CAS Number:
39354-45-5
Chemical Type:
Sulfosuccinate ester
EINECS / ELINCS:
254-391-3
COSING Ref. No.:
33704
Ionic Character:
Anionic
Description:
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate is a mild anionic surfactant widely used in cosmetic and personal care formulations.
It is known for its excellent cleansing ability combined with low irritation potential, making it especially suitable for gentle and sensitive-skin products.
The 30% active grade is supplied as an aqueous solution, offering good handling properties, formulation flexibility, and ease of incorporation into surfactant systems.
Functions in Cosmetic Formulations:
This ingredient provides multiple functional benefits:
Primary cleansing surfactant
Foam producer with creamy lather
Mildness enhancer
Good skin compatibility
Suitable for sensitive formulations
Applications
Commonly used in rinse-off personal care products, including:
Shampoos
Baby shampoos
Facial cleansers
Body washes and shower gels
Hand soaps
Syndet and sulfate-free cleansing systems
Origin:
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate is a synthetic surfactant produced by the esterification of ethoxylated fatty alcohols followed by sulfonation and neutralization with sodium salts.
The resulting molecule combines efficient cleansing performance with enhanced mildness compared to conventional sulfated surfactants.
Safety Profile:
General status: Considered safe for cosmetic use
Skin compatibility: Very mild, suitable for sensitive skin and baby products
Eye irritation: Significantly lower than traditional anionic surfactants
Formulation safety: Well tolerated when used at recommended levels
Technical – Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate 30% Active:
| Property | Values |
| Appearance | Clear to slightly hazy liquid |
| Color | Colorless to pale yellow |
| Active Matter | ~30% |
| Ionic Nature | Anionic |
| pH (as supplied) | Typically 5.5 – 7.5 |
| Density (20 °C) | ~1.05 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Readily soluble in water |
| Viscosity | Low to medium (grade dependent) |
| Typical Use Level | 3% – 10% in final formulations |
Formulation Notes:
Compatible with amphoteric and nonionic surfactants
Produces dense, creamy foam
Performs well in low-irritation and sulfate-free systems
Maintains stability across a broad pH range
Summary:
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate (30% Active) is a mild anionic surfactant offering effective cleansing, creamy foam, and excellent skin tolerance. It is particularly suited for gentle, sulfate-free, and sensitive-skin cleansing formulations, while maintaining good formulation stability and performance.