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Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate

  • Anionic surfactants
  • CAS 137-16-6
  • IUPAC: Sodium N-lauroylsarcosinate

Mild anionic surfactant with low irritation potential compared to SLS. No sensitization, no mutagenicity, no carcinogenicity at ingredient level. Used widely in personal care products (toothpaste, shampoo) at higher concentrations than typical cleaning product use. May contribute to mild eye irritation in concentrated form.

Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate is a mild anionic surfactant derived from sarcosine (N-methylglycine, a natural amino acid) and lauric acid (from coconut oil). It functions as a secondary surfactant, foam booster, and emulsifier in cleaning and personal care formulations. Milder than sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) with better skin compatibility, making it a common co-surfactant in formulations seeking to reduce irritation while maintaining cleaning performance. EPA Safer Choice listed. Readily biodegradable. No aquatic toxicity concerns at typical use concentrations. Not a Prop 65 chemical, not an asthmagen, not a sensitizer.

Health & environment profile

VOC
no
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
yes
Aquatic toxicity
no
Biodegradable
yes
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
2/5
Purpose: Mild anionic surfactant — foaming agent, emulsifier, and secondary cleaner in personal care and cleaning products

1 product contain this

Health summaries are editorial — we synthesize from SDSs, peer-reviewed sources, and regulatory listings. Not medical advice.