylated to add the desired number of ethylene oxide units. These ethoxylated alcohols are then reacted with phosphoric acid to form diesters before neutralizing with sodium hydroxide to give the final sodium salt. The process is done under controlled temperatures and pressures to keep by-products low.
Today you will most likely find Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate in facial cleansers, body washes, micellar waters, shampoo, lightweight lotions, sunscreens and some liquid makeup bases where even texture and easy rinse-off are important.
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators like this ingredient because it delivers two key performance benefits that improve both the feel and stability of a product.
- Cleansing: Its surfactant nature lowers surface tension so water can mix with dirt and oil, allowing them to be lifted away easily during rinse-off. This gives a gentle yet thorough cleanse that does not strip skin or hair.
- Emulsifying: It helps oil and water stay blended, preventing separation in creams, lotions and wash-off products. A stable emulsion means a smoother texture, consistent dosing of active ingredients and a longer shelf life.
Who Can Use Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate
Because it is a gentle cleansing and emulsifying agent, Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate tends to suit most skin types including normal, oily, combination and even sensitive skin. Those with very dry or compromised skin may want to pair it with richer moisturizers since any surfactant can lift away some natural oils, though this ingredient is milder than many common cleansers.
The fatty alcohols used to make Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate are normally sourced from coconut or palm oil, so the finished material is typically free from animal products and is therefore suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If strict vegan status is essential, check with the brand to confirm plant sourcing and cruelty-free processing.
Current cosmetic safety reviews list it as safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding because it stays on the skin’s surface and is rinsed away easily. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run skincare choices past a doctor just to be on the safe side.
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance-free and dye-free which reduces the chance of additional reactivity.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential issues but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation
- Dryness or tight feeling if used in very high concentrations or with other strong cleansers
- Eye irritation if the product gets into the eyes before rinsing
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for individuals sensitive to phosphate esters or ethoxylated ingredients
If any redness, itching or other discomfort develops while using a product that contains Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate stop use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate is a water-soluble surfactant that rinses off easily, so it does not sit on the skin long enough to clog pores. Its molecular structure is balanced between oil-loving and water-loving segments, and the phosphate salt form keeps it lightweight and non-filmy. Because of this, it is unlikely to trigger blackheads or whiteheads.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin types.
Note that an entire formula’s comedogenicity depends on every ingredient, so even a low-risk ingredient like this can behave differently in a heavy or greasy base.
Summary
Sodium Diceteareth-10 Phosphate works mainly as a gentle cleanser and an emulsifier. The surfactant portion lowers surface tension so water can lift away dirt and oil while the phosphate ester helps keep oil and water phases blended for a smooth stable texture.
It is not the most famous skincare star but formulators appreciate it for its mildness and versatility so it shows up quietly in many cleansers shampoos and lightweight lotions.
Current safety reviews rate it as low risk for irritation or sensitization when used as directed. Still patch test any new product containing this ingredient to make sure it agrees with your individual skin.