Anionic surfactant
MEA-LAURYL SULFATE
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
Monoethanolamine salt of lauryl sulfate used as a strong cleansing surfactant. PubChem GHS lists Danger signal word with serious eye damage and skin irritation, so it is best limited to rinse-off uses.
Skin benefits
- Effective anionic surfactant for cleansing and foaming
- Provides desired lather in shampoos and body washes
- Lower in alkalinity than some sodium-based sulfates
- Widely characterized in toxicological literature
Known concerns
- PubChem GHS classifies it as causing skin irritation (H315) and serious eye damage (H318)
- Signal word Danger with corrosive and irritant pictograms
- Ethanolamine counterion has regulatory and nitrosamine considerations
- Not ideal for sensitive skin or leave-on use
- Best limited to rinse-off applications with thorough rinsing
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related anionic surfactants
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.