Skincare Ingredients

Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate

Sodium cetearyl sulfate is an anionic surfactant/emulsifier used in cleansers and some creams (often ~0.5–5%), and sulfate surfactants are well documented to disrupt the stratum corneum lipids and increase transepidermal water loss. Human patch/usage testing and clinical experience show higher rates of stinging, dryness, and irritant contact dermatitis in atopic/eczema-prone patients compared with non-ionic or amphoteric alternatives, especially with leave-on exposure or frequent use. Given its barrier-disruptive mechanism and predictable flare risk in compromised skin, it warrants a significant irritancy score. Safety Notes: In commercial products, sodium cetearyl sulfate is most often used as a primary or co-emulsifier/surfactant, with low-end use (~0.2–1%) in leave-on creams/lotions where it mainly supports emulsification and texture. Higher levels are seen in rinse-off cleansing creams, shampoo/body wash formats, and some solid cleanser bars where total anionic surfactant load is high, with consumer-available formulas reaching ~8–12% when SCS is a major surfactant. There is no specific EU/FDA concentration cap for this ingredient in cosmetics; practical limits are driven by irritation potential, foam/viscosity targets, and stability.

Sodium Chloride

MVP Approved - Sodium chloride, commonly known as salt, is used in skincare primarily as a thickener and viscosity regulator, and it can also aid in mild exfoliation. It is generally safe for most skin types, though higher concentrations may lead to slight dryness or irritation.

Sodium Citrate

Sodium citrate is primarily a pH buffer/chelating salt used at low concentrations (typically ~0.1–1%) to stabilize formulations and is generally well-tolerated in patch testing and clinical use. However, as a pH-adjusting agent it can cause mild stinging on compromised or very inflamed skin (e.g., eczema flares), especially if the overall formula’s pH shifts toward more acidic/alkaline ranges. Given the low but non-zero irritation potential in highly reactive populations, it fits best as very gentle rather than completely inert. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, sodium citrate is most commonly used as a pH adjuster/buffer and chelating adjunct, where it is frequently present at trace-to-low levels (~0.01–0.3%) in both leave-on (serums, creams) and rinse-off (cleansers) products. Higher levels are seen when it functions as a primary buffering component in citrate buffer systems for acidic formulas (e.g., AHAs, vitamin C derivatives) and in some cleansing/bar-type systems, with consumer-available products reaching ~1–5% depending on pH target and ionic strength. Sodium citrate is not specifically restricted by EU/FDA for general cosmetic use, so the upper end is driven mainly by sensorial/tolerance and formulation stability rather than regulation.

Sodium Cocoamphoacetate

Sodium cocoamphoacetate is an amphoteric surfactant used in cleansers (often a few to ~10%+ actives) and is generally milder than anionic sulfates, but it is still a surfactant that can disrupt barrier lipids and increase stinging in compromised skin. Clinical and patch-test experience shows low-to-moderate irritation potential overall, with higher risk in eczema, post-procedure, or very reactive individuals—especially with frequent use or in combination with other detergents. For patient safety, I rate it as mild because irritation is plausible in sensitive populations even when marketed as “gentle.” Safety Notes: In commercial rinse-off products (facial cleansers, baby washes, micellar/foaming waters, sulfate-free shampoos), sodium cocoamphoacetate is often used at low levels (~0.2–2%) as a secondary amphoteric surfactant for mildness/viscosity and foam boosting alongside other surfactants. High-strength consumer-available formulations (very mild “surfactant-only” cleansing gels/foams and some co-wash/low-irritation body washes) can use it as a primary surfactant system, with active-matter equivalents commonly landing around ~5–15% and reaching about ~20% in aggressive-but-OTC rinse-off concentrates. It is rarely used meaningfully in leave-on products except at trace levels from solubilized cleansing systems, so the upper end is primarily relevant to rinse-off products and depends on whether the stated percentage refers to supplied raw material vs active matter.

