Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
An anionic surfactant. It gives a dense lather and strong cleansing in gels and shampoos. Strong surfactants can feel drying, so sensitive skin watches it.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (INCI Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate) is an anionic surfactant. In gels and shampoos it gives dense foam and strong cleansing, since it removes oil and grime effectively. It is a functional cleansing ingredient, not a care active. It does its detergency job well, but it is a surfactant of moderate strength: such agents tend to dry the skin if the formula is not well balanced with softening co-ingredients. Systemic exposure from topical use is negligible, so it can be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding. On tolerance: irritation and allergy risk are rated low, but the detergency is moderate, so it can dry the skin with frequent use. Sensitive, dry or atopy-prone skin should watch how it responds and prefer formulas where it is well buffered.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate safe during pregnancy?
Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate for?
Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate and what does it do in cosmetics?
An anionic surfactant.
What's the INCI name for Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate?
The INCI name is Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate.
See Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Sodium Gluceptate, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Glycolate, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Activated Charcoal, CI 77742 (Manganese Violet), Isopropyl Alcohol, Pinene
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