ABSTRACT
The survey of surfactants in Chapter 1 reveals that the surfactants used in cosmetics are relatively simple and stable chemicals. Functional groups in these organic substances include primarily ethers, esters, amines, and amide types of linkages. The chemical nature of these functional groups and their decomposition under adverse conditions are well known to organic chemists. As a result, the stability of these compounds can be assessed on the basis of general chemical principles and does not require complicated and detailed studies. In addition, the use of surfactants in cosmetic products takes place under chemically mild conditions and at low temperatures. It is reasonable, therefore, to characterize surfactants as chemically stable in cosmetic usage.
