Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Used as a surfactant (cleansing agent) | Can be plant-derived or created synthetically
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate?
Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate is a synthetic or plant-derived surfactant (cleansing agent) that also works as an emulsifier, which is a type of ingredient that keeps unlike substances from separating. It is most often used in face and body cleansers and shampoos but is sometimes also used in leave-on products. In cleansing formulas, it can contribute to a foaming effect.
This safe, amino acid-based surfactant works well with various glycols, silicones, solvents, and phosphate esters, making it very versatile to formulate with. Offers excellent chemical stability and is known to be gentle on skin. Coconut is a common source of sodium lauroyl sarcosinate in cosmetic products.
Safety assessments have confirmed that this ingredient is non-irritating and non-sensitizing when applied to human skin in amounts up to 15% in rinse-off and 5% in leave-on products. It is approved for use in cosmetics.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Transactions of Tianjin University, March 2020, pages 1-11 [URL_MISSING]
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IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, July 2019, pages 1-8 [URL_MISSING]
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Cosmetic Ingredient Review, September 2016, pages 1-19 [URL_MISSING]
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International Journal of Toxicology, 2001, pages 1-14 [URL_MISSING]
From the Clinic
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Sodium Laurate
An anionic surfactant derived from lauric acid, primarily used as a cleanser and emulsifier
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate
Naturally derived ingredient | Used as an emulsifier and mild thickening agent
Sodium Lauroyl Methylaminopropionate
A mild surfactant that cleanses and stabilises formulations
Sodium Methyl Isethionate
A gentle anionic surfactant derived from coconut fatty acids, commonly used to cleanse and emulsify
Sodium Oleate
A fatty acid salt that cleanses and stabilises formulations
Sodium Olivate
A plant-derived surfactant and emulsifier that supports cleansing formulations
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