Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate (SLMI)

Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate (SLMI) – Mild Anionic Surfactant for Gentle Cleansing Formulations

Basic Information

• INCI Name: Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate

• CAS Number: 928663-45-0

• Appearance: White to off-white powder or pellets

• Solubility: Soluble in water

• pH (1% solution): Typically 5.0–7.0

• Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable

Overview
Sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate (SLMI) is a mild, high-purity anionic surfactant derived from natural fatty acids. It is widely used in personal care formulations as a primary or secondary surfactant, offering an excellent balance of cleansing, foaming, and skin feel. Its gentle nature makes it particularly suitable for sulfate‑free and sensitive‑skin products.

Key Performance Features

• Mild cleansing: Provides effective cleaning without stripping natural oils, making it ideal for daily use on skin and hair.

• Creamy foam: Produces a rich, fine‑bubble, creamy lather that enhances the sensory experience of shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers.

• Static reduction: Helps reduce static electricity in hair, improving manageability and feel.

• Biodegradable: Meets environmental safety standards with rapid biodegradability.

• Compatibility: Works synergistically with other surfactants, particularly betaines and amphoteric surfactants, to boost foam and mildness.

Applications

• Sulfate‑free shampoos and conditioners.

• Body washes, facial cleansers, and baby washes.

• Syndet bars (synthetic detergent bars).

• Gentle cleansing products for sensitive or irritated skin.

• Color‑safe and keratin‑safe hair care formulations.

• Leave‑on and rinse‑off personal care products.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels: 5–25% in rinse‑off formulations, depending on the desired foam and cleansing performance. Often combined with cocamidopropyl betaine, decyl glucoside, or other mild surfactants for optimized performance.

Handling and Storage

• Store in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent caking and contamination.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, dust mask) when handling.

• Avoid inhalation of dust and contact with skin and eyes.

Packaging
Available in 25 kg bags, 50 kg drums, or custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity, active content, and pH to ensure consistent quality for personal care applications.