Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfolaurate

What is Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfolaurate?

Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfolaurate is an anionic surfactant chemically derived from lauric acid, a fatty acid sourced from coconut or palm kernel oils. It is manufactured by first esterifying lauric acid with methanol to produce methyl laurate, followed by sulfonation at the alpha position (2-position) and neutralization with sodium hydroxide, resulting in a water-soluble salt. This ingredient belongs to the sulfolaurate family and is primarily used in rinse-off personal care products like body washes, shampoos, facial cleansers, and bubble baths. In formulations, it functions by reducing surface tension between water, oils, and dirt, enabling micelle formation that lifts impurities for easy rinsing. It also supports emulsification of oils in water-based systems and generates rich, stable foam under agitation, contributing to effective yet gentle cleaning without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 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.
Foaming
Generates foam during use to help distribute the product and lift soils; typically delivered by surfactants that create stable bubbles under agitation.

Benefits

Provides effective cleansing by removing dirt and oils through micelle formation.

Delivers abundant, creamy foam for better product distribution and soil lift.

Acts as a mild emulsifier in cleansers and micellar waters for stable 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
Individuals with sensitive skin seeking gentle daily cleansers.
Anyone with known allergies to coconut-derived ingredients.
People preferring sulfate-free foaming washes for body or hair.
People experiencing irritation from any anionic surfactants.
Those using products for normal to dry skin types needing mild surfactants.
Those preferring completely non-foaming or soap-free cleansers.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with minimal health concerns.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores based on available data.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfolaurate

What makes it different from common sulfates?

Derived from lauric acid ester with targeted sulfonation for milder action and better foam stability.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its low irritation profile makes it a good choice for gentle cleansing routines.

Does it clog pores?

Rated 0 comedogenic, it is unlikely to contribute to pore blockage.