What Is Disodium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate?
Disodium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate is a mild surfactant made from oleic acid, a fatty acid found in olive oil and other natural fats, that has been chemically linked with polyethylene glycol and sulfosuccinic acid. The result is a water-soluble, salt-based ingredient that helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. It first appeared in personal care formulas in the 1970s when brands looked for gentler alternatives to traditional sulfates. Manufacturers create it by reacting oleic acid with aminoethoxy ethanol, then adding polyethylene glycol units and finally neutralizing the mix with sodium to form a stable powder or liquid concentrate. You will most often spot it in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, baby washes, bubble baths, micellar waters and some makeup removers where a soft, cushiony lather is needed without stripping the skin or hair.
Disodium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient earns its place in formulas for several helpful reasons
- Cleansing: Lowers the surface tension of water so oils, sweat and daily grime lift off the skin or hair easily, leaving a fresh feel
- Foam boosting: Enhances and stabilizes bubbles, giving products a rich, creamy lather that consumers enjoy
- Hydrotrope: Helps keep other surfactants and oil-based ingredients evenly dispersed in water-based formulas, improving clarity and shelf life
Who Can Use Disodium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate
This gentle cleanser suits most skin types including normal, oily, combination and sensitive because it removes dirt without stripping too much natural oil. Very dry or eczema-prone skin might still feel a bit tight after frequent use, so pairing the cleanser with a good moisturizer is wise.
The compound is synthesized from plant-derived oleic acid and petrochemical PEG units rather than animal sources, so it is generally considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. Those following a strict lifestyle should still confirm that the finished product has not used animal-based processing aids.
Current safety assessments show no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on products at typical levels. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all personal care products with a qualified healthcare professional.
Disodium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate does not increase photosensitivity and can be used alongside daily sun exposure without extra precautions beyond wearing sunscreen as usual.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Disodium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects yet most consumers will use products containing this ingredient with no problems when the formula has been made correctly.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness itching or stinging especially on compromised or very sensitive skin
- Eye irritation and watering if the lather accidentally gets into the eyes
- Dryness or tightness after frequent or prolonged contact due to its oil-removing action
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis marked by persistent rash or swelling
If any discomfort or unexpected reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and seek guidance from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Disodium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate is fully water soluble and designed to lift oils away rather than sit on the skin so it has virtually no tendency to clog pores. It rinses off cleanly and does not leave a residue that could trap dead skin cells or bacteria. This makes it a safe pick for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind that the final product’s overall pore-clogging potential depends on the entire formula. Heavy creams or occlusive oils paired with this surfactant could still trigger congestion even though the surfactant itself is non-comedogenic.
Summary
Disodium Oleamido Peg-2 Sulfosuccinate is valued for three main jobs: it cleanses by lowering water’s surface tension so dirt and oil wash away easily, it boosts and stabilizes foam giving washes a soft creamy lather, and it acts as a hydrotrope that keeps other ingredients evenly mixed for a clear stable product. These traits have earned it steady use in gentle shampoos body washes facial cleansers baby baths and micellar waters, although it is less of a household name than classic sulfates like SLS.
Safety profiles show it is mild with a low risk of irritation when used at typical cosmetic levels. Most people can enjoy formulas containing this ingredient without worry, yet it is always smart to do a small patch test with any new product to make sure your skin stays happy.