Sodium Laureth-8 Sulfate
A sulfate surfactant. It cleanses and gives rich foam; frequent washing may dry the skin. Moderately tolerated.
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 Laureth-8 Sulfate is an anionic surfactant from the ethoxylated sulfate family. In gels, shampoos and cleansers it handles the washing step: it lifts sebum and grime and builds plenty of foam. The number 8 marks a high degree of ethoxylation, which makes it gentler than a classic lauryl sulfate. On efficacy, this is a functional ingredient rather than a skincare active. It cleanses and gives a foamy texture, but it does not treat wrinkles or pigmentation. Its job is technical. For topical use on healthy skin there is no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without concern. Irritation and allergy potential are low. Harshness is moderate: with frequent washing or on very dry skin it can leave a tight feel. In well balanced formulas paired with mild co-surfactants, most people tolerate it well.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sodium Laureth-8 Sulfate safe during pregnancy?
Sodium Laureth-8 Sulfate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sodium Laureth-8 Sulfate for?
Sodium Laureth-8 Sulfate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Sodium Laureth-8 Sulfate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A sulfate surfactant.
What's the INCI name for Sodium Laureth-8 Sulfate?
The INCI name is Sodium Laureth-8 Sulfate.
See Sodium Laureth-8 Sulfate 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 Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Alumina, Citrus Paradisi Fruit Extract, Laureth-2, Poloxamer 235
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