What it is
Sodium lauroyl lactylate is the sodium salt of the lauric acid ester of lactylic acid, classed as an alpha-hydroxy-acid-based lactylate emulsifier. It stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions, can boost the wetting and dispersion of powders, and imparts a soft, conditioned afterfeel. It is appreciated for being mild and for working well at low use levels in skin care and sun care.
Safety & warnings
Sodium lauroyl lactylate is regarded as a mild surfactant with low irritation potential and is well tolerated at typical use levels. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
Derived from natural feedstocks: lauric acid (commonly from coconut or palm) combined with lactic acid, then neutralized; produced by synthetic esterification.
Questions everyone asks
What is sodium lauroyl lactylate made from?
It combines lauric acid, often sourced from coconut or palm, with lactic acid, and is neutralized to the sodium salt to form a mild emulsifier.
Is it a harsh detergent?
No. It is considered a mild emulsifying surfactant used to stabilize emulsions and condition skin rather than as a strong foaming cleanser.