Sodium Cocoate

Sodium cocoate is a sodium soap (fatty acid salt) used at high concentrations in bar soaps and some cleansers, typically creating an alkaline, high-pH wash that disrupts the stratum corneum lipids and increases transepidermal water loss. Clinically, soap-based surfactants are well-known to cause stinging, dryness, and eczema flares—especially with frequent use or compromised skin—making irritation likely in sensitive populations even without true allergy. Safety Notes: Sodium cocoate (the sodium salt of coconut fatty acids; a true soap) is most commonly used in rinse-off cleansing bars and some liquid soaps, but it also appears at very low levels (~0.1–1%) in syndet or hybrid cleansers as a secondary surfactant/structure contributor or as carryover from soap-based components. The highest consumer-available levels are found in traditional cold-process/hot-process “coconut soap” bars and soap flakes where sodium cocoate can constitute the dominant bulk of the formula (typically 60–85% of the finished bar after cure, with the remainder being water, glycerin, and minor additives). This ingredient is generally not used in leave-on products at meaningful levels due to high pH/irritancy typical of soap systems.

Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids

Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids is a mild amino-acid–derived anionic surfactant used primarily in cleansers, typically at a few percent in finished formulas, and is generally less irritating than harsher sulfates. However, as a cleansing surfactant it can still disrupt barrier lipids and provoke stinging or dryness in eczema-prone or compromised skin with repeated use or longer contact time. Given real-world cumulative exposure in routines and sensitive-skin populations, it fits a gentle-but-not-inert irritancy profile. Safety Notes: In commercial products, Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids is most often used as a mild primary or secondary surfactant in rinse-off cleansers, with low levels (~0.1–1%) appearing in micellar waters, facial cleansers, and baby washes as a mildness/foam modifier in mixed-surfactant systems. Mainstream sulfate-free facial and body cleansers commonly use ~2–10% of the ingredient (or equivalent active matter when supplied as a solution), while high-foaming “amino acid cleanser” pastes/creams and concentrated syndet-style wash products sold OTC can reach ~15–25% as a key surfactant component; use at these higher levels is primarily rinse-off rather than leave-on due to surfactant irritation potential.

Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate

Sodium cocoyl glutamate is an amino-acid–derived anionic surfactant used primarily as a cleanser (commonly several percent in rinse-off formulas), and it is generally milder than sulfates but still capable of causing stinging, dryness, or barrier disruption in reactive or eczematous skin. Clinical and consumer patch testing data typically show low-to-moderate irritation rates, yet surfactants remain a common trigger when skin is compromised or when combined with other actives in a routine. Given its surfactant nature and the higher-risk population (atopic/sensitized skin), a mild irritancy score is the safest clinically-aligned assessment. Safety Notes: In commercial products, sodium cocoyl glutamate is used at very low levels (~0.1–0.5%) as a secondary mild co-surfactant/foam booster or irritation-mitigator in rinse-off cleansers and shampoos, and occasionally in low-foaming micellar/cleansing waters. At the high end, consumer-available “amino-acid surfactant” cleansing pastes, facial cleansers, and syndet-style bars can reach ~10–20% sodium cocoyl glutamate (as supplied/active) as a primary anionic surfactant in the total surfactant system; such levels are generally restricted to rinse-off formats due to leave-on irritation potential and sensorial/stability constraints.

Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate

Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate is an amino acid–based anionic surfactant used primarily in cleansers (often a few percent up to ~10% in finished formulas) and is generally milder than classic sulfates, with lower sting and barrier disruption in comparative testing. However, as a true cleansing surfactant it can still provoke dryness, stinging, or eczema flares with frequent use, contact time, or in compromised skin, so it is best classified as gentle rather than very gentle for highly reactive patients. Safety Notes: In commercial products, sodium cocoyl glycinate appears at very low levels (~0.2–1%) as a secondary/co-surfactant in mild facial cleansers, micellar/low-foam cleansers, and sulfate-free shampoo/body wash systems where other surfactants carry most of the detergency. Typical rinse-off cleansers more commonly use it around a few percent active, while high-foaming “amino acid cleanser” bars, powders, and concentrated paste/cream cleansers sold OTC can reach very high total surfactant loads, with sodium cocoyl glycinate observed up to ~20–25% in the surfactant blend. It is predominantly a rinse-off ingredient; leave-on usage is uncommon and generally kept low due to irritation potential and residue/feel constraints.

