Back to Ingredient Dictionary

Sodium Trideceth Sulfate

Description

Sodium Trideceth Sulfate is a synthetic surfactant widely used in personal care products and cosmetic formulations. This anionic compound is derived from ethoxylated tridecyl alcohol and sulfuric acid, resulting in a versatile cleansing agent. Its primary function is to reduce surface tension between water and oils, effectively removing dirt, sebum, and other impurities from the skin and hair.

The ingredient exhibits excellent foaming and lathering properties, making it a popular choice in shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. Sodium Trideceth Sulfate is generally milder than its counterpart, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, and is less likely to cause skin irritation. This makes it suitable for use in products designed for sensitive skin types.

In formulations, Sodium Trideceth Sulfate typically appears in concentrations ranging from 1% to 50%, depending on the product type and intended use. It is often combined with other surfactants to enhance cleansing efficacy and improve the overall sensory experience of the product. While effective at removing oils, it may potentially contribute to skin dryness if used in high concentrations or frequently. Therefore, formulators often balance its use with moisturizing ingredients to maintain skin hydration.