Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate
Mild surfactant and emulsifier based on lactic and lauric acids. Well tolerated by the skin and helps stabilize formulas without harsh emulsifiers.
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
- Oily, Dry, Sensitive, Combination, Normal
About this ingredient
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate (SLL) is a mild anionic surfactant and emulsifier produced by condensation of lactic acid and coconut- or palm-derived lauric acid, followed by sodium salt neutralization. Biodegradable, vegan, permitted in organic cosmetics (Ecocert, COSMOS). Used in cleansers, face washes, shampoos, and micellar waters at 1–10% and as a co-emulsifier in creams, lotions, and body oils at 0.5–3%. Compared with classical surfactants (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate), SLL does not disrupt the hydrolipid barrier: formulas have pH 4.5–5.5, lower surface tension, and minimal stratum corneum penetration. It does not cause dryness, tightness, or cumulative irritation. Suitable for sensitive, atopic, reactive skin, children, seborrheic dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, and rosacea. Safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Non-comedogenic, with no toxic metabolites. According to CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review, 2017), SLL is safe at current use levels, non-cytotoxic, and non-sensitizing. Compatible with all active ingredients. An additional advantage is mild antibacterial activity against Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus, which is useful in formulations for acne-prone skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate safe during pregnancy?
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate for?
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate suits: oily, dry, sensitive, combination, normal.
What is Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Mild surfactant and emulsifier based on lactic and lauric acids.
What's the INCI name for Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate?
The INCI name is Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate.
See Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
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