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SODIUM STEARYL SULFATE.

Valuable CAS 1120-04-3 / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Sodium Stearyl Sulfate is an anionic surfactant widely used for its dual capacity to cleanse and emulsify. It effectively lowers surface tension, facilitating the removal of impurities and ensuring the stability of oil-in-water cosmetic formulations, while exhibiting a generally milder profile compared to some related alkyl sulfates.

Summary

cleansing surfactant emulsifying

Science

Mechanism of Action

As an anionic surfactant, Sodium Stearyl Sulfate reduces the surface tension between disparate ingredients, enabling it to act as an effective cleansing agent by solubilizing and removing oil and soil particles from skin. Furthermore, its emulsifying properties promote the stable dispersion of oil and water phases within cosmetic formulations. Its interaction with cell membranes and proteins can subtly alter the stratum corneum's surface tension, potentially enhancing the permeability of the skin to other molecules.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–29%
Optimal

1%

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Sodium Stearyl Sulfate serves clear functional roles as a surfactant, cleanser, and emulsifier, typically used at efficacious concentrations (e.g., up to 1% in leave-on products) that align with its established benefits in formulations.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used | safe with restrictions
Max tested
1%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel considers Sodium Stearyl Sulfate safe for use in cosmetics, with specific restriction for leave-on applications not exceeding 1%. While related undiluted alkyl sulfates may cause moderate eye irritation, a 20% aqueous solution of Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate (a closely related compound) was found to be non-irritating to skin or eyes. It is noted to be less irritating than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. The ingredient is listed by the EPA Safer Chemical program as a chemical of low concern.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Sodium Stearyl Sulfate is a valuable functional ingredient, providing effective cleansing and emulsification, with a well-established safety profile for use in leave-on products at concentrations up to 1%.

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