Used as a surfactant and emulsifying agent in cosmetic and personal care formulations such as creams, lotions, and cleansers. It helps stabilize mixtures of oil and water, improving product texture and consistency. Also functions as a mild detergent in cleaning products due to its ability to lower surface tension and lift dirt and grease. Its biodegradable nature makes it suitable for environmentally friendly formulations. In skin care products, it can enhance the penetration of active ingredients. Additionally, it acts as a corrosion inhibitor in some industrial applications and is occasionally used in the synthesis of other organic compounds.