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SODIUM ISETHIONATE.

Valuable CAS 1562-00-1 / ANTISTATIC, CLEANSING, HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING

A gentle, water-soluble surfactant, Sodium Isethionate efficiently cleanses the skin by enabling oil and dirt to emulsify and rinse away. It is valued for its ability to create a stable, creamy lather without compromising the skin's natural moisture barrier, making it suitable for delicate skin.

surfactant/cleansing skin conditioning hair conditioning antistatic

Science

Sodium Isethionate operates as a primary surfactant and cleansing agent, reducing water's surface tension to effectively blend with and remove oils and impurities. It promotes the formation of a rich, stable lather, contributing to a thorough cleanse while being gentle enough to preserve the skin's vital lipid barrier and moisture levels.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 10–25%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Studies indicate that Sodium Isethionate is typically utilized at concentrations between 10% and 25% in formulations, demonstrating efficacy without reported irritation or toxicity.
  2. 02 The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel affirmed its safety when formulated to be non-irritating, noting maximum use concentrations up to 6% in specific rinse-off products such as bath soaps and detergents.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 6 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient is stable in aqueous solutions, often exhibiting a mildly alkaline pH of approximately 10. Formulations maintain stability within a pH range of 6.0 to 10.0, although derivative compounds like Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate may show instability below pH 6.


Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
6%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel concluded that isethionate salts, including Sodium Isethionate, are safe for cosmetic application when properly formulated to be non-irritating. Extensive studies demonstrated no dermal or ocular irritation, nor skin sensitization, at concentrations up to 50% in rabbits. Furthermore, it showed no mutagenic potential in an Ames test. While the CIR reported a maximum concentration of 6% for specific products like bath soaps and detergents, higher concentrations (10-25%) are commonly utilized in various formulations without reported issues, underscoring the importance of optimal formulation for mildness. The FDA also recognizes 'Isethionate, sodium salt' as a Food Contact Substance.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

Sodium Isethionate is a highly effective yet gentle cleansing agent, well-suited for all skin types due to its low irritation potential and ability to preserve the skin's moisture barrier.


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References