Certified Global Research Member
Isomar fd.webp Wcrc 57.webp
Key Questions Answered
  • Global Market Outlook
  • In-depth analysis of global and regional trends
  • Analyze and identify the major players in the market, their market share, key developments, etc.
  • To understand the capability of the major players based on products offered, financials, and strategies.
  • Identify disrupting products, companies, and trends.
  • To identify opportunities in the market.
  • Analyze the key challenges in the market.
  • Analyze the regional penetration of players, products, and services in the market.
  • Comparison of major players’ financial performance.
  • Evaluate strategies adopted by major players.
  • Recommendations
Why Choose Market Research Future?
  • Vigorous research methodologies for specific market.
  • Knowledge partners across the globe
  • Large network of partner consultants.
  • Ever-increasing/ Escalating data base with quarterly monitoring of various markets
  • Trusted by fortune 500 companies/startups/ universities/organizations
  • Large database of 5000+ markets reports.
  • Effective and prompt pre- and post-sales support.

Natural Surfactants Market Analysis

ID: MRFR//10018-HCR | 128 Pages | Author: Priya Nagrale| May 2024

The current beneficial greater lifetime of natural surfactants compared to synthetic types is a leading trend in the market, which promotes a targeted demand for environmentally-friendly and sustainable products. Among surfactants, or surface-active agents, soapy cleaning solutions and formulated products for personal care undoubtedly hold great importance. In the recent past the society has shown a remarkable growing sensitivity toward the sustainability of using chemical-based surfactants as a result consumer have shown an increased curves in their preferences for natural alternatives.

The growing threat of environmental insecurity is found to be serving as one of the major motivating factors of the market landscaping. With this growth in awareness, citizens are becoming more cautious of the aftermath of their choices, thus surfactants which are naturally occurring and derived from renewable sources continue to be looked for by the producers. There is a significant connection between this trend and the global movement aimed at decreasing the amount of carbon emissions while increasing investments in eco-friendly technologies. Consequently, the melting players are seizing the moment and investing in developing research and development of the innovative pseudo natural surfactant formulas that not only would meet the performance standards but also follow the strict environmental regulations.

The cosmetic and personal care industry is an important segment in the surfactants market which is also the driving force of natural surfactants in the market. With consumers being much more into natural and organic style beauty products, production companies have to change their offerings so as to include natural and biodegradable cleansers. Where traditional detergent chemicals are derived from petroleum or chemical compounds, these surfactants are now plant-based or other bio-based materials tailored toward the demand for milder formulations that do not compromise on the effectiveness of the product. This shift is forcing product manufacturers to re-think product mixes and, consequently, branding and advertising campaigns among them.

Furthermore there is the increasing use of environmentally friendlier surfactants in the agriculture sector as well. They are able to do so through the formulations of agricultural products like the pesticides and the herbicides, to give better performance. If one looks deeper, one can see that the sustainable and organic agriculture tendency together with the natural surfactants concept that are safer and less harmful to the environment makes the demand for natural surfactants increase more and more. The agribusiness sector is continually finding greener alternatives to solve their production challenges, and natural surfactant has its part to play by benefiting from the green shift.

Another issues that change market behavior is regulating condition. Governments world wide are putting more control on the way in which certain chemicals such as those in shooting are used by consumers. Due to the nature of the residuals from surrogate substances, their increased analysis and use of the natural ingredients emerged among producers. In addition to market access, compliance with environmental compliance ensures good company image which creates more following toward natural surfactant demand.

Global Natural Surfactants Market Overview


Natural Surfactants Market Size was valued at USD 19.2 Billion in 2022. The Natural Surfactants market is projected to grow from USD 20.0 Billion in 2023 to USD 27.8 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.20% during the forecast period (2023 - 2032). The introduction of strict regulations on the use of conventional surfactants, rising demand for environmentally friendly, biodegradable products, and growing environmental concern about surfactants globally have caused governments and businesses to take an interest in natural surfactants, which are the key market drivers boosting market growth.Natural Surfactants Market OverviewSource: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


Natural Surfactants Market Trends




  • Increasing demand for detergents is driving the market growth




Examples of household detergents that are sold in stores include carpet cleaners, laundry detergents, and dishwasher detergents. About half of the total usage of natural surfactants comes from this sector. Laundry detergents' main function is to remove dirt from clothing so that it can be suspended in the water while being washed. In the last rinse, fabric softeners are used. Dishwasher detergents use surfactants to moisten surfaces and help remove soil. To stop the dishwasher from foaming, automated dishwasher detergents include less surfactant than manual dishwashing detergents. To stop the dishwasher from foaming, automatic dishwasher detergents include less surfactant than hand dishwashing detergents. Sales of automated and hand dishwashing detergent are about equal in pounds.


