Sodium Laureth-12 Sulfate

What is Sodium Laureth-12 Sulfate?

Sodium Laureth-12 Sulfate is a synthetic anionic surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol ethoxylated with 12 units of ethylene oxide, then sulfated and neutralized with sodium. Primarily used in rinse-off personal care products like shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, and facial washes, it functions by drastically lowering water's surface tension. This enables it to solubilize oils, lift dirt and sebum into micelles, and facilitate their removal during rinsing. The extended ethoxy chain enhances its water solubility and mildness profile compared to less ethoxylated sulfates. Additionally, it stabilizes emulsions and generates dense, creamy foam, improving product texture and user experience in cleansing formulations.

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

Benefits

Delivers effective dirt and oil removal through micelle formation.

Produces rich, stable lather for enhanced cleansing sensation.

Offers mild cleansing action suitable for frequent rinse-off use.

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 seeking gentle foaming cleansers for hair and body.
Those with sulfate sensitivities or allergies.
Individuals with normal skin preferring surfactant-based washes.
People opting for fully non-sulfate formulations.
Users wanting products that rinse cleanly without residue.
Individuals experiencing irritation from similar surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for cosmetic use in rinse-off products by expert reviews.
  • Low potential for comedogenicity and generally mild on skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sodium Laureth-12 Sulfate

What products contain it?

Common in shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers for foaming and cleansing.

Is it mild?

Yes, its structure provides lower irritation than less ethoxylated sulfates.

Safe for daily use?

Suitable in rinse-off products at typical cosmetic levels.