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SODIUM ISOSTEAROYL LACTYLATE.

Valuable CAS 66988-04-3 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

A versatile ingredient, Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate functions as a mild anionic surfactant and emulsifier, effectively stabilizing oil and water components in formulations. It simultaneously delivers significant moisturizing, emollient, and conditioning benefits to both skin and hair, enhancing overall skin hydration and suppleness.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Moisturizing Emollient Conditioning Humectant Cleansing

Science

Mechanism of Action

Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate primarily acts as a mild anionic surfactant and emulsifier, facilitating the stabilization of oil and water phases within cosmetic formulations. It exhibits a strong affinity for the skin and hair, forming a lubricating and film-forming layer that contributes to its moisturizing, emollient, and conditioning properties. The lactate structure, an inherent biological component of the skin, is theorized to support skin nutrition, aid in preventing signs of aging, and promote a delicate, smooth, and flexible skin texture. It also functions as a humectant, establishing a gentle moisturizing barrier to enhance skin hydration, and may exhibit a synergistic effect with UV absorbers, potentially assisting in the repair and prevention of sun-induced damage. Additionally, it serves as an effective cleansing agent.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.1–10%
Optimal

Optimal use for leave-on products such as creams and lotions is typically within the 1-5% range.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 5 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient demonstrates stability within a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0 and is generally heat tolerant, although temperatures exceeding 80°C should be avoided. It is typically incorporated into the oil phase of formulations for optimal integration.

Synergies

  • UV absorbers (to enhance repair and prevention of sun damage)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The CIR Expert Panel has concluded that Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate, alongside other alkyl lactyl lactate salts, is safe for use in cosmetics under current practices and concentrations, provided the final formulations are designed to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing. While typical use levels range from 1% to 10%, a 15% concentration has been associated with a primary irritation index of 1.13 in rabbit studies. Additionally, human patch tests involving the related Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate at 2% and 5% concentrations elicited 'doubtful' irritation responses.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Medium
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, providing essential emulsifying and cleansing properties alongside significant moisturizing and conditioning benefits suitable for all skin types, with its safety profile dependent on careful formulation within established concentration limits.

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