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a mild anionic surfactant used in cleansers (often ~5–20% in syndet bars or lower in liquid formulas) and is generally less irritating than sulfate surfactants, but it can still disrupt the skin barrier and sting, especially on compromised/eczema-prone skin. Patch testing and real-world use show occasional irritation or dryness in reactive individuals, particularly with frequent cleansing or in combination with other irritants in a routine. Given its surfactant nature and cumulative barrier impact, I score it as mild rather than “gentle” for highly sensitive populations. Safety Notes: In commercial rinse-off products, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) can appear at very low levels (~0.1–1%) as a secondary co-surfactant/foam booster in liquid cleansers and body washes. Most mainstream syndet bars and gentle facial cleansers use mid-range levels (commonly ~5–30% active SCI, depending on whether the raw material is noodles/powder or pre-diluted blends). High-strength consumer-available syndet bars and concentrated solid shampoo/cleansing bars can reach ~50–75% SCI (often in anhydrous/low-water formats), while it is uncommon in leave-on products beyond trace levels due to its primary role as a surfactant.

Sodium Dehydroacetate

Sodium dehydroacetate is a preservative/antimicrobial typically used around ~0.2–0.6% in leave-on and rinse-off products. Human patch testing and post-market experience generally show low rates of irritation, but preservatives can still provoke stinging or mild irritant dermatitis in highly reactive or barrier-impaired skin (e.g., eczema), especially with cumulative exposure from multiple products. Given its preservative role and the need to err on patient safety for sensitive populations, I rate it as mild rather than “gentle.” Safety Notes: In commercial cosmetics, sodium dehydroacetate is most often used as a preservative in leave-on and rinse-off products around ~0.1–0.6%, with low-end usage (~0.05%) typically appearing in multi-hurdle systems (e.g., combined with organic acids/chelators) or low-risk rinse-off formulas. High-strength consumer-available products (including some “preservative booster” concentrates and water-rich formulations built around dehydroacetate systems) can reach about 1.0%, which aligns with common EU preservative use limits for dehydroacetic acid/dehydroacetates and reflects the upper end seen in OTC formulations rather than prescription/professional-only products.

Sodium Dextran Sulfate

Sodium dextran sulfate is a highly water-soluble sulfated polysaccharide primarily used as a film-former/viscosity modifier or bioactive polymer; while often used at low levels, its strong anionic (sulfated) charge can increase stinging/irritation on compromised barriers compared with neutral dextrans. Clinically, sulfated polyanions are generally not common allergens, but they can be mildly irritating in eczema or post-procedure skin, so I score it as mild rather than gentle to reflect real-world reactive-patient risk and cumulative routine exposure. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, sodium dextran sulfate is most often used at very low levels (~0.01–0.2%) in leave-on calming/anti-redness serums, post-procedure-style barrier products, and eye-area formulas where it functions as a soothing/anti-inflammatory polymer. Higher-strength consumer-available leave-on products (targeting visible redness, irritation, or blemish-associated inflammation) have been observed around ~0.5–2.0%; above this it becomes uncommon due to viscosity/feel, potential tackiness/film formation, and rising irritation risk. Rinse-off use is less common; when used, it typically stays toward the lower end because wash-off contact time limits benefit and higher levels can negatively impact texture and foaming.

Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine

Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine is an amino-acid–derived amphiphilic surfactant/emulsifier used at low percentages in cleansers and barrier-support formulas, generally designed to be milder than traditional anionic detergents. While it is typically well-tolerated in patch testing and sensitive-skin use, any surfactant can provoke stinging or dryness in compromised eczema skin—especially when combined with other cleansing agents or frequent washing—so it is best categorized as very gentle rather than inert. Safety Notes: Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine is a mild amino-acid–derived anionic surfactant/foam booster used mainly in rinse-off cleansers, shampoos, and body washes; in commercial formulas it is often present at low levels (~0.05–0.5%) as a secondary surfactant or sensorial/foam modifier. Higher-strength consumer-available rinse-off products (including sulfate-free and high-foam cleansing bases) can use it as a primary or co-primary surfactant system component around ~1–5% to build viscosity and foam while maintaining mildness; it is rarely used at meaningful levels in leave-on products.

