What Is Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate?
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate is a mild anionic surfactant made by attaching ethoxylated lauryl alcohol to a sulfosuccinic acid backbone then neutralizing the acid groups with sodium. The result is a salt that dissolves easily in water, lowers surface tension and creates a gentle lather. It is often labeled as a “sulfate-free” cleanser because its chemistry differs from harsher sulfates, even though it still belongs to the broader family of surfactants.
The raw materials behind the ingredient usually start with coconut or palm kernel oil for the fatty alcohol portion, while petrochemical or plant-derived ethylene oxide provides the “laureth” chain. Sulfosuccinic acid is synthesized, reacted with the ethoxylated alcohol, then the mix is neutralized with sodium carbonate or hydroxide. The finished ingredient is filtered, concentrated and supplied as a clear to slightly hazy liquid.
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate began appearing in personal care formulas in the late 1970s as formulators searched for alternatives to sodium lauryl sulfate that would be less irritating yet still give good foam. Its popularity grew with the rise of gentle and “sulfate-free” shampoos, body washes and baby products. Today it is common in facial cleansers, micellar waters, bubble baths, hand soaps, shampoo bars, exfoliating scrubs and even some wipe solutions and makeup removers.
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In a formula this ingredient pulls its weight in several ways
- Cleansing: Its surfactant nature lifts away oil, dirt and makeup so the skin or hair feels fresh without a stripped sensation
- Foaming: Generates a creamy, stable lather that consumers associate with effective cleaning which helps spread the product more easily
- Foam boosting: Teams up with other surfactants to increase overall volume and density of foam improving sensory appeal
- Hydrotrope: Helps keep otherwise hard-to-dissolve ingredients in solution allowing clear, low-viscosity products and preventing layer separation
Who Can Use Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
This surfactant is gentle enough for most skin types including oily, combination, normal, dry and even many sensitive skins because it cleans without stripping the natural lipid barrier. People with very reactive or broken skin may still feel a slight sting so they might prefer to limit contact time or choose a fragrance-free formula.
The raw materials are plant or petroleum derived and contain no animal by-products, so Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate itself is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the full ingredient list to be sure the finished product is certified cruelty free if that is important to you.
Current safety assessments show no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used as directed in rinse-off or leave-on products, yet this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should run all skincare choices past a qualified healthcare provider to be on the safe side.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with UV exposure. It also works well across a wide pH range giving formulators flexibility which further supports its broad suitability.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses can vary. The effects listed below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly in cosmetic products.
- Transient eye stinging or watering if the cleanser gets into the eyes
- Mild skin dryness or tightness after frequent use in high concentrations
- Temporary redness or itching on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis characterized by rash or bumps
If you notice any of these effects stop using the product and seek advice from a doctor or dermatologist as needed.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 – 1. Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate is highly water-soluble and does not leave an oily or occlusive film on skin, so it has little tendency to clog pores. Most cosmetic chemists and dermatology references consider it non-comedogenic or at worst very low on the scale.
This makes it generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Because its irritation potential is low compared with harsher sulfates, users are less likely to experience the inflammation that can sometimes worsen acne, another reason it scores at the bottom of the comedogenic scale.
Summary
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate acts mainly as a cleanser, foaming agent, foam booster and hydrotrope. Its surfactant structure lowers water’s surface tension so oils, dirt and makeup lift away easily while its ethoxylated chain creates a creamy lather that spreads product across skin or hair. As a hydrotrope it keeps ingredients dissolved, allowing clear shampoos and body washes to stay stable on the shelf.
The ingredient gained traction in the late 1970s and remains popular in “sulfate-free” shampoos, facial cleansers, baby washes and hand soaps because it offers a gentler feel than traditional sulfates while still delivering satisfying foam.
Safety reviews show it to be low in irritation and essentially non-comedogenic when used at normal cosmetic levels. While most people tolerate it well, it is always wise to patch test a new product to make sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.