Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate

Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate is a milder anionic surfactant made from fatty alcohols reacted to form a sulfoacetate structure. It provides dense, cushiony foam and gentler cleansing in bath bombs, shower gels, syndet bars, and sulfate-free shampoos.
Like this ingredient?

Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A gentler sulfate alternative that still makes a rich, creamy foam.
Category
Cleansing
Type
Surfactant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

It generates abundant, creamy lather while feeling gentler than classic sulfates for many users, offering effective cleansing with less dryness in typical rinse-off use.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

It's found in bath bombs, shower gels, creamy facial cleansers, and syndet shampoo bars for a plush foam experience, and frequently chosen for sulfate-free body washes and shampoos.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

It's generally well tolerated in rinse-off formats, though any surfactant may cause dryness or mild irritation in very sensitive individuals. Reduce frequency if tightness or redness occurs.

Is Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate a Good Ingredient?

It delivers strong foam with a milder skin feel than harsher sulfates, which earns it a Good rating for balanced cleansing and tolerance. It doesn't reach Great because the benefits are performance-based rather than backed by clinically proven skin improvements.