The demand for mild, skin-friendly surfactants is one of the drivers for the green surfactants market. These surfactants are likely to replace hasher conventional surfactants that may harm the skin. Furthermore, the increased awareness and regulation of 1,4 dioxane, a by-product found in many products has led to consumers seeking for sulfate-free options.

To cater to these demands, manufacturers are formulating products using green surfactants e.g. Alkyl Polyglucosides and amino acid surfactants and one major challenge they face is reaching their target viscosity.  The most common way to thicken surfactant-based formulations is to use Sodium Chloride. However, this only works well for surfactant systems based on Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) and Cocamidopropyl Betaine. Other gelling agents like Xanthan Gum, Cellulose types and Carbomer types are suitable for any formulation of high water content. Here, we have put together an overview on thickeners and a  guide on green surfactants thickening that will help you select the right thickener to achieve your desired viscosity.