Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate

Benefits

Cleansing

What is Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate?

Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate is a synthetic anionic surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol, which undergoes ethoxylation followed by reaction with succinic anhydride and sulfonation to form its disodium salt. Commonly found in rinse-off personal care products such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and bubble baths, it serves as a key functional ingredient. By reducing the surface tension of water, it enables effective removal of oils, dirt, and residues from skin and hair. Its mild nature supports frequent use, while its foaming properties create stable, creamy lather for even product distribution. Additionally, it acts as a hydrotrope, enhancing the solubility of hydrophobic components like fragrances and essential oils in aqueous formulas, preventing phase separation and maintaining product clarity and stability throughout shelf life.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 2 View on EWG →

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.

Foam booster

Enhances foam volume and creaminess and can stabilize lather, improving sensory feel and perceived cleansing in shampoos and wash-off products.

Hydrotrope

Improves solubility of poorly soluble ingredients (like fragrances) in water-based systems, helping maintain clarity and prevent separation or cloudiness.

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 yet gentle cleansing by lifting dirt and excess oils.

Produces rich, stable foam for improved product spreadability and user experience.

Enhances formula clarity by solubilizing hard-to-dissolve ingredients.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking mild surfactants in daily cleansers.	People with known allergies to sulfosuccinate compounds.
Users preferring products with creamy lather in shampoos and washes.	Individuals sensitive to ethoxylated surfactants.
Those needing clear, stable formulations with fragrances.	Users opting strictly for non-sulfate cleansing agents.

Safety Notes

Considered safe for cosmetic use by regulatory expert panels.
Low potential for skin and eye irritation in typical concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate

What products contain Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate?

Commonly used in shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers for its mild cleansing.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, it offers gentle action with lower irritation than many traditional surfactants.

Does it create good foam?

It boosts foam volume and stability for a luxurious lather experience.