Magnesium Oleth Sulfate

What is Magnesium Oleth Sulfate?

Magnesium Oleth Sulfate is an anionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating oleyl alcohol—derived from oleic acid in vegetable oils or animal fats—then sulfating the product and neutralizing it with magnesium. This creates a compound with a hydrophilic sulfate head and hydrophobic oleyl chain, ideal for rinse-off cosmetics like shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and bubble baths. It functions by lowering water's surface tension, forming micelles that trap oils, dirt, and impurities for easy rinsing. The ethoxy groups enhance solubility and mildness, while the magnesium ion provides a smooth after-feel and potential rinse-aid properties in hard water. Commonly paired with other surfactants, it boosts foam volume and stability without excessive stripping of natural lipids.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 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.

Benefits

Gentle cleansing action removes impurities while preserving moisture balance

Generates creamy, abundant foam for enhanced user experience

Emulsifies oils effectively in cleansing 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 normal or oily skin and hair needing reliable foam
Individuals with surfactant sensitivities
Users of daily shampoos and body washes
People opting for fully non-sulfate cleansers
Those seeking cost-effective, high-performing surfactants
Those with rare allergies to fatty alcohol derivatives

Safety Notes

  • EWG hazard score ranges 1-3 indicating low concern
  • Non-comedogenic rating of 0 suggests minimal pore-clogging risk

Frequently Asked Questions about Magnesium Oleth Sulfate

What role does Magnesium Oleth Sulfate play in products?

Acts as a surfactant to cleanse, foam, and emulsify in shampoos and washes.

Is Magnesium Oleth Sulfate comedogenic?

Rated 0, unlikely to contribute to clogged pores.

How mild is it compared to other sulfates?

Ethoxylation makes it gentler on skin and hair.