Sodium Lauryl Phosphate

Sodium Lauryl Phosphate is an anionic surfactant belonging to the phosphate ester class. It's used in shampoos and cleansers for detergency, wetting action, and foam promotion, particularly in high-foaming formulations.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A strong foaming cleanser suited for oily or high-buildup skin.
Category
Cleansing
Type
Surfactant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

It provides strong cleansing for heavy buildup and oil, though it may be too strong for easily irritated skin, and rinses away quickly to leave a very clean feel.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

It's used in clarifying hair washes, deep-clean face washes, and bubble bath products, and appears in heavy-duty body cleansers formulated for oily or sweaty conditions.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

It carries higher irritation potential than milder surfactants and can cause dryness, stinging, and barrier disruption if used frequently or at high concentrations. Avoid eye contact and consider patch testing for sensitive users. No commonly cited special regulatory limits apply to standard cosmetic use.

Is Sodium Lauryl Phosphate a Good Ingredient?

It rates Fair, since it delivers strong detergency and foam but is more likely to strip lipids and provoke irritation or dryness, particularly on sensitive or facial skin. It's best reserved for strong cleansing needs or occasional use rather than everyday facial care.

Products with Sodium Lauryl Phosphate

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