Sodium Isethionate
Component of syndets (synthetic detergent bars). On its own foams weakly; acts as a mild co-surfactant.
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, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Sodium Isethionate is the sodium salt of isethionic acid. On its own it foams weakly and barely functions solo. It serves as a co-surfactant in syndets and shampoos to boost mildness of the main surfactant system and lower irritation. Mechanism. The salt sequesters calcium and magnesium ions in hard water, preventing precipitation of other surfactants, and boosts micellar activity. Effect on skin proteins is weak, which lowers overall irritation of the cleanser. Where applied. Syndets, mild shampoos, face and body cleansing bars, intimate-hygiene gels. On the label it often sits next to sodium cocoyl isethionate (SCI) or sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate. Safety. CIR confirmed safety in rinse-off formats. Non-sensitizing, non-comedogenic, no systemic absorption. Atopic and very dry skin tolerate it well. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Rinse-off format leaves no residue on skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sodium Isethionate safe during pregnancy?
Sodium Isethionate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sodium Isethionate for?
Sodium Isethionate suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Sodium Isethionate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Component of syndets (synthetic detergent bars).
What's the INCI name for Sodium Isethionate?
The INCI name is Sodium Isethionate.
See Sodium Isethionate 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 Laurate, Sodium Laureth-8 Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sweet Almond Seed Meal, Citrus Grandis Fruit Extract, Lauramide DEA, Poloxamer 184
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