Sodium Formate

Sodium formate is primarily a buffering/ionic strength agent and may appear benign at the low concentrations typically used in cosmetics, but formate salts can be irritating on compromised skin due to osmotic/ionic effects and potential pH shifts depending on the overall formula. Human data in cosmetics is limited and it is not a common sensitizer, yet in eczema-prone or barrier-impaired patients even small amounts of simple salts can sting and provoke erythema. Given the uncertainty in routine exposure data and my obligation to err on safety for highly reactive skin, I rate it as mild with occasional sensitivity possible. Safety Notes: In consumer skincare, sodium formate is most often encountered as a minor buffering/ionic-strength adjunct or as a trace component of preservative/processing systems, commonly appearing around 0.01–0.3% (especially in rinse-off cleansers and some leave-on lotions/serums where it supports pH or stability). Higher levels are seen in niche/high-alkaline or salt-heavy formulations (e.g., certain soaps, shaving/depilatory-type or specialty treatment products sold OTC) where it can function as a stronger buffer/salt component, reaching about 1–5% at the upper end of observed commercial use. There is no widely cited EU/FDA-specific maximum for sodium formate as a cosmetic ingredient, so practical limits are driven by skin tolerability, ionic strength, and pH/stability constraints rather than a hard regulatory cap.

Sodium Gluconate

Sodium gluconate is primarily a chelating/sequestering agent used at low concentrations (typically ~0.05–0.5%, occasionally up to ~1%) to improve formula stability and reduce metal-catalyzed irritation from other ingredients. Human patch testing and clinical use generally show very low irritation and low sensitization potential, though rare stinging or dermatitis can occur in highly reactive or barrier-impaired skin. Given its widespread tolerance but non-zero risk in compromised eczema-prone patients, it fits best as very gentle rather than fully inert. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, sodium gluconate is most commonly used as a chelating/sequestrant and formulation stabilizer at very low levels, with the lowest observed use around 0.02% in leave-on creams/lotions and gentle cleansers where it supports preservative performance and reduces metal-catalyzed discoloration. Typical mass-market use is ~0.05–0.3%, while higher-strength consumer-available products (especially exfoliating/acid serums, masks, and some cleansing concentrates) can reach about 1–2% to boost chelation/buffering and stability in challenging systems. It is not specifically restricted by major cosmetic regulations as an active, so the upper end is driven mainly by sensorial impact, ionic strength/compatibility, and diminishing returns rather than a hard legal cap.

Sodium Glycolate

Sodium glycolate is the neutralized salt of glycolic acid used as an exfoliating/humectant ingredient; in leave-on products it can still contribute to increased glycolate availability and a functional pH that promotes sting, especially at typical AHA-relevant levels (~2–10%). Clinically, glycolic systems are associated with burning/erythema in sensitive or eczematous skin even when partially neutralized, and cumulative irritation risk rises when layered with retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or other acids. For compromised skin, I treat sodium glycolate as an active requiring careful introduction and patch testing rather than a “gentle” salt. Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, sodium glycolate is most often used as the neutralized salt form of glycolic acid (AHA) within exfoliating systems or as part of pH-adjustment/buffering, so it can appear at very low levels (~0.05–0.3%) in gentle cleansers/toners where the exfoliation claim is minimal and the salt primarily supports pH control. The upper end is observed in high-strength consumer AHA leave-on products where a portion of the total glycolic system is present as sodium glycolate (partially or fully neutralized), reaching up to ~10% sodium glycolate in strongly buffered/neutralized exfoliating gels/lotions (distinct from professional peels). Rinse-off products typically sit lower due to short contact time and irritation management, while leave-on exfoliants drive the highest market levels; there is no specific EU/FDA concentration cap for sodium glycolate itself, but practical use is constrained by pH, irritation potential, and overall AHA system strength.

