Sodium Lauryl Sulphoacetate (SLSA)

Sodium Lauryl Sulphoacetate (SLSA) is a gentle, sulfate-free surfactant derived from natural coconut and palm oils. It is widely used in personal care products due to its excellent foaming and cleansing properties, as well as its mildness compared to traditional surfactants like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS).

Applications

1. Foaming Agent:
   • Produces luxurious, stable foam even in hard water.
   • Used in bath bombs, bubble baths, and shampoos.
2. Mild Cleanser:
   • Provides effective cleansing without harshness, suitable for sensitive skin.
3. Surfactant:
   • Reduces surface tension, allowing oil and water to mix effectively.
4. Dispersing Agent:
   • Helps to evenly distribute other ingredients in formulations.

Common Uses

• Shampoos
• Body washes
• Bubble baths
• Bath bombs
• Facial cleansers
• Toothpastes
• Solid cleansers like shampoo bars or syndet bars

Benefits

• Gentle on Skin: Non-irritating and suitable for sensitive or delicate skin.
• High Foaming: Produces creamy, rich foam.
• Eco-Friendly: Derived from renewable resources and biodegradable.
• Versatile: Compatible with other surfactants, making it suitable for a wide range of formulations.

How to Use in Formulations

1. Incorporation:
   • Typically added in the surfactant or dry phase of formulations.
   • For solid products like bath bombs, it is mixed with other powders and binders.
2. Recommended Dosage:
   • Liquid products: 3–10%
   • Solid products (e.g., bath bombs): 10–30%
3. Temperature:
   • Avoid overheating to prevent clumping or degradation. Add during the cooling phase for liquid formulations.

Safety and Handling

• Safety: Generally regarded as safe (GRAS) for cosmetic use. It is milder than sulfates like SLS and less likely to cause irritation.
• Handling:
  • Avoid inhalation of fine particles; wear a mask during processing.
  • Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture.

Comparison to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)