What Is Sodium Laureth-7 Tartrate?
Sodium Laureth-7 Tartrate is a synthetic surfactant produced by reacting ethoxylated lauryl alcohol with tartaric acid then neutralizing the mixture with sodium hydroxide. The result is a water-soluble powder or viscous liquid made of long ethylene oxide chains attached to a 12-carbon fatty alcohol backbone and a tartarate group that improves water compatibility. This ingredient first appeared in shampoos and bubble baths in the late 1980s as formulators searched for gentler cleansers that still generated plentiful foam. Today it is manufactured in large batches through controlled ethoxylation followed by esterification, a process that allows predictable purity and performance.
Because of its mildness and strong foaming ability Sodium Laureth-7 Tartrate is common in facial cleansers, body washes, micellar waters, foaming masks, exfoliating scrubs, hand soaps and even some makeup removers where it helps lift dirt, oil and makeup without leaving skin tight or dry.
Sodium Laureth-7 Tartrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multifunctional surfactant adds several practical benefits to personal care formulas.
- Cleansing: Lowers surface tension so water can mix with oil, helping rinse away sebum, pollutants and product residue for a fresh clean feel
- Foaming: Creates rich stable lather that enhances the sensory experience and aids in even product distribution across skin or hair
Who Can Use Sodium Laureth-7 Tartrate
Sodium Laureth-7 Tartrate is generally well-tolerated by normal, oily, dry and combination skin because it is milder than many traditional sulfated cleansers. People with very sensitive or compromised skin may still feel occasional tightness if the formula is left on too long or used too frequently, so opting for products buffered with soothing ingredients is wise. The compound is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived components making it suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. Current safety assessments show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on concentrations typically found in cosmetics, but this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review their routine with a healthcare professional. Sodium Laureth-7 Tartrate does not increase photosensitivity and can be used morning or night without needing special sun precautions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sodium Laureth-7 Tartrate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential issues yet most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.
- Mild skin dryness or tightness after rinsing
- Transient stinging or redness on very sensitive skin
- Eye irritation if the product is accidentally rubbed into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of individual sensitivity
- Increased penetration of other active ingredients which could heighten their irritation potential
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Sodium Laureth-7 Tartrate is a highly water-soluble surfactant with a slim molecular size that quickly rinses away without forming an occlusive film on skin. Its hydrophilic structure limits the chance of it lingering inside pores, which is why it earns a low score of 1. People who are acne-prone generally tolerate it well since it helps remove excess oil rather than trapping it. Extremely sensitive or compromised skin could still react if the overall formula is harsh, but the ingredient itself carries little clogging risk.
Summary
Sodium Laureth-7 Tartrate is valued for cleansing and foaming. It lowers surface tension so water can lift away oils and debris, and its ethoxylated chain whips air into a creamy lather that spreads product evenly and boosts rinse-off. Although not as famous as sulfates or newer sulfate-free blends, it shows up in a steady stream of face washes, body washes and micellar waters because it balances mildness with performance.
Current safety data rate it as low-irritation and non-sensitizing at the levels used in cosmetics, so most people can use it confidently. As with any new product, give your skin a chance to adjust by patch testing first just to be safe.