Trisodium Sulfosuccinate

Trisodium sulfosuccinate is an anionic, water-soluble surfactant in the sulfosuccinate class. Shampoos, body washes, and sprays use it to reduce surface tension for gentle cleansing, improve wetting, and support oil-in-water dispersion.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A gentle surfactant that helps cleansers foam and rinse away oils.
Category
Cleansing, Emulsifying
Type
Surfactant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Creates a mild foam that lifts away oil and debris while leaving a clean, light afterfeel, and improves glide and rinsability for a smoother cleanse.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, and micellar-style waters, and in sprayable rinses for easy, even application.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Generally low to moderate irritation potential compared with harsher surfactants, but it can irritate eyes or very sensitive skin, especially in concentrated formulas. Rinse-off formats reduce exposure; discontinue if persistent dryness or redness occurs.

Is Trisodium Sulfosuccinate a Good Ingredient?

It rates Good as a mild anionic surfactant that effectively reduces surface tension for gentle cleansing, typically less harsh than stronger sulfates. Some users may still experience dryness or sting at higher concentrations or with frequent use, which keeps it below Great.

Products with Trisodium Sulfosuccinate

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