Ingredient
Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate
SLMI
What it is
Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate is a coconut-derived anionic surfactant prized as a sulfate-free alternative in facial and body cleansers. It produces a creamy, low-irritation lather and is a common base in milky or syndet-bar cleansers marketed for sensitive skin.
How it works
The isethionate ester head group is less harsh than sulfate groups, so it cleanses by emulsifying oils while binding less tightly to skin proteins, reducing barrier disruption during rinse-off.
What it does
Surfactant
Cleansing
Concerns to know
-
Well tolerated
No significant safety concern is reported for this ingredient as used in cosmetics.