Sodium Hexametaphosphate

Sodium hexametaphosphate is a chelating/sequestering agent used at low levels (typically well under 1%) to bind metal ions and improve product stability and performance. Human irritation risk at these cosmetic concentrations is generally low, but as an inorganic phosphate salt it can contribute to stinging or irritation on compromised skin (e.g., eczema flares) and is not as universally inert as water or simple emollients. Given sensitive-skin and barrier-impaired populations, I rate it as gentle but not irritation-free. Safety Notes: Sodium hexametaphosphate is used in skincare/personal-care primarily as a chelating/sequestering agent and water-softener aid, and in real-world leave-on products it is typically present at very low levels (often ~0.01–0.3%) to improve stability and reduce metal-ion catalyzed discoloration/odor. In rinse-off cleansers, shampoos, and bath products it is also used for water-softening/anti-soap scum and can be found at higher levels, with some OTC consumer formulations (including hard-water/clarifying or chelating-focused products and some exfoliating/scrub-type systems) reaching into the low single digits; around 5% represents the upper end observed for consumer-available rinse-off products, with higher levels being uncommon due to sensorial, pH/ionic strength, and deposition/stability constraints.

Sodium Hyaluronate

MVP Approved - Sodium Hyaluronate is a highly effective humectant known for its exceptional moisture-binding properties and excellent skin tolerance.

Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer

MVP Approved - Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer is a cross‐linked hyaluronic acid derivative used primarily for intense hydration in skincare, with additional anti-aging and soothing properties, and it is generally well-tolerated.

Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol

Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol is a modified hyaluronic acid derivative used primarily as a humectant/skin-conditioning agent, typically at low concentrations (often well under 1%), and hyaluronate materials are generally well-tolerated in patch testing and clinical use. However, because this is a chemically modified derivative and finished-formula irritation can occur from polymeric film-formers on highly compromised skin (stinging/tightness, especially with leave-on products), it cannot be treated as inert. Overall, it fits a very gentle profile for most sensitive users, with low but non-zero irritation potential. Safety Notes: Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol is a specialty silanol-modified hyaluronate typically used at low levels as a claim/feel-active in leave-on serums and creams, with commercial usage commonly starting around 0.01–0.05% in multi-humectant formulas. High-strength consumer-available hydrating/firming concentrates and ampoules have been observed using it around 1–2% (where tack/film formation and viscosity rise become limiting), while rinse-off cleansers typically stay at the low end due to cost and limited deposition.

Sodium Hydroxide

MVP Approved - Sodium Hydroxide is a strong alkaline substance used in skincare primarily as a pH adjuster and neutralizing agent; when properly formulated at very low concentrations, it minimizes skin irritation.

Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate

Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate is a preservative (formaldehyde-releasing) typically used at low concentrations (~0.1–0.5%), but it has documented potential to cause irritant reactions and, more importantly, allergic contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals. In eczema-prone and barrier-compromised skin, formaldehyde releasers are a higher-risk category due to delayed sensitization and cumulative exposure from multiple products. Given its preservative role and clinically recognized sensitization potential even at typical use levels, it warrants a notable irritancy score with careful use and patch testing in sensitive populations. Safety Notes: Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate is used in consumer cosmetics primarily as a formaldehyde-releasing preservative, with real-world leave-on products (lotions, creams, serums) often formulated around ~0.1–0.3% and some rinse-off cleansers at similar or slightly higher levels depending on preservative system load. The lowest observed commercial uses are around 0.05% when paired with additional preservatives/chelators and low microbial risk formats, while the highest consumer-available uses approach ~0.5% in higher-challenge systems seeking broad-spectrum preservation. In the EU it is regulated with a maximum of 0.5% (as sodium hydroxymethylglycinate), which effectively caps the top end seen in mainstream OTC products.

