Amphiphilic

A substance is amphiphilic if it is hydrophilic and lipophilic at the same time. This means that the substance is hygroscopic and oleophilic and dissolves in oil and in water. On an amphiphilic surface, a drop of water and a drop of oil will dissolve in the same manner. Amphiphilic substances are often ingredients of cleaning agents, for example surfactants – these allow dispersions.