Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate
A sulfonated shale oil product akin to ichthammol. It soothes skin and helps hold back microbes. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A soothing active. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate is a sulphonated shale oil product, related to ichthyol. Its INCI is Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate. In a formula it helps calm the skin and curb the growth of some microbes, which is why it appears in products for acne-prone skin. It has a long tradition of use on oily, inflamed skin. The evidence base is modest and more clinical than cosmetic, so view it as a supporting soothing and mildly antimicrobial component, not as acne treatment in itself. Topically it poses no meaningful systemic risk, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is good and irritation and allergy risk are low. It has its own colour and smell, which some products soften. It is not comedogenic, so it fits oily skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate safe during pregnancy?
Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate for?
Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A sulfonated shale oil product akin to ichthammol.
What's the INCI name for Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate?
The INCI name is Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate. It may also appear as: Ichthammol, Ictasol.
See Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
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