Sodium C12-14 Olefin Sulfonate

What is Sodium C12-14 Olefin Sulfonate?

Sodium C12-14 Olefin Sulfonate is a synthetic anionic surfactant made by sulfonating alpha-olefins containing 12 to 14 carbon atoms, usually sourced from petrochemical feedstocks. Commonly found in rinse-off personal care items such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and bubble baths, it functions by reducing water's surface tension. This action enables the formation of micelles—tiny structures that trap oils, dirt, and residues—allowing them to be rinsed away easily. It excels at producing dense, stable foam that persists in different water conditions, enhancing the cleansing experience without overly drying the skin or hair. Its structure provides strong detergency while offering a balance of mildness in formulations.

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.
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 dirt and oil removal through micelle formation.

Creates rich, long-lasting foam for even product spread.

Works well in cleansers for hair, body, and face.

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 seeking strong cleansing with good lather in daily routines.
Individuals with known sensitivities to sulfonate surfactants.
People with normal skin types using shampoos or showers.
People prone to eye irritation during cleansing.
Those preferring alternatives to traditional sulfates in washes.
Those preferring fully natural or non-synthetic ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Low comedogenic rating, unlikely to clog pores.
  • Generally suitable for rinse-off products at typical levels.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sodium C12-14 Olefin Sulfonate

What does Sodium C12-14 Olefin Sulfonate do in products?

It lowers surface tension to cleanse by forming micelles and generates foam for better distribution.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Rated low hazard; often milder than harsher surfactants, but test if sensitive.

Where is it commonly used?

In shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers for rinsing off impurities.