Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Other names: sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, Dodecyl sodium sulfoacetate, Dodecyl ester, S-sodium salt, SLSA
Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)
Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, which is also known by the names sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, Dodecyl sodium sulfoacetate, Dodecyl ester, S-sodium salt or SLSA for short, is an anionic surfactant. It has excellent foaming, moisturizing and cleaning abilities. Due to these properties, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate is widely used in the cosmetics industry, specifically in hair and skin care products such as shampoos, bath foams and soaps. This substance also has the ability to replace Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), which is usually a less gentle ingredient that some people may perceive as an irritant.
Unlike some other substances used in the cosmetics industry, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate is considered to be more or less gentle (especially compared to the aforementioned Sodium Lauryl Sulfate). It is biodegradable and does not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). SLSA is also popular because it is able to produce a rich foam even in the presence of oils and salts, a property that is highly sought after in cosmetics. Yet this substance can carry certain risks. Although it is generally considered less irritating, it can cause skin or eye irritation in some people. It is therefore advisable to consult a dermatologist before using cosmetic products containing Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate.