Snapshot
- Overview
- A strong foaming cleanser suited for oily or high-buildup skin.
- Category
- Cleansing
- Type
- Surfactant
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.
Like this ingredient?
Our take
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.
What it does
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.
Where you'll find it
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.
Before you use it
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.
Products with Sodium Lauryl Phosphate
