Common Name(s): Sodium trehalose octenylsuccinate,modified trehalose amphiphile,protein-stabilising emulsifier
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides trehalose's protein-stabilising desiccation protection in emulsified formulations while the octenylsuccinate group provides mild amphiphilic emulsification — combining two normally separate functions in one ingredient.
Why It's Used: The octenylsuccinate modification enables trehalose use in emulsified systems where unmodified trehalose would function only as a humectant — expanding the application scope while retaining the unique protein-stabilising chemistry.
How It Works: Trehalose hydroxyl groups form h-bonds with protein surface residues replacing the water hydration shell during dehydration — preventing protein unfolding. the c8 octenylsuccinate at trehalose c6 provides a hydrocarbon chain for lipid-phase anchoring and mild interfacial emulsification activity without disrupting trehalose's protein-binding geometry.
Typically Found In: Premium skin care,natural emulsions,barrier repair
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient – humectant
Secondary Functions: Tewl reduction,skin plumping
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%–3%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Synthetic or naturally derived. excellent aqueous solubility.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; suitable for all skin types.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Ceramides,emollients,occlusives,glycerin,hyaluronic acid
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Osa (octenylsuccinate) modification is gras-classified in food (modified starch) and cosmos conditionally accepted from renewable cellulose or starch precursors — the same chemistry applied to trehalose provides clean-label emulsification.
Last Verified: 2026-03-12
Primary Sources: Cosing database,sodium trehalose octenylsuccinate modified sugar amphiphile review