Ingredient review
Sodium Maleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer
INCI: SODIUM MALEATE DECYLGLUCOSIDE CROSSPOLYMER
A mild, polymer-based surfactant that boosts foam and reduces irritation, making it a smart choice for sensitive-skin cleansers.
In plain English
This ingredient is a large molecule made by linking a sugar-derived cleanser (decylglucoside) with a salt of maleic acid. Because of its size and structure, it sits on the skin surface and helps create a rich, stable foam without stripping away the skin's natural moisture barrier. It is often used alongside other cleansers to make the whole formula gentler.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Sodium Maleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Sodium Maleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A crosspolymer surfactant — a large, multi-unit molecule formed by chemically bonding decylglucoside (a sugar-based cleanser) with maleate (a salt of maleic acid). This structure gives it mild cleansing and foam-stabilizing properties.
How it works
In a cleanser, it helps water and oil mix so dirt and excess oil can be rinsed away. Its large molecular size means it doesn't penetrate deeply into the skin, so it cleans the surface without disrupting the skin's protective barrier. It also thickens the formula and improves the texture and stability of the foam.
Pros
Gentle on skin
Its large molecular structure means it cleans without stripping the skin's natural oils, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin.
Improves foam quality
It boosts foam volume and stability, so you get a satisfying lather without the harshness of traditional sulfates.
Cons and cautions
Not a standalone cleanser
It works best when combined with other surfactants, so you'll rarely see it as the only cleansing ingredient in a formula.
Limited deep-cleaning power
Because it's so mild, it may not remove heavy makeup or sunscreen as effectively on its own.
Best for
- People with dry or sensitive skin who want a gentle cleanser
- Anyone looking for a sulfate-free, mild foaming cleanser
Use caution if
- Those who prefer non-foaming, oil-based or cream cleansers
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Maleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in the available literature.
Research notes
Research on this specific crosspolymer is limited, but it is structurally related to well-studied mild surfactants like decyl glucoside. Its safety is supported by the widespread use of similar sugar-based surfactants in sensitive-skin products.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–5% in rinse-off cleansers
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally; no known restrictions in the EU, US, or Asia.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Micellar waters
- Environmental note
- Derived from plant-based glucose and synthetic maleic acid; considered biodegradable and more eco-friendly than some traditional surfactants.
Good to know
- It is often listed near the middle or end of an ingredient list because it's used at low concentrations.
- This ingredient is part of a newer generation of 'polymer surfactants' designed to be both effective and mild.
Common questions
What is Sodium Maleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a large molecule made by linking a sugar-derived cleanser (decylglucoside) with a salt of maleic acid. Because of its size and structure, it sits on the skin surface and helps create a rich, stable foam without stripping away the skin's natural moisture barrier. It is often used alongside other cleansers to make the whole formula gentler.
What does Sodium Maleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
In a cleanser, it helps water and oil mix so dirt and excess oil can be rinsed away. Its large molecular size means it doesn't penetrate deeply into the skin, so it cleans the surface without disrupting the skin's protective barrier. It also thickens the formula and improves the texture and stability of the foam.
Is Sodium Maleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Sodium Maleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in the available literature.
Who should be careful with Sodium Maleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer?
Those who prefer non-foaming, oil-based or cream cleansers
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.