What Is Thiamine Bis-Laurylsulfate?
Thiamine bis-laurylsulfate is a vitamin-derived compound made by attaching two lauryl sulfate groups to thiamine, also known as vitamin B1. The lauryl sulfate tails give the molecule a mild surfactant character while the thiamine core helps it stay stable in water-based formulas. The ingredient is produced through a controlled esterification process that binds purified thiamine to activated lauryl sulfate, followed by careful neutralization and filtration steps to remove excess salts and by-products. Cosmetic chemists first explored this material in the late 1980s when they were searching for gentler alternatives to harsher preservatives then on the market. Its ability to slow down the growth of bacteria and yeast without a strong smell or color quickly made it attractive for personal care labs. Today you can spot it on the label of everyday items such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, sheet masks, leave-on lotions, lightweight moisturizers and some anti-aging serums where it helps keep the product fresh over its shelf life.
Thiamine Bis-Laurylsulfate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators include thiamine bis-laurylsulfate mainly for its role in keeping a product safe and usable from the first pump to the last.
- Preservative – helps prevent the growth of microbes that can spoil the formula or irritate the skin, allowing brands to offer longer shelf lives and consumers to store products at room temperature without worry
Who Can Use Thiamine Bis-Laurylsulfate
Because it is a mild preservative with a low risk of clogging pores, thiamine bis-laurylsulfate is generally suitable for all skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry skin. Sensitive skin users typically tolerate it well since it is used at very small concentrations, although extremely reactive skin may prefer formulas with fewer synthetic additives and should watch for any signs of irritation.
The ingredient is made from vitamin B1 plus plant-derived lauryl alcohol, then neutralized with mineral salts, so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. No animal-derived raw materials or by-products are used during its production.
Current safety data do not flag thiamine bis-laurylsulfate as a risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when applied topically in cosmetic amounts. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss any skincare products they plan to use with a healthcare professional.
Thiamine bis-laurylsulfate does not increase photosensitivity and will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Because it is water soluble it also rinses cleanly from hair and skin, which can be helpful for people prone to buildup or dullness.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical thiamine bis-laurylsulfate can vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that could occur, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly and at standard cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to sulfates or thiamine derivatives
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Dryness or slight tightness in very dehydrated skin when used in high surfactant formulas
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a medical professional or pharmacist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Thiamine bis-laurylsulfate is fully water soluble, used at very low percentages and does not form an oily film that could block pores. Its molecule is small enough to rinse away easily and lacks the heavy waxes or fatty acids that usually raise comedogenicity scores. For these reasons it sits at the bottom of the scale.
This makes the ingredient suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
No published data suggest it worsens fungal acne or interacts with common acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which further supports its low pore-clogging risk.
Summary
Thiamine bis-laurylsulfate is primarily a preservative that keeps skincare and haircare products free from bacteria and yeast. It works by pairing a vitamin B1 core with two lauryl sulfate arms that disrupt microbial cell walls while remaining gentle enough for daily use. Although effective, it is still a niche ingredient that shows up in select shampoos, cleansers and lightweight lotions rather than on every shelf.
Current research and practical use indicate it is generally safe for all skin types with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new product, doing a quick patch test is a smart way to check personal tolerance before full application.