What Is Ammonium Capryleth Sulfate?
Ammonium Capryleth Sulfate is a synthetic cleansing agent made by attaching a sulfate group to a short chain of ethoxylated caprylic alcohol, then neutralizing it with ammonium. The result is a water-soluble salt that mixes easily into liquid formulas. The ingredient first gained traction in the late 1990s as brands looked for milder alternatives to traditional sulfates that could still give a rich lather. Manufacturing begins with plant-derived or petrochemical caprylic alcohol. This alcohol is reacted with ethylene oxide to add one to four ethoxy units, then treated with sulfur trioxide to introduce the sulfate group, and finally neutralized with ammonium hydroxide. Because the process is tightly controlled it produces a consistent ingredient that meets cosmetic-grade purity standards.
You will most often see Ammonium Capryleth Sulfate in shampoos, facial cleansers, body washes and bubble baths where it helps water lift away dirt and oil. It is also used in foaming face masks, exfoliating scrubs and even some micellar waters that aim for a gentle yet effective cleanse.
Ammonium Capryleth Sulfate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient helps a formula perform better in two key ways:
- Cleansing: Its surfactant structure lowers the surface tension of water so oils, makeup and everyday grime rinse away quickly leaving skin or hair feeling fresh not stripped
- Foaming: It creates a dense stable foam that spreads the cleanser evenly over skin or hair improving user experience and encouraging thorough rinse-off
Who Can Use Ammonium Capryleth Sulfate
Because Ammonium Capryleth Sulfate is milder than many traditional sulfates it is generally suitable for normal, combination and oily skin types as well as most hair types. Dry or highly sensitive skin may still find any sulfate based cleanser a bit too dehydrating if used daily so those users should pay attention to how their skin feels and balance with moisturizers or gentler cleansers if needed.
The ingredient is produced from plant derived or petrochemical sources and contains no animal by-products so it is compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
No specific data indicates a risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically in rinse-off products. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their skincare routine with a qualified healthcare professional to be completely safe.
Ammonium Capryleth Sulfate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitizing. It is also odorless and free of common fragrance allergens which can be helpful for people who react to added scent.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical ingredients vary. The points below outline potential but uncommon effects associated with Ammonium Capryleth Sulfate when used in cosmetic formulas that otherwise meet quality standards. Most users tolerate the ingredient well and never notice these issues.
- Mild dryness or tightness, especially on already dehydrated skin
- Temporary scalp or skin irritation if the formula sits for an extended period before rinsing
- Stinging on broken or freshly shaved skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific sensitivity to sulfated surfactants
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Ammonium Capryleth Sulfate is a small water-soluble surfactant that rinses fully off the skin so it has almost no chance to sit in pores and form blockages. It also does not leave an oily film behind. For these reasons formulators view it as very low risk for clogging pores.
People who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts generally tolerate this ingredient well, especially in rinse-off products.
As with any cleansing agent the overall formula matters. Heavy creams or leave-on products that pair it with occlusive oils could still feel pore-clogging even if this single ingredient is not.
Summary
Ammonium Capryleth Sulfate works mainly as a cleanser and foam booster. Its sulfate head loosens oils and debris while its short ethoxylated tail keeps it gentle. The result is a rich lather that lifts dirt, makeup and excess sebum so they wash away with water.
The ingredient enjoys steady use in shampoos, facial cleansers and body washes, though it is less famous than bigger names like SLS or SLES. Brands that want a milder sulfate often choose it for that middle-ground performance.
Safety data and decades of use show it is generally well tolerated in rinse-off products with only rare irritation reports. Still, skin can be unpredictable so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains it before full use.