Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate

Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate Description

Sodium lauroyl lactylate is a naturally derived ingredient used in skin and hair care products. It is the sodium salt of the reaction of fatty acid lauric acid and the alpha hydroxy acid lactic acid. Sodium lauryoyl lactylate is used as an emulsifier and mild thickening agent in cosmetics.

In higher concentrations, it functions as a surfactant, meaning it lowers the surface tension between two substances. This makes oil and dirt rinse more easily washed from skin. As such, sodium lauroyl lactylate is a common ingredient in cleansers and shampoos.

The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has ruled sodium lauroyl lactylate safe as used in cosmetics. Typical usage levels range from 0.5–5%.