Sodium Oleth Sulfate
A sulfate surfactant. It cleanses and foams; 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 Oleth Sulfate is an anionic sulfate-type surfactant made from ethoxylated fatty alcohols with an oleic chain. In cleansers, body washes and shampoos it provides the washing action: it emulsifies oil and dirt and builds a creamy foam. This is a functional ingredient, not an active. Its job is to clean and add a foamy texture to the formula, nothing more. Do not expect anti-aging or standalone moisturizing effects from it. Applied topically to healthy skin it does not reach the bloodstream in meaningful amounts, so it can be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Irritation and allergy risk are low. Harshness is moderate, so very frequent washing or use on dry skin may leave it feeling slightly dry. Paired with mild surfactants and humectants, most skin types tolerate it comfortably, including well cared for sensitive skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sodium Oleth Sulfate safe during pregnancy?
Sodium Oleth Sulfate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sodium Oleth Sulfate for?
Sodium Oleth Sulfate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Sodium Oleth Sulfate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A sulfate surfactant.
What's the INCI name for Sodium Oleth Sulfate?
The INCI name is Sodium Oleth Sulfate.
See Sodium Oleth 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 Olivate, Sodium Palm Kernelate, Sodium Palmate, Sodium Palmitate, Arachidyl Glucoside, Decyl Glucoside, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate
Published: · updated: