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SODIUM METHYL ISETHIONATE.

Valuable CAS 869737-84-8 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Sodium Methyl Isethionate is a gentle, water-soluble surfactant widely valued for its effective cleansing and foaming capabilities. It efficiently lifts dirt and oil from the skin while helping to maintain the skin's natural moisture balance, making it ideal for mild formulations.

Cleansing Surfactant Emulsifying

Science

This ingredient functions primarily as a surfactant by reducing the surface tension of the skin, which enables it to effectively emulsify and remove impurities like dirt and excess oil. This action allows for thorough cleansing without stripping the skin. Furthermore, Sodium Methyl Isethionate can act as an emulsifying agent, promoting the stable integration of oil and water components within product formulations.


Research

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 While specific clinical efficacy data for Sodium Methyl Isethionate are not exhaustively detailed, broader assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel confirm the safety of isethionate salts, including related compounds like Sodium Isethionate and Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, provided formulations are non-irritating. A derivative, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, is frequently incorporated into products at concentrations ranging from 3% to 30%, with safety evaluations extending up to 10.1% in rinse-off applications.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4.5 – 8.5
0 7 14

Stability

A related derivative, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, exhibits strong pH stability, remaining effective within a range of 4.5 to 8.5. Its distinct secondary ester structure provides superior hydrolytic stability compared to many conventional esters, simplifying its integration into formulations. When in chunk form, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate maintains stability in aqueous solutions at ambient temperatures within a pH range of 6 to 8.

Conflicts

  • The incorporation of certain chelating agents into formulations may lead to cloudiness.

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
53%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that isethionate salts, including Sodium Methyl Isethionate, are safe for use as cosmetic ingredients under current industry practices and concentrations, provided the final formulation is non-irritating. The highest reported maximum use concentration for a related isethionate salt, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, in rinse-off products is 53%.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

Sodium Methyl Isethionate is a valuable surfactant, offering gentle yet effective cleansing and emulsification properties that are well-suited for a wide range of skin types, particularly in non-irritating cosmetic formulations.


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