Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate

Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate is an anionic emulsifier made from stearic and lactic acids for use in cosmetic products. It stabilizes oil-in-water mixtures, improves texture and spread, and provides mild skin conditioning during application.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An emulsifier that gives creams a silky feel and helps them glide.
Category
Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

It gives creams a silky, cushioned feel and helps them glide on evenly, and can leave skin feeling softer without a heavy residue.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

It's common in moisturizers, sunscreens, and conditioners to keep textures uniform and creamy in lotions, serums, and hair masks.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

It's generally regarded as low-irritation and suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. No common regulatory restrictions are noted for typical cosmetic use.

Is Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate a Good Ingredient?

It earns a Great rating as a well-established, stable emulsifier with extensive formulation use, reliable texture and stability performance, and a low irritation profile, while also imparting mild conditioning.