Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate

Sulfate Surfactant
Benefits
Cleansing

What is Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate?

Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate is the ammonium salt derived from sulfating lauryl alcohol, typically sourced from coconut or palm kernel oils, followed by neutralization with ammonia. This synthetic anionic surfactant appears in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and bubble baths. It works by disrupting the cohesive forces at interfaces, allowing water to mix with oils and spread evenly. In products, it generates micelles—spherical structures that trap dirt, sebum, and residues—lifting them away during rinsing. Its foaming ability creates stable bubbles under agitation, improving product feel and distribution. Often paired with other surfactants for balanced performance, it supports emulsification in some formulations, making it a staple in personal cleansing routines for effective, refreshing results.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Foaming
Generates foam during use to help distribute the product and lift soils; typically delivered by surfactants that create stable bubbles under agitation.

Benefits

Delivers effective cleansing action to remove dirt, oil, and impurities.

Produces rich foam to aid even product application and rinsing.

Non-comedogenic, minimizing pore blockage risk.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users with normal to oily skin seeking thorough daily cleansing.
Those with sensitive skin prone to irritation.
Individuals preferring foaming shampoos or body washes.
Individuals with dry or compromised skin barriers.
People with non-sensitive scalps or hair needing degreasing.
Users experiencing reactions to sulfate-based cleansers.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard in standard cosmetic concentrations.
  • Safe for use in rinse-off products according to safety assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate

What does Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to lower surface tension, cleanse by forming micelles, and create foam.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

It may irritate sensitive skin; milder alternatives exist for those prone to reactions.

How common is it in cosmetics?

Frequently used in shampoos, body washes, and cleansers for its cleansing and foaming properties.