What Is Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate?
As an amino-acid–derived surfactant, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate helps water lift away oil, dirt, and impurities so they can be rinsed from the skin. Compared to traditional sulfate-based surfactants, this type of cleanser provides effective cleansing with a lower risk of irritation.
Facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, and oral care products commonly include it in formulas intended for daily use.
Where Does It Come From?
Production typically involves fatty acids sourced from coconut oil or palm kernel oil combined with sarcosine, an amino acid derivative. This amino-acid–based structure contributes to gentle cleansing behavior and good skin compatibility.
Although chemically processed, the ingredient’s origin and performance make it a popular choice in mild and sulfate-free formulations.
Why Is It Used in Skincare?
Formulators often select this surfactant for its balance between cleansing performance and skin comfort. A smooth, creamy foam allows effective cleansing without leaving the skin feeling overly dry or tight.
Common reasons for its use include:
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Gentle yet effective cleansing
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Silky, low-irritation foam
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Good compatibility with sensitive and acne-prone skin
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Improved feel and spread of cleansers
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Use as a sulfate alternative
As a result, it appears frequently in facial cleansers, shampoos, and personal care products designed for regular use.
Is It Gentle on Skin?
In most cases, yes. The amino-acid–derived structure helps reduce irritation compared to stronger surfactants, particularly when used in balanced formulations.
Sensitive skin, oily skin, and acne-prone formulations often rely on this type of cleanser to maintain effective cleansing without excessively disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. Pairing it with other mild surfactants for sensitive skin can further reduce irritation risk.
Who Should Be Cautious?
Despite its mild profile, individual skin responses can vary. People with extremely sensitive or compromised skin barriers should patch-test new products before regular use.
As with most cleansers, irritation is more commonly linked to added fragrances, essential oils, or preservatives rather than the surfactant itself.
Key Takeaways
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A mild, amino-acid–derived surfactant used in gentle cleansing formulas
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Provides effective cleansing with a silky, low-irritation foam
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Commonly used as a sulfate alternative in modern formulations
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Suitable for daily use in sensitive and acne-prone skin products
To better understand how different surfactants compare, see our guide on natural vs synthetic surfactants.