What Is Sodium Dilaureth-7 Citrate?
Sodium Dilaureth-7 Citrate is a plant derived surfactant made by reacting lauryl alcohol (a fatty alcohol often sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil) with about seven units of ethylene oxide, then esterifying the result with citric acid and neutralizing it with sodium. The outcome is a mild, water soluble powder or liquid that blends the oil loving part of lauryl alcohol with the water loving pull of citric acid salts.
The idea of turning fatty alcohols into gentle cleansers took off in the late 1970s as brands looked for alternatives to harsher sulfates. Chemists discovered that linking ethoxylated lauryl chains to naturally occurring citric acid gives a surfactant that foams well yet is kinder to skin. Over time, this material was refined so that an average of seven ethylene oxide units hit the sweet spot between cleansing power and mildness. Today it appears mainly in rinse off products such as facial cleansers, shampoos, body washes and bubble baths. It can also serve in light lotion cleansers, makeup removing milks and micellar waters where a soft feel is key.
Sodium Dilaureth-7 Citrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas, Sodium Dilaureth-7 Citrate fills more than one role that helps products work and feel better.
- Cleansing: The surfactant loosens dirt, oil and product buildup so they rinse away with water. It produces a creamy lather that leaves skin and hair feeling fresh without a tight or squeaky finish.
- Emulsifying: Its split personality—one end attracted to water, the other to oil—lets it hold oils, fragrances and active ingredients in a smooth, even mixture. This keeps lotions stable and prevents separation in cleansers and makeup removers.
Who Can Use Sodium Dilaureth-7 Citrate
Sodium Dilaureth-7 Citrate is generally well tolerated by most skin types including normal, combination, oily and sensitive skin because it is a mild surfactant designed to cleanse without stripping natural lipids. Very dry or severely compromised skin might still prefer richer, cream based cleansers since even gentle foaming agents can remove some surface oils.
The ingredient is plant derived and contains no animal by-products so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data show no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in rinse off products. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products to their routine.
Sodium Dilaureth-7 Citrate does not increase photosensitivity and has no known interactions with sunlight. It is also non volatile so it will not cause inhalation issues during normal use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sodium Dilaureth-7 Citrate differ from person to person. The following points outline potential effects that could occur although most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as intended.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching in those with very sensitive skin
- Dryness or tightness if used in high concentrations or with prolonged contact
- Eye stinging if the cleanser accidentally enters the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as a rash or swelling
If any irritation or adverse reaction occurs discontinue use and seek advice from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Sodium Dilaureth-7 Citrate is highly water soluble and rinses off cleanly so it leaves little to no residue that could clog pores. Its molecule is large, charged and designed to stay in the water phase of a formula rather than sit on skin, all of which keeps the likelihood of pore blockage very low. Because of this, it is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
As with any surfactant, the overall comedogenicity of a finished product also depends on the other ingredients present and how well the formula rinses away.
Summary
Sodium Dilaureth-7 Citrate acts mainly as a cleanser and emulsifier. Its oil friendly lauryl backbone grabs onto dirt and sebum while the citric acid salts and ethoxylated segments pull that grime into water so it can be washed away. The same dual nature lets it bind oil and water together, keeping lotions, washes and makeup removers smooth and uniform.
Although not as famous as sulfates or glucosides, this ingredient has a quiet following among formulators looking for a mild, plant derived surfactant that still provides a satisfying lather.
Current safety data show it to be low risk when used in rinse off products. As with any new skincare product it is smart to do a quick patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.