What Is Disodium Laureth-6 Sulfosuccinate?
Disodium Laureth-6 Sulfosuccinate is a mild surfactant created from fatty alcohols that usually come from renewable plant sources like coconut or palm oil. Chemically, it is an ethoxylated lauryl alcohol joined with a sulfosuccinate group, giving it the ability to mix oil and water with ease. It first gained attention in the late 20th century as brands looked for gentle alternatives to traditional sulfates that could still give a rich lather. Production starts with lauryl alcohol, which is reacted with ethylene oxide to add six ethoxy units, then treated with maleic anhydride and finally neutralized with sodium carbonate to form the disodium salt.
Because it strikes a balance between effective cleansing and skin friendliness, Disodium Laureth-6 Sulfosuccinate shows up in a wide range of personal care items. You will often find it in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, baby baths, bubble baths, liquid hand soaps and even some makeup removers. Some formulators also use it in exfoliating scrubs and sheet mask essences where a gentle yet thorough cleanse is needed.
Disodium Laureth-6 Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Below are the main roles this ingredient plays in cosmetic formulas and why they matter
- Cleansing: Lifts away dirt, oil and product buildup without stripping the skin or hair of natural moisture, making daily wash products feel gentle yet effective
- Foam Boosting: Enhances lather volume and stability so shampoos and body washes feel luxurious and rinse out easily
- Hydrotrope: Helps keep other ingredients evenly dispersed in water based formulas, improving overall product clarity and preventing separation
Who Can Use Disodium Laureth-6 Sulfosuccinate
This gentle surfactant is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, sensitive, normal and combination skin because it cleans without harsh stripping. Those with very oily skin may find they prefer formulas that pair it with a stronger cleanser for a deeper degrease but even then it rarely causes tightness or irritation.
The ingredient is typically sourced from plant based fatty alcohols so products containing it are usually appropriate for vegetarians and vegans. Brands that wish to carry a vegan label must also ensure any accompanying ingredients and processing aids are free of animal derivatives.
No specific contraindications have been flagged for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review their skincare routine with a qualified healthcare professional to be extra safe.
Disodium Laureth-6 Sulfosuccinate does not increase photosensitivity so you do not need to take special sun precautions beyond standard daily SPF use.
Because it is considered non comedogenic and has a large molecular size it is unlikely to clog pores or build up on the scalp. It is also compatible with most common cosmetic actives and preservatives so formulators can include it in a wide range of routines without concern for adverse ingredient interactions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Disodium Laureth-6 Sulfosuccinate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic concentrations in a well formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching in very sensitive individuals
- Eye stinging if the product accidentally gets into the eyes during use
- Dryness when used at high concentrations or in very frequent washes especially on already compromised skin barriers
- Allergic contact dermatitis in those who have a specific allergy to sulfosuccinate surfactants
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 out of 5
Disodium Laureth-6 Sulfosuccinate is highly water soluble and has a relatively large molecular structure, which means it rinses away cleanly instead of sitting in pores and trapping oil. Studies and anecdotal reports show little to no tendency for it to form comedones, so it earns the lowest possible score.
Because of this rating it is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Formulators also favor it for facial cleansers aimed at oily or congested skin because it combines non-comedogenicity with a pleasant lather, making it a reliable alternative to harsher sulfates.
Summary
Disodium Laureth-6 Sulfosuccinate is a gentle surfactant that cleanses by lowering the surface tension of water so oils, dirt and product residue lift away with minimal effort. It boosts foam, giving shampoos and body washes a rich lather, and it acts as a hydrotrope, keeping other ingredients evenly dispersed for clear stable formulas.
You will spot it in many sulfate free shampoos, baby washes and sensitive skin cleansers. While not as famous as sodium lauryl sulfate it has built a solid reputation among formulators who want mildness without sacrificing foam quality.
Overall safety is high with a low risk of irritation or pore clogging when used at normal cosmetic levels. As with any new skincare product it is wise to perform a quick patch test before full use to confirm personal compatibility.