What Is Cetyl/Lauryl/Myristyl Hydroxysultaine?
Cetyl/Lauryl/Myristyl Hydroxysultaine is a mild surfactant and hair conditioning agent belonging to the betaine family. It combines fatty chains of varying lengths—cetyl (C16), lauryl (C12) and myristyl (C14)—with a hydroxysultaine group, creating a molecule that carries both positive and negative charges. These fatty chains are usually sourced from renewable plant oils such as coconut or sustainable palm, making the ingredient both effective and biodegradable.
Betaine surfactants gained popularity in the 1970s when cosmetic chemists searched for cleansers that could foam well yet stay gentle on skin and hair. Hydroxysultaine derivatives like this one followed soon after because they offered an even milder profile and better tolerance in hard water. Production starts with fatty alcohols that are converted to dimethylamines, then reacted with a sulfonated epoxide to attach the hydroxypropyl sulfonate group, yielding a zwitterionic molecule that performs well across a broad pH range.
You will most often find Cetyl/Lauryl/Myristyl Hydroxysultaine in rinse-off products that need a balance of cleansing and conditioning. Typical applications include shampoos, conditioners, co-wash formulas, sulfate-free body washes, micellar waters, baby cleansers, hair masks, leave-in treatments, anti-frizz serums and color-protecting systems.
Cetyl/Lauryl/Myristyl Hydroxysultaine’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is prized for its ability to condition hair while contributing to a gentle cleansing base.
As a hair conditioning agent it deposits a light, invisible film on the hair shaft that smooths the cuticle, reduces static, improves detangling and leaves hair feeling softer with enhanced shine and manageability. Because the molecule is amphoteric it also helps stabilize foam and lessen irritation from harsher surfactants, giving formulators an easy way to create mild yet effective cleansing products.
Who Can Use Cetyl/Lauryl/Myristyl Hydroxysultaine
Cetyl/Lauryl/Myristyl Hydroxysultaine is considered suitable for all skin and hair types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive. Its mild nature and low irritation potential make it an option even for those who normally react to harsher cleansers. No specific skin or scalp type is known to be incompatible with this ingredient.
The fatty chains used to create this molecule are typically sourced from coconut or certified sustainable palm oil rather than animal by-products, so formulas containing it are generally acceptable for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the full ingredient list to confirm the entire product aligns with your lifestyle choices.
Current safety assessments show no evidence that Cetyl/Lauryl/Myristyl Hydroxysultaine poses risks during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should run any skincare or haircare products past a healthcare professional before use.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no special need for extra sun protection beyond normal daily habits. It is also color safe and compatible with chemically treated or keratin-smoothed hair.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Cetyl/Lauryl/Myristyl Hydroxysultaine can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated in a product.
- Mild scalp or skin irritation in very sensitive individuals
- Temporary eye stinging if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in the rare case of a true allergy to betaine surfactants
- Build-up or weighed-down feel on extremely fine hair if used in high concentrations without thorough rinsing
If you notice redness, itching, burning or any persistent discomfort discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Cetyl/Lauryl/Myristyl Hydroxysultaine is a water-soluble surfactant that rinses away easily and does not leave an oily or occlusive film on skin. Its molecular structure favors quick dispersal in water, so it is unlikely to clog pores or trap sebum. For these reasons it earns the lowest possible comedogenic rating.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Because it is normally used in rinse-off products, contact time with skin is short which further reduces any pore-clogging risk.
Summary
Cetyl/Lauryl/Myristyl Hydroxysultaine serves mainly as a mild surfactant and hair conditioning agent. The amphoteric betaine structure lets it cleanse without stripping while the fatty chains lay down a light conditioning layer that smooths cuticles, reduces static and boosts shine.
It is steadily gaining popularity in sulfate-free shampoos, co-washes and gentle body cleansers thanks to its balance of foam, mildness and biodegradability.
Current safety data show a very low irritation and allergy profile. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so perform a quick patch test when trying a new product that contains this ingredient.