The first to adopt non-petroleum-based products are shoppers in Western Europe and Japan, who appear to be more conscious of environmental concerns around surfactant use. Oleochemical-based surfactants caught the attention of both customers and consumer product formulators in 2007–2008 because to the sharp increase in the price of crude oil. The main factors influencing market acceptance at the moment are environmental concerns, the enforcement of regulations, and changing oil prices. The industrial manufacturing of detergents and cosmetics, two industries where environmental concerns are more common, is anticipated to have a significant impact on the demand for natural surfactants. Designing formulations organically rather than through chemical channels is preferable because protection is so crucial in the cosmetics sector.


It is believed that the industrial activities in the more heavily environmental-conscious industries of detergents and cosmetics will have a significant impact on the total demand for natural surfactants. The development of items organically is advantageous since it is more secure than chemical pathways due to the significance of safety in the cosmetics business. Thus, driving the natural surfactants market revenue.


Natural Surfactants Market Segment Insights


Natural Surfactants Product Insights


Based on product, the natural surfactants market is segmented into Anionics, Nonionics, Cationics, and Amphoterics. Anionic category dominate the surfactant market, which includes uses in dishwashing and laundry. The three most prevalent anionic surfactants in terms of volume are linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS), alcohol ether sulfates (AES), and alpha-olefin sulfonates (AOS). The two major sustainable anionic surfactants, alcohol ether sulfate (AES) and methyl ester sulfonate (MES), are produced from palm or coconut oil. MES can be used in place of LAS because it is biodegradable.


Figure 1: Natural Surfactants Market, by Product, 2022 & 2032 (USD Billion)Natural Surfactants Market, by ProductSource: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


Natural Surfactants Application Insights


On the basis of the application, the bio-based surfactants market is classified into detergents, industrial & institutional, personal care, oilfield chemicals, and others. The detergents segment accounted for the largest share of the global market and is expected to grow rapidly during the forecast period. Due to the growing adoption of washing machines in developing nations, demand is anticipated to increase. A number of vendors set up factories in developing nations where there are abundant business opportunities in an effort to increase their footprint. The rising use of washing machines in homes in developing nations' economy supports this tendency. For instance, Indian consumers overwhelmingly favored fully automated washing machines to semi-automatic ones. In general, urban areas have a higher need for washing machines than rural ones.


Natural Surfactants Regional Insights


By Region, the study provides the market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of the World. In 2022, the European natural surfactants market held a highest share. It is anticipated that the rising demand for oilfield chemicals and detergents will propel regional market expansion. One of the main factors propelling the market's expansion is the rising acceptance of bio-based products as a result of widespread knowledge about the harmful effects of chemical surfactants on the environment and human health. Further, the German natural surfactants market held the largest market share, and the U.K. natural surfactants market was the fastest growing market in the European region.


Further, the major countries studied in the market report are The U.S., Canada, German, France, the U.K., Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.


Figure 2: NATURAL SURFACTANTS MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (%)NATURAL SURFACTANTS MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


Owing to a number of variables, including governmental regulations and the rising demand for chemical-free surfactants, North America natural surfactants market maintained a sizable stake. Due to the possible harmful effects of conventional surfactants on the skin, consumers' preferences for natural goods and components are expected to shift in a significant way. For instance, surfactants that satisfy the safer choice requirements are authorized for use in safer choice products, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Further, the U.S. natural surfactants market held the largest market share, and the Canada natural surfactants market was the fastest growing market in the North America region.


In terms of industrialization and growth, the Asia-Pacific natural surfactants market is among those that are expanding quickly. The region's expansion will be fueled by the growing investments made by multinational businesses to establish industrial facilities in South Asian nations like China, India, South Korea, and others due to the accessibility of labor and raw materials. Also, the industry will benefit from the rising demand for detergent and personal care goods brought on by a huge population. Moreover, China’s natural surfactants market held the largest market share, and the Indian natural surfactants market was the fastest growing market in the Asia-Pacific region.


Natural Surfactants Key Market Players & Competitive Insights


Leading market players are investing heavily in research and development in order to expand their product lines, which will help the Natural Surfactants market, grow even more. Market participants are also undertaking a variety of strategic activities to expand their global footprint, with important market developments including new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, higher investments, and collaboration with other organizations. To expand and survive in a more competitive and rising market climate, Natural Surfactants industry must offer cost-effective items.


