At a glance
- CAS number
- 9004-82-4
- INCI name
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Function
- surfactant, cleansing, foaming, emulsifier
- Typical use level
- 1%–25%
- Solubility
- water
- Stable pH
- 5–7
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
Sodium laureth sulfate sodium;2-dodecoxyethyl sulfate Sodium 2-(dodecyloxy)ethyl sulphate 2-(Dodecyloxy)ethyl sodium sulfate Sodium 2-(dodecyloxy)ethyl sulfate Sodium dodecylmonooxyethylene sulfate Ethanol, 2-(dodecyloxy)-, hydrogen sulfate, sodium salt Sodium lauryl ethoxysulfate Ethanol, 2-(dodecyloxy)-, sulfate, sodium salt Dodecyl sodium ethoxysulfate Sodium dodeceth-1 sulfate Sodium lauryl ethoxysulphate
Compatibility
Works well with:
Cocamidopropyl Betaine Cocamide DEA Cocamide MEA Sodium Chloride Glycerin Panthenol Polyquaternium-7 Polyquaternium-10 Citric Acid Sodium Benzoate
Use caution with:
Cationic Surfactants High Concentration Electrolytes Cationic Proteins L-Ascorbic Acid Zinc Pyrithione
Sodium Laureth Sulfate is an anionic surfactant and will form complexes or precipitates when combined with cationic surfactants (e.g., BTAC, cetyltrimethylammonium chloride), reducing the efficacy of both. High electrolyte concentrations can cause viscosity instability or phase separation. Highly acidic actives like L-Ascorbic Acid can destabilize the ethoxylated sulfate linkage over time.
Formulation notes
Contains ethylene oxide-derived ethoxylate groups; finished products should be tested for 1,4-dioxane levels per regulatory requirements (EU, US FDA guidance). EU Cosmetics Regulation limits nitrosamine-forming conditions; use in rinse-off products is most common. Potential skin irritant at high concentrations; typical shampoo use is 6–15%, body wash 5–20%. EO (degree of ethoxylation) of the commercial grade affects mildness and foam profile.
Related ingredients
- Lauryl GlucosideSurfactant
- Sodium Cocoyl GlutamateSurfactant
- Sodium Lauryl SulfateSurfactant
- Sodium Cocoyl IsethionateSurfactant
- Behenyl PEG/PPG-20/20 DimethiconeEmulsifier
- Cetearyl GlucosideEmulsifier