Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Sodium Stearoyl-2-Lactylate, SSL
Stabilises the water phase of formulas that contain hydrating ingredients | Works via its interaction with proteins and starches, where it can also help modify a product’s texture
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate?
Sodium stearoyl lactylate is a synthetic or animal-derived ingredient ( uses the former) that stabilizes the water phase of moisturizers and other skin care products that contain hydrating ingredients. Sodium stearoyl lactylate works via its interaction with proteins and starches, where it can also help modify a product’s texture. It is often classified as a surfactant/emulsifying agent. As a raw material, sodium stearoyl lactylate is described as a white to pale yellow waxy substance. The 2019 Cosmetic Ingredient Review assessment of sodium stearoyl lactylate deemed it to be a safe cosmetic ingredient in the practices of use and concentrations described in their report. They surveyed 358 products using between 0.00011-7% concentration.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Cosmetic Ingredient Review, July 2019, pages 1-22 [https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/alkylL062019final.pdf]
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Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, December 2016, pages 393-404 [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0021979716305677]
Frequently Asked Questions
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