Compounds derived from acetone are provided. Particularly, the compounds are derivatives of hydroxyacetone, including dimers of both 1-hydroxyacetone and 1,3-dihydroxyacetone. The hydroxy moieties on the core hydroxyacetone molecule serves as an attachment point for a variety of moieties (e.g., ethers, esters, phosphorous containing, or nitrogen containing) that are selected to provide the compound with a particular property. Applications of the compounds include plasticizers, supersurfactants, and additives for health care products, such as shampoo and perfume.