Decyl Glucoside
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
Primarily used as a surfactant (cleansing agent)
At a glance
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Decyl Glucoside?
Decyl glucoside is primarily used for its surfactant (cleansing) properties. While most common in facial and body cleansers, you can also find decyl glucoside in products such as self-tanners, sunscreens, and liquid foundations where it may function as an emulsion stabilizer.\n\nDecyl glucoside is obtained from the condensation of glucose + the fatty alcohol decanol, which comes from coconuts. Its mildness makes it popular for use in baby shampoos. This ingredient is known for producing desirable foaming properties.\n\nAs a raw material, decyl glucoside is described as a water-soluble, clear to slightly hazy yellow or amber viscous liquid.\n\nIn 2013, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed decyl glucoside “safe in the present practices of use and concentration when formulated to be nonirritating.” Their report looked at rinse-off products containing up to 33% and only up to 2% for leave-on formulas.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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UL Prospector, Accessed October 2021, ePublication UL Prospector, 2021
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Dermatitis, November-December 2017, pages 342–345 Dermatitis, 2017
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International Journal of Toxicology, September-October 2013, pages 22S–48S International Journal of Toxicology, 2013
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- DECYL GLUCOSIDE
- EC Number
- 259-218-1
- Function
- Cleansing, Emulsion Stabilising, Surfactant
From the Clinic
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Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen
A coconut-derived conditioning agent that cleanses whilst supporting skin and hair hydration
Cocoyl Methyl Glucamide
A coconut-derived surfactant that cleanses whilst conditioning skin and hair
Decyl Alcohol
A fatty alcohol that conditions and stabilises formulations
Di-PPG-2 Myreth-10 Adipate
A lightweight emollient that conditions and softens skin whilst supporting product texture
Diethanolaminooleamide DEA
A surfactant that stabilises foam and texture in cleansing formulations
Diphenylsiloxy Phenyl Trimethicone
A silicone polymer that smooths texture and conditions skin without heavy residue
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