Common Name(s): Sodium cumenesulfonate,scs,sodium isopropylbenzenesulfonate,nacs
CAS Number: 28348-53-0
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Improves how other surfactants mix in water and keeps formulas clear and easy to pour.
Why It's Used: Considered one of the most efficient hydrotropes for anionic surfactant systems due to the branched isopropyl aromatic ring.
How It Works: The isopropylbenzene ring provides maximum hydrotrope efficiency among monoalkylbenzene sulfonates; sodium counterion provides high water solubility; reduces surfactant cloud point significantly per unit concentration.
Typically Found In: Shampoos,liquid cleansers,surfactant concentrates,body washes
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient – surfactant
Secondary Functions: Hydrotrope,viscosity controlling
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Synthetic; cumene (isopropylbenzene) sulfonation + sodium neutralization; petrochemical.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating at typical use levels.
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
Sodium cumenesulfonate is preferred over sodium toluenesulfonate (sts) for its higher hydrotrope efficiency; together with sodium xylenesulfonate (sxs), these three aromatic sulfonates form the primary hydrotrope toolkit for cosmetic surfactant systems.
Last Verified: 2026-03-27
Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary,cas 28348-53-0