Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate enhances skincare formulations through its exceptional emulsifying and texture-enhancement capabilities. As an anionic emulsifier derived from lactic and stearic acids, SSL effectively stabilizes oil-in-water systems, improving product homogeneity and sensory appeal. It also acts as a humectant, forming a mild moisturizing barrier that supports skin hydration and leaves the skin feeling soft and conditioned, making it suitable for delicate or sensitive skin types.
In hair care, SSL functions as both a conditioner and foam booster. It improves the manageability and tactile quality of hair by imparting a silky texture, while also enhancing lather in cleansing products like shampoos. Additionally, SSL facilitates even dispersion of pigments or actives, ensuring consistent color and performance in formulations like masks, conditioners, and styling products.
Quick Insights
Ingredient Rating:
GOOD
Type of Ingredient:
Moisturizer, Texture Enhancer, Conditioner, Cleansing Agent and Emulsifier
Intended Function:
To stabilize emulsions, enhance texture and feel, boost foam, condition skin and hair, and support even dispersion of formulation components.
Common Applications:
Found in creams, lotions, facial cleansers, shampoos, conditioners, masks, sunscreen, color cosmetics, and body care products where improved texture, stability, and product experience are needed.
Target Audience:
Cosmetic formulators and brand owners focused on creating stable, luxurious-feeling emulsions, mild cleansers, or conditioning products — particularly for sensitive-skin or premium personal care lines.
Also Known As:
Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, SSL, Sodium 2-stearoyllactylate, lactylate emulsifier.
Safety Analysis
SSL is recognized as safe, non-toxic, and biodegradable. It is FDA-approved for both food and cosmetic applications and commonly manufactured from renewable feedstocks. In cosmetic usage (typically 3 – 20%), SSL exhibits low irritation risk, even in sensitive skin formulations, and is confirmed non-toxic in safety assessments.
References
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