What Is Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate/Myristate?
Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate/Myristate is a plant-derived surfactant made by reacting lauric and myristic fatty acids—most often sourced from coconut or palm oil—with sulfur trioxide, then neutralizing the resulting sulfonic acids with sodium. The outcome is a fine white powder or granule that dissolves easily in water and produces a rich, stable foam.
Surfactants based on lauric and myristic acids have been used since the mid-20th century, prized for their mildness compared with older soap-based cleansers. As consumer demand grew for sulfate-free and gentle formulas, chemists refined these molecules, leading to the introduction of Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate/Myristate as a milder alternative to traditional sulfates in the 1990s. Its balanced cleansing strength and skin-friendly profile quickly made it a staple in mild facial washes and body cleansers.
The ingredient is produced in large stainless-steel reactors where fatty acids are first purified, then sulfonated under controlled temperature and pressure. After neutralization and drying, the material is milled to achieve consistent particle size, ensuring predictable performance in finished products.
Today you’ll find Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate/Myristate in foaming facial cleansers, body washes, bubble baths, shampoo bars, exfoliating scrubs and occasionally in rinse-off masks where a rich lather is desirable. Its versatility and mildness allow formulators to create sulfate-free products that still feel satisfying and leave skin comfortably clean.
Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate/Myristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves multiple roles that improve both product performance and user experience
- Cleansing: Lowers surface tension so water can lift away dirt, excess oil and makeup without stripping the skin’s natural lipids, leaving it feeling fresh yet comfortable
- Foam Boosting: Enhances the volume and stability of lather, giving cleansers a creamy, luxurious feel that helps spread the product evenly and encourages thorough rinsing
Who Can Use Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate/Myristate
Because it is a mild, sulfate-free cleanser, Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate/Myristate is generally suitable for normal, oily, combination and even many sensitive skin types. People with very compromised or post-procedure skin should introduce it slowly since any surfactant can feel drying on a damaged barrier.
The ingredient is plant derived and does not rely on animal by-products during manufacture so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.
No data show any specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this ingredient is used in rinse-off products at typical levels. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before starting a new skincare routine just to be safe.
Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate/Myristate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known interactions with common topical actives like retinoids or vitamin C.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use can vary by individual. The points below cover potential reactions that are possible yet unlikely for most people when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin dryness or tightness, especially with very frequent washing
- Temporary stinging if applied to broken or freshly shaved skin
- Eye irritation if the cleanser gets into the eyes before rinsing
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as redness itching or small bumps
If irritation or any unexpected reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate/Myristate scores a 1 because its molecules are water soluble and designed to rinse away cleanly, leaving minimal residue that could block pores. It is gentler than many traditional sulfate surfactants yet still effective at removing excess oil which further lowers the risk of buildup. Those prone to acne or breakouts can generally use products containing this ingredient without concern.
Being a rinse-off surfactant rather than a leave-on emollient also keeps the comedogenic potential very low.
Summary
Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate/Myristate is a plant derived surfactant that lifts dirt, oil and makeup while boosting creamy foam so cleansers feel luxurious and rinse clean. Its sulfate-free structure gives it a milder touch compared with older cleansing agents, making it a popular choice in modern face washes body cleansers and shampoo bars, though it still sits behind bigger names like cocamidopropyl betaine in overall market share.
Safety data show it is well tolerated in rinse-off formulas with only occasional minor dryness or irritation for very sensitive users. As with any new skincare product it is smart to patch test first to be on the safe side.