Sodium Trideceth Sulfate

Sodium Trideceth Sulfate is an anionic sulfate surfactant derived from ethoxylated tridecyl alcohol. It's used in body wash and shampoo for strong cleansing, dense lather, and to emulsify oils, though it can be more stripping than milder alternatives.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A strong cleanser that can be drying on dry or sensitive skin.
Category
Cleansing, Emulsifying
Type
Surfactant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

It delivers a powerful cleanse that removes excess oil and stubborn residue for a very clean finish, though those with dry or sensitive skin may find it more drying than gentler options.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

It's typically used in clarifying shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers designed for occasional deep cleaning, and appears in bath gels and scalp scrubs where strong degreasing is desired.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

It can cause dryness, stinging, or eye irritation, particularly with frequent or prolonged contact. It's best suited to occasional or rinse-off use and balanced with milder co-surfactants and moisturizers. No widely recognized cosmetic regulatory restrictions apply.

Is Sodium Trideceth Sulfate a Good Ingredient?

It rates Fair as a strong, high-foaming cleanser that removes heavy oil and residue, but its higher stripping and irritation potential compared with milder surfactants limits its desirability for frequent use. Users with dry or sensitive skin face a greater risk of dryness and irritation.

Products with Sodium Trideceth Sulfate

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