Disodium Oleamido Mea Sulfosuccinate

What is Disodium Oleamido Mea Sulfosuccinate?

Disodium Oleamido MEA Sulfosuccinate is a synthetic anionic surfactant produced by esterifying sulfosuccinic acid with oleamide monoethanolamide, where oleamide derives from oleic acid—a common unsaturated fatty acid found in vegetable oils—and monoethanolamide is a fatty acid ethanolamide. It belongs to the sulfosuccinate class of surfactants, prized in cosmetics for their balance of cleansing efficacy and mildness. Primarily featured in rinse-off formulations like shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and bubble baths, it operates by reducing surface tension between water and oils or dirt, enabling micelle formation that encapsulates impurities for easy rinsing. Its amide structure contributes to lower irritation potential compared to harsher sulfates, while supporting foam generation and ingredient solubilization in water-based systems, ensuring product stability and pleasant texture during use.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1 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.

Benefits

Provides effective yet gentle cleansing by lifting dirt and oils without harsh stripping.

Boosts rich, stable lather for a luxurious washing experience in shampoos and washes.

Enhances solubility of other ingredients, promoting clear, uniform product formulations.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
People with sensitive skin seeking mild cleansers.	Those with known allergies to fatty acid derivatives or ethanolamides.
Individuals preferring foam-rich shampoos and body washes.	People experiencing irritation from sulfosuccinate surfactants.
Users of water-based products needing better ingredient stability.	Individuals with very dry skin preferring non-surfactant cleansers.

Safety Notes

Rated low hazard by EWG, indicating minimal health concerns in typical use.
Considered safe for rinse-off products by cosmetic safety reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions about Disodium Oleamido Mea Sulfosuccinate

What products commonly contain this ingredient?

Found in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and bubble baths for its mild cleansing properties.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its mild profile makes it a good choice for sensitive skin in rinse-off products.

Does it cause comedones?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, unlikely to clog pores.