Sodium Isostearate
The sodium salt of isostearic acid (a branched-chain C18 fatty acid), used as a mild anionic surfactant, emulsifier, and opacifying agent in cleansers and moisturizers.
Benefits
- ✓Mild anionic surfactant/emulsifier
- ✓Helps stabilize and opacify cream and lotion formulas
No known watch-fors.
In depth
What it does
The sodium salt of isostearic acid (a branched-chain C18 fatty acid), used as a mild anionic surfactant, emulsifier, and opacifying agent in cleansers and moisturizers. As an surfactant ingredient, it is particularly valued for mild anionic surfactant/emulsifier and helps stabilize and opacify cream and lotion formulas.
Skin type guide
Generally well-tolerated across skin types. Patch testing is still recommended when introducing any new ingredient.
How to use it
Used as part of a cleanser, so placement is straightforward — it's your first step, applied to damp skin and rinsed off thoroughly. Avoid overwashing, which can disrupt the skin barrier.