Sodium Isethionate

Sodium isethionate is primarily a mild anionic surfactant/cleansing agent used in rinse-off cleansers and syndet bars, where it is generally well-tolerated at typical use levels. Clinical and practical experience place it among gentler surfactants than SLS, but as a detergent it can still disrupt barrier lipids and provoke stinging or dryness in eczema-prone or highly compromised skin, especially with frequent use or hot water. Given sensitive-skin populations and cumulative surfactant exposure in routines, it fits best as “gentle” rather than “very gentle.” Safety Notes: In consumer products, sodium isethionate is most commonly used as a mild anionic surfactant in rinse-off cleansing systems (facial/body cleansers, syndet bars, shampoos), where finished-formula levels can start around ~0.1–1% in very low-foam co-surfactant or “mildness” blends. At the high end, syndet/solid cleanser formats and concentrated surfactant bases sold to consumers can contain very large fractions of SCI-derived surfactant solids, with finished bars or paste cleansers reaching ~30–50% sodium isethionate. It is rarely used in leave-on skincare except at very low levels (typically ≤1%) due to surfactant/irritancy and sensorial constraints.

Sodium Lactate

MVP Approved - Sodium lactate is a humectant primarily used in skincare for hydration and pH regulation, and it is generally very well tolerated.

Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate

Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate is an anionic surfactant/cleansing agent typically used in low-to-moderate percentages in rinse-off products, where its irritation potential is lower than harsher sulfates but still clinically relevant. Surfactants can disrupt the stratum corneum barrier and increase transepidermal water loss, and in sensitive populations (eczema/atopic skin) even “milder” anionics can trigger stinging, dryness, or flares, especially with frequent use or when combined with other cleansers/actives. Based on its functional role and known surfactant-related barrier effects, I rate it as mild with occasional sensitivity possible. Safety Notes: Sodium Laureth-13 Carboxylate is an anionic surfactant most commonly used in rinse-off cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and micellar/cleansing waters, where it may appear at very low levels (~0.05–0.5%) as a secondary surfactant/solubilizer or mildness booster alongside other primary detergents. In mainstream rinse-off formulas it is often in the low single digits, while high-foaming or high-actives (surfactant-forward) consumer cleansing concentrates and some micellar/cleansing bases can reach the low-to-high teens, with the upper end around ~20% in stronger OTC rinse-off systems; leave-on use is uncommon and typically stays at the low end due to irritation potential.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate

Sodium Laureth Sulfate is an anionic surfactant used primarily for cleansing/foaming, commonly at a few percent to ~10%+ in rinse-off products, and it has well-documented irritant potential through barrier lipid disruption and increased transepidermal water loss. Human patch testing and real-world use show higher rates of stinging, dryness, and eczema flares in sensitive individuals compared with milder surfactants, with risk amplified by frequent use and concurrent actives. Given its consistent association with irritant contact dermatitis—especially in compromised skin—this warrants a significant irritancy score for patient safety. Safety Notes: In consumer products, Sodium Laureth Sulfate is most commonly used in rinse-off formats (cleansers, shampoos, body washes, bubble baths), with very low levels (~0.2–1%) appearing in mild cleansing emulsions, micellar-type rinse-off cleansers, and as a secondary anionic surfactant/foam booster alongside amphoterics. The high end (15–25%) is observed in high-foaming shampoos, liquid hand soaps, and bath products where SLES is a primary surfactant; higher levels are generally limited by irritation potential and viscosity/salt-curve constraints, and SLES is rarely used in true leave-on products except at trace levels from carryover.

