Quick answer
Cleansing agent that is noted in research for its gentleness on skin; Praised for delivering a “dense, luxurious foam and elegant after-feel”; Can be naturally derived from coconuts; Deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel
Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate
Updated
Dodecanoic acid, methyl-2-sulfoethyl ester, sodium salt (1:1)
Purpose
Naturally-derived cleansing agent that is noted in research for its gentleness on skin.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Cleansing Agent
INCI Purpose
CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING
Alternative Names
Hair Profile
Functions
At a Glance
Cleansing agent that is noted in research for its gentleness on skin
Praised for delivering a “dense, luxurious foam and elegant after-feel”
Can be naturally derived from coconuts
Deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel
Article
Sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate is a cleansing agent that is noted in research for its gentleness on skin. It is known to play well with other ingredients, showing excellent formulary compatibility in body washes, facial cleansers, and shampoos.
Suppliers of this surfactant praise its “dense, luxurious foam and elegant after-feel,” as well as its ability to easily rinse from skin.
As a raw material, sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate takes shape as white to off-white flakes/chips. It’s also supplied as a clear light-yellow liquid. Like many surfactants, it can be naturally derived from coconuts, with the final version considered plant-derived or synthetic depending on manufacturing practices.
In 2017, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate safe as used in personal care products. Their report looked at products containing up to 10.1% concentration.
See: Surfactant
References