Have you ever seen an advertisement telling you to use a 'surfactant-free' cleanser?

Before you buy into it, ask yourself the following questions and check the real facts. 

What exactly is a surfactant? 

A surfactant is a substance that activates the surface of a liquid so that water and oil can mix. The name comes from "Surface-Active Agent." In simpler terms, you can think of it as a surface tension reducer. 

Role 1: Emulsifier 

Surfactants are used as emulsifiers in cosmetics that contain both water and oil. They allow these two opposing substances to blend, creating the opaque, milky liquid we know as an emulsion (essences, lotions, and creams). 

[Emulsification: The process of mixing two immiscible liquids by adding a surfactant, dispersing one liquid into the other to create a stable emulsion.] 

Role 2: Cleansing Agent 

By utilizing its unique properties, surfactants act as a cleanser by allowing skin impurities and oils to mix with water and be rinsed away. This principle applies not only to facial cleansers but also to shampoos and all types of detergents. To remove oily residue, water alone isn't enough—you must have a surfactant. 

The Bottom Line: There is no such thing as a surfactant-free cleanser. 

Despite this scientific fact, many brands continue to use "surfactant-free" as a marketing tactic, hoping to catch misinformed consumers. 

Relieve skin tightness with Cica Soap