A sulfate-free but powerful liquid hand wash utilizing Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate for deep cleansing, preserved with potentially irritating isothiazolinones.
This formulation features a strong cleansing system based on Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine. This combination provides excellent foaming and dirt removal without relying on traditional sulfates like SLS/SLES. The inclusion of Cocamide Methyl MEA and Acrylates Copolymer ensures a thick, stable lather and good product viscosity, leading to a satisfying sensory experience during use.
The safety profile is compromised by the inclusion of Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone (often called the ‘Itchy Ms’). These are potent preservatives with a high rate of contact dermatitis and sensitization, making the product risky for those with eczema or sensitive skin. Additionally, the presence of generic Fragrance introduces potential allergens, and PEG-40 derivatives carry a minor risk of manufacturing impurities. Disodium EDTA is safe but improves the penetration of other ingredients.
This is a highly functional but chemically somewhat harsh hand wash. While it will clean hands very effectively due to its surfactant choice, the formula relies on an older, cheaper preservative system (MCI/MI) that is a known skin sensitizer. It lacks significant moisturizing agents (like glycerin or aloe), suggesting it may be drying with frequent use. It is a standard industrial-grade cleanser rather than a skin-caring formulation.
This formulation presents a functional approach to hand hygiene that moves away from traditional Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) but does not necessarily offer a milder experience. The primary cleansing agent is Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, a strong surfactant known for excellent foaming and degreasing abilities. While it avoids the specific stigma attached to sulfates, it remains a potent cleanser that can be drying if used excessively. It is paired with Cocamidopropyl Betaine, a secondary surfactant derived from coconut oil, which helps to stabilize the foam and provides a slightly softer feel during the wash.
The texture of the product is likely a pleasing, viscous gel, thanks to the inclusion of Acrylates Copolymer and Propylene Glycol Laurate. These ingredients ensure the soap doesn’t run off the hands too quickly, allowing for a thorough scrub. However, the formula lacks significant moisturizing agents. While PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is present, it acts primarily as a solubilizer to help mix the Fragrance into the water base rather than as a deep conditioner for the skin. As a result, users looking for a hydrating or restorative wash may find this product leaves their hands feeling somewhat ‘squeaky’ or tight.
The most significant concern with this ingredient list is the preservation system. It relies on Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone (often called MCI/MI). These are highly effective preservatives, but they are also well-documented contact allergens. In the world of dermatology, they are frequent culprits behind contact dermatitis and skin sensitization. When combined with added Fragrance—another common allergen—the risk of irritation increases significantly for sensitive individuals.
Ultimately, this is a utilitarian cleanser designed for efficacy over gentleness. It will successfully remove dirt, oil, and grime, making it suitable for high-traffic environments or heavy-duty cleaning. However, for a household hand soap intended for frequent daily use, the lack of humectants (like glycerin) and the presence of strong sensitizers make it a suboptimal choice for maintaining long-term skin barrier health.
🧪 Water (Aqua) / 水
Purpose: Dissolves other ingredients; forms the base of the product.
Concerns: None.
Notes: The most common ingredient in liquid cosmetics.
🧪 Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate / C14-16 烯烃磺酸钠
Purpose: Primary cleansing agent responsible for foaming and removing dirt.
Concerns: Can be drying to the skin if used in high concentrations without moisturizing agents.
Notes: An anionic surfactant with strong cleaning power.
🧪 Cocamidopropyl Betaine / 椰油酰胺丙基甜菜碱
Purpose: Secondary surfactant that boosts foam and reduces irritation from stronger surfactants.
Concerns: Impurities formed during manufacturing can sometimes cause allergic reactions.
Notes: Derived from coconut oil; very common in gentle cleansers.
🧪 Propylene Glycol Laurate / 丙二醇月桂酸酯
Purpose: Emollient and viscosity controlling agent; helps condition the skin.
Concerns: Generally considered safe.
Notes: Acts as a skin-conditioning agent.
🧪 Cocamide Methyl MEA / 椰油酰胺甲基 MEA
Purpose: Foam booster and thickener.
Concerns: Generally considered milder than Cocamide DEA, but still monitored for purity.
Notes: Helps stabilize the foam structure.
🧪 Acrylates Copolymer / 丙烯酸（酯）类共聚物
Purpose: Thickening agent and film-former.
Concerns: Generally safe for skin, though biodegradability is an environmental consideration.
Notes: Helps give the hand wash a gel-like consistency.
🧪 PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil / PEG-40 氢化蓖麻油
Purpose: Solubilizer and emulsifier.
Concerns: As a PEG derivative, there are theoretical concerns about contamination (1,4-dioxane) if not purified properly.
Notes: Helps mix fragrance oils into the water base.
🧪 Disodium EDTA / EDTA 二钠
Purpose: Chelating agent; binds to metal ions to prevent spoilage.
Concerns: Can enhance the penetration of other ingredients into the skin.
Notes: Helps maintain product stability and efficacy.
🧪 Methylchloroisothiazolinone / 甲基氯异噻唑啉酮
Purpose: Strong preservative against bacteria and fungi.
Concerns: Known skin sensitizer and allergen; restricted to rinse-off products.
Notes: Often used in combination with Methylisothiazolinone.
🧪 Methylisothiazolinone / 甲基异噻唑啉酮
Purpose: Preservative.
Concerns: High potential for skin irritation and contact dermatitis; strictly regulated.
Notes: Part of the ‘iso-thiazolinone’ preservative family.
🧪 Citric Acid / 柠檬酸
Purpose: pH adjuster.
Concerns: Can be irritating to eyes or broken skin in pure form, but safe in formulated amounts.
Notes: Used to ensure the product pH is compatible with the skin.
🧪 Fragrance (Parfum) / 香精
Purpose: Provides a pleasant scent.
Concerns: A common cause of contact allergies; specific chemical composition is usually undisclosed.
Notes: Synthetic or natural aroma compounds.