Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Sodium N-methyl-N-oleoyltaurate, Metaupon paste, Hostapon T, Nissan diapon T, Igepon T 77, Geropon T-77, Unipon T77
Cleansing agent commonly found in shampoos, facial cleansers, and body washes | Helps build viscosity and boosts foaming properties of the formula
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate?
Sodium methyl oleoyl taurate is a cleansing agent commonly found in shampoo products where it helps build viscosity and boosts the foaming properties of the formula. This ingredient can also be found in other types of cleansing products, such as face wash, body wash, etc.
Suppliers describe sodium methyl oleoyl taurate as a gentle surfactant that contributes to a dense, creamy lather. It’s often touted as an alternative to sulfates. For the record, not all sulfates are bad; in fact most are non-irritating and completely safe as used in cosmetics.
Sodium methyl oleoyl taurate can be derived from plant, animal, or synthetic sources.
While there aren’t many independent studies about sodium methyl oleoyl taurate, it has been deemed safe in cosmetics by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Typical usage levels of sodium methyl oleoyl taurate range from 1–30%, depending on whether it’s the primary or secondary surfactant or used to thicken a formula. 2.5% is a fairly common amount for both cleansing and thickening purposes.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Personal Care Products Council, Accessed March 2023, ePublication []
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Universal Preserv-A-Chem Inc. (supplier info), Accessed March 2023, ePublication []
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Cosmetic Ingredient Review, February 2016, pages 1-23 [https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/taurat122015FR.pdf]
Frequently Asked Questions
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