Common Name(s): Potassium cumenesulfonate,potassium isopropylbenzenesulfonate,pks

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Helps other surfactants dissolve and mix better in water-based products to keep formulas clear.

Why It's Used: Used as a hydrotrope in shampoos and cleansers to improve cloud point and reduce viscosity of concentrated surfactant systems.

How It Works: The isopropyl-substituted benzene ring provides higher hydrophobicity than xylenesulfonate, making cumenesulfonate one of the most efficient hydrotropes; disrupts surfactant micellar structure to reduce viscosity and increase cloud point.

Typically Found In: Shampoos,liquid soaps,surfactant concentrates,industrial cleaners

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – surfactant

Secondary Functions: Hydrotrope,viscosity controlling

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Synthetic; derived from cumene (petrochemical isopropylbenzene) sulfonation with potassium neutralization.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating at typical use levels. gras-like safety profile for hydrotrope use.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1–2.

Works Well With: Anionic surfactants,amphoteric surfactants,nonionic surfactants

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Cumenesulfonates are superior hydrotropes to xylenesulfonates due to the branched isopropyl group increasing hydrophobic character; potassium form preferred for stability in high-electrolyte systems.

Last Verified: Cosing database,inci dictionary,supplier technical sheets

Primary Sources: 2026-03-27