Sodium Lauroamphoacetate

Sodium lauroamphoacetate is an amphoteric surfactant used in cleansers/shampoos (often a few percent up to ~10%+ in rinse-off systems) and is generally milder than anionic sulfates, but it is still a detergent that can sting and disrupt barrier lipids in eczema-prone or highly reactive skin. Human patch/usage data for amphoterics show low-to-moderate irritation overall with higher risk on compromised skin and with frequent cleansing or combination with other surfactants. Given cumulative routine exposure and the disproportionate risk in sensitive populations, I rate it as mild rather than “gentle.” Safety Notes: In commercial products, sodium lauroamphoacetate is most often used in rinse-off cleansing systems; at the low end (~0.1–1%) it appears as a mildness/foam-supporting co-surfactant in facial cleansers, body washes, and baby washes. Typical primary-surfactant use levels are commonly ~3–15% active in finished formulas, while high-strength consumer-available products such as concentrated/“water-activated” cleansing pastes, solid syndet bars, and some micellar/cleansing concentrates can reach ~20–30% in the finished product (excluding professional-only and prescription products). Leave-on use is uncommon and generally kept low due to surfactant residue/irritation potential.

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate

Sodium lauroyl glutamate is an amino-acid–derived anionic surfactant used mainly in cleansers (often a few percent in formulas) and is generally measurably less irritating than classic sulfates like SLS. However, as a surfactant it can still disrupt barrier lipids and provoke stinging or eczema flares with frequent cleansing, especially in compromised or very reactive skin. Given real-world cumulative exposure in routines and sensitive-skin populations, it fits best as "gentle" rather than "very gentle." Safety Notes: In commercial leave-on products (e.g., creams/lotions/serums), sodium lauroyl glutamate is often used as a mild co-emulsifier/skin-feel modifier or solubilization aid at very low levels, with observed use starting around ~0.05–0.2%. In rinse-off cleansing systems (facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos), it commonly appears as part of the primary surfactant blend, typically ~2–12% active, and high-strength consumer-available “amino acid surfactant” cleansers can reach ~20–35% when positioned as concentrated bases where this surfactant is a major/primary detergent. The upper end reflects concentrated rinse-off products; such levels are generally impractical in leave-on due to irritation potential and formulation sensorial constraints.

Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate

MVP Approved - Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate is a mild surfactant and emulsifier used primarily to improve product texture and cleansing performance with minimal irritation risk.

Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate

Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate is a mild anionic surfactant commonly used in cleansers and syndet bars (often several percent up to higher levels in solid bars) and is generally less irritating than sulfates in patch/usage testing. However, as a detergent it can still disrupt barrier lipids and provoke stinging or eczema flares in compromised or highly reactive skin, especially with frequent cleansing or in multi-active routines. Given its overall good tolerability but non-zero risk inherent to surfactants, a gentle (not exceptionally gentle) score is most consistent with patient-safety benchmarks. Safety Notes: In commercial rinse-off facial/body cleansers and shampoo/conditioning shampoo systems, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate is often used at low levels (~0.5–2%) as a mildness/foam booster alongside other surfactants, while mainstream sulfate-free cleansers commonly sit around ~3–12%. The highest consumer-available levels are found in syndet bars and high-solids cleanser concentrates where total isethionate surfactant actives can be very high; finished products can reach ~15–30% SLMIs depending on whether the raw material is supplied as neat flakes or diluted noodles. It is rarely used in leave-on products except at trace/very low levels due to its primary function as an anionic rinse-off surfactant.

Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids

Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids is a mild anionic/amino-acid–derived surfactant used in cleansers (typically a few percent in finished formulas) to provide gentle cleansing with better tolerability than harsher sulfates. Patch-test and use data for amino-acid and oat-derived surfactants generally show low irritation, but as a true surfactant it can still disrupt the barrier with frequent use or in eczema-prone skin, so a small but real irritation risk remains. Safety Notes: In commercial leave-on products (serums/creams), Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids is typically used as a mild conditioning/skin-feel and barrier-support adjunct at very low levels (~0.05–0.5%). In rinse-off cleansers, shampoos, and body washes it is used as a primary or co-surfactant, most commonly a few percent active, with high-strength “amino-acid surfactant” cleansing concentrates and bars reaching ~10–20% to build detergency while maintaining mildness. This range reflects observed OTC consumer products; actual as-sold percentages depend on whether the raw material is supplied diluted or as higher-actives, but the finished-formula usage level can span from trace conditioning levels up to surfactant-system major component levels.