Cleaning surfactant (PLANTAPON® SF_BASF)

This cosmetic raw material is a blend of plant-derived surfactants, obtained primarily from coconut and palm oil, glucose and sodium glutamate. It also contains synthetic components such as sodium monochloroacetate and monochloroacetic acid, together with aminoethylethanolamine. The manufacturer, BASF, supplies it as a ready-made, sulphate-free, non-ethoxylated blend, certified for natural cosmetics under Ecocert and Cosmos standards. It is a clear to pale yellow, water-soluble liquid with a characteristic detergent scent and an active matter content of approximately 30 %. It is produced by combining amphoteric, non-ionic and anionic surfactants, ensuring stability and ease of use in formulations without the need for heating.

The blend acts as a gentle cleansing surfactant with an amphoteric structure that allows micelles to form with both positive and negative charges on the molecular head. It cleanses effectively by mixing water with oil, removing dirt, grease and residues without drying out the skin. It produces a rich, creamy lather with excellent stability that rinses off easily, even in hard water. At a concentration of 20-50 %, it serves as a primary surfactant, increases viscosity without thickeners and helps condition the hair. It is compatible with anionic, non-ionic and amphoteric surfactants, improving overall cleansing performance.

It is recommended for dry, sensitive, dehydrated and irritated skin, as well as oily and acne-prone skin, as it does not strip away natural moisture or compromise the skin barrier. It is ideal for baby products, shampoos, shower gels, soaps and facial cleansing emulsions. Its gentle formula makes it suitable for all age groups, including infants, and for mature skin prone to dryness. Specifically, it is used in formulations with a final pH of 4-5.5 for optimal viscosity and stability.

A study confirms its exceptional mildness: in patch tests and eye irritation tests, it showed minimal irritation on sensitive skin, with only 3 out of 11 atopic subjects showing a positive reaction to a 5 % concentration of Sodium Cocoamphoacetate (Safety Assessment of Amphoacetates as Used in Cosmetics, CIR, 2023). Further data show a critical micelle concentration of 8.2 mM at 25 °C with an aggregation number of 62, supporting effective cleansing without harshness (Ataman Chemicals).