Ingredient dictionary

Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate

Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate is a mild cleansing agent, or surfactant, that lifts oil and dirt off skin and hair so they rinse away. It is on the label of 10 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate does

Cleans by lifting oil and dirt
Creates a soft, creamy lather
Main cleanser in syndet (non-soap) bars
Milder than many traditional sulfate cleansers

Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate is made by joining a fatty acid, usually one from coconut oil, to a salt of isethionic acid (a small, water-friendly acid). The result is a surfactant, a molecule with one water-loving end and one oil-loving end. That shape lets it grab oil and dirt and carry them into the rinse water.

Formulators choose it for bars and washes because it is milder than many older cleansers such as traditional soap and some sulfates. It makes a soft, creamy lather and leaves skin feeling smooth rather than tight, though results vary by formula. It works well in both liquid washes and solid bars, where it is often the main cleanser.

Good for

Suits people with dry or sensitive skin who want a gentle wash, and fans of soft, creamy lather in bath products.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate safe for sensitive skin?

It is generally considered one of the milder cleansing agents, so many people with sensitive skin tolerate it well. Everyone reacts differently, though. If you notice stinging or redness, stop using the product and check with a dermatologist.

Is Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate the same as sodium lauryl sulfate?

No. Both are surfactants, but they are different molecules. Sodium lauryl sulfate is a stronger cleanser that many people find drying. This ingredient is generally considered gentler, which is why it appears in many bars and washes.