Sodium Tamanuseedate
INCI: SODIUM TAMANUSEEDATE
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
A multifunctional cleansing and stabilising agent used across skincare formulations
Best For Skin Types
All, Oily
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Sodium Tamanuseedate?
Sodium Tamanuseedate is a synthetic surfactant and emulsifying agent commonly used in skincare formulations. It functions as a cleansing compound whilst also helping to stabilise and thicken products, making it a versatile ingredient in both rinse-off and leave-on formulations.
As a salt-based compound, it works to suspend oils and water together and remove impurities from the skin surface, which is why it appears frequently in cleansers and other formulations where product stability is important.
How It Works
Sodium Tamanuseedate is a surfactant, meaning it has a molecular structure with both water-loving and oil-loving ends. This allows it to surround oil droplets and suspend them in water, making it possible to rinse away sebum and other oil-based impurities from the skin.
In formulations, it also acts as an emulsifier and thickening agent, helping to blend ingredients that would normally separate and giving products their desired texture and consistency.
Clinical Evidence & References
There is limited direct clinical evidence specifically evaluating Sodium Tamanuseedate in skincare applications. However, as a well-established surfactant and emulsifier class, similar ingredients have been extensively studied for safety and cleansing efficacy in consumer products.
Research on skin sodium handling suggests the skin plays a complex role in regulating sodium levels, though the relevance of cosmetic application concentrations to systemic sodium balance remains unclear. More targeted research would help clarify optimal concentrations and any potential effects specific to this ingredient.
How to Use
Sodium Tamanuseedate is typically found in rinse-off formulations such as cleansers, where it serves its primary function of removing impurities. In these products, thorough rinsing ensures complete removal. For leave-on products, it is used at lower concentrations to provide stabilisation without active cleansing. Follow the usage instructions specific to the product in which it appears.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
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Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Gentle cleansing agent with emulsifying properties | Made from amino acid glutamic acid
Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate
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
Sodium Surfactin
A naturally-derived surfactant that cleanses and stabilises formulations
Sodium Taurine Cocoyl Methyltaurate
A gentle coconut-derived cleanser that removes oil and impurities whilst maintaining skin balance
Sodium Tocopheryl Phosphate
A water-soluble vitamin E derivative that converts to active tocopherol in the skin
Sorbeth-30 Tetraisostearate
A synthetic ester that stabilises oil and water in formulations
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