Manufacturing locally to minimize operational costs is one of the key business tactics used by manufacturers in the global Natural Surfactants industry to benefit clients and increase the market sector. In recent years, the Natural Surfactants industry has offered some of the most significant advantages to medicine. Major players in the Natural Surfactants market, including BASF SE, Clariant AG, Croda International Plc., WHEATOLEO, The Dow Chemical Company, CECA Arkema Group, SEPPIC, Evonik Industries, and Innovative Chemical Technologies.


Material science is the focus of Dow Inc. (Dow). The Dow Chemical Co., the company's wholly owned subsidiary, conducts business on its behalf (TDCC). Plastics, performance materials, coatings, silicones, and industrial intermediates make up the company's product line. For customers in the packaging, infrastructure, mobility, and consumer care areas, the company offers a variety of goods and services. Several industries, including home and personal care, durable goods, adhesives and sealants, coatings, and food and specialty packaging, use Dow's products. It has activities throughout Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, the Asia-Pacific region, and North America. The U.S. state of Michigan's Midland serves as the home of Dow. A deal between Dow and Locus Performance Ingredients to distribute Locus PI's portfolio of sophorolipid biosurfactants to the personal care sector was announced in February 2022. The collaboration will bring together Locus PI's experience in fermentation and capacity to create specialized biosurfactant components with Dow's formulation know-how and market reach in the personal care sector.


Specialty chemical firm Evonik Industries AG (Evonik), a division of RAG-Stiftung. Surfactants, polymers, resins, additives, among other things, are included in its product line. Agriculture, alternative energy, paints and coatings, paper and printing, metal and oil products, electrical and electronics, food and animal feed, personal care and cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, plastics and rubber, automotive, and construction are just a few of the industries where the company's products are used. Moreover, it provides engineering, logistics, utilities, and process technology services. Major production facilities for Evonik are located in China, Singapore, Belgium, the U.S., and Germany. In addition to other places, the corporation also operates in North America, Asia-Pacific, Africa, South America, and Europe. Essen, in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany, serves as the headquarters for Evonik. Evonik held a groundbreaking ceremony today to mark the beginning of work on the first commercial rhamnolipid production facility in the world, which is scheduled to open in June 2022. At Slovakia's biotech hotspot of Evonik, the new biosurfactant plant represents a triple-digit million euro investment. This will further solidify the Slovenská upa location as a key biotechnology hub and establish Evonik as a market leader in high-quality, sustainable biosurfactants.


Key Companies in the Natural Surfactants market include



Natural Surfactants Industry Developments


March 2021 - With the acquisition, BASF improved its position in bio-based surfactants for industrial and home care formulators. The company formed a strategic partnership with U.K.-based Holiferm ltd. in order to create a cutting-edge method of manufacturing bio-based surfactants..


August 2020 - Lamesoft Balance, a 100% organically derived surfactant, has been introduced, according to BASF. In formulations for hair and skin washing, the surfactant, which is voluntarily biodegradable, successfully stabilizes the wax based diffusion.


December 2019 - To introduce a new green cleaning chemical, Evonik Industries and Unilever collaborated. The businesses made the decision to use a naturally existing process to create the effective grease- and dirt-removing natural surfactant rhamnolipids.


Natural Surfactants Market Segmentation


Natural Surfactants Product Outlook



  • Anionics

  • Nonionics

  • Cationics

  • Amphoterics


Natural Surfactants Application Outlook



  • Detergents

  • Industrial & Institutional

  • Personal Care

  • Oilfield Chemicals

  • Others


Natural Surfactants Regional Outlook



  • North America

    • US.

    • Canada



  • Europe

    • Germany

    • France

    • UK.

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Rest of Europe



  • Asia-Pacific

    • China

    • Japan

    • India

    • Australia

    • South Korea

    • Australia

    • Rest of Asia-Pacific



  • Rest of the World

    • Middle East

    • Africa

    • Latin America



Leading companies partner with us for data-driven Insights
client_1 client_2 client_3 client_4 client_5 client_6 client_7 client_8 client_9 client_10
Kindly complete the form below to receive a free sample of this Report
Please fill in Business Email for Quick Response

We do not share your information with anyone. However, we may send you emails based on your report interest from time to time. You may contact us at any time to opt-out.

Purchase Option
Single User $ 4,950
Multiuser License $ 5,950
Enterprise User $ 7,250
Compare Licenses
Tailored for You
  • Dedicated Research on any specifics segment or region.
  • Focused Research on specific players in the market.
  • Custom Report based only on your requirements.
  • Flexibility to add or subtract any chapter in the study.
  • Historic data from 2014 and forecasts outlook till 2040.
  • Flexibility of providing data/insights in formats (PDF, PPT, Excel).
  • Provide cross segmentation in applicable scenario/markets.