Guide to Surfactants Worth Knowing

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

As a representative anionic surfactant, it is widely used in shampoos and body washes due to its excellent foaming capability and cleansing power. Because it is relatively cost-effective and quickly generates large, voluminous foam, it has high consumer preference regarding usage experience. However, since its oil-removing capacity (degreasing power) is strong, it may cause dryness, tightness, or irritation depending on the skin type.

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI)

This anionic surfactant is produced by reacting coconut-derived fatty acids with isethionic acid. It offers great cleansing power and excellent foam, and because it easily accommodates slightly acidic formulations, it is frequently used in weak-acid (pH-balanced) facial cleansers, pack-type cleanser, and shampoo bars. Its main advantage is a gentle, soft feeling during use with minimal post-wash tightness. However, due to its relatively high raw material cost and challenging formulation process, it is primarily utilized in solid or semi-solid (paste) products.

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate

This amino acid-based anionic surfactant is made by combining glutamic acid (an amino acid) with lauric acid. It provides sufficient cleansing power while remaining low in dryness and irritation, making it a popular choice for mild facial cleansers. It is characterized by leaving a moist, hydrated finish after washing without any heavy residue. To compensate for its foam density or standalone cleansing power, it is usually blended with other surfactants rather than used as a single ingredient.

Sodium Palmitate

This is a representative soap-based (fatty acid salt) anionic surfactant made by saponifying palmitic acid with sodium hydroxide. Commonly used in traditional solid bar soaps and soap-type cleansers, it boasts exceptional cleansing performance and produces a dense, rich lather. However, due to its high cleansing and degreasing efficiency, it may leave a tight or dry sensation after washing. Rather than being used as a single ingredient, it is typically combined with other surfactants to balance the performance.

"Discover 'Day Ruutin Skincare Soap Centella,' a gentle soap formulated with Sodium Palmitate"