Ingredient dictionary

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is a gentle cleansing agent, called a surfactant, that lifts oil and dirt off skin and hair so they rinse away. It is on the label of 25 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate does

Cleans skin and hair by lifting oil and dirt
Creates a soft, creamy lather
Often blended with other cleansers for a gentler feel

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is made by joining sarcosine, a simple amino acid, with lauric acid, a fatty acid that comes mainly from coconut and palm kernel oils. The result is neutralized with sodium so it dissolves easily in water. Like other surfactants, it has an oil-loving end and a water-loving end, which lets it lift oil and dirt away from skin and hair.

Formulators like it for its dense, creamy lather and its clean rinse without the tight, squeaky feel some cleansers leave behind. It is often blended with other surfactants to balance foam and feel. It is generally considered one of the milder cleansing ingredients in its class.

Good for

Suits anyone wanting a mild, creamy cleanser for face, body, or hair, especially if stronger cleansers feel tight or drying.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate a sulfate?

No. It is an amino acid based surfactant, not a sulfate. Sulfates like sodium laureth sulfate are a different family. Sarcosinates are usually considered milder, though any cleanser can still dry out very sensitive or dry skin.

Is Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate safe for sensitive skin?

It is generally well tolerated and is often picked for gentler cleansers. Everyone reacts differently, though. If your skin tends to feel tight after washing, rinse well, pat dry, and follow with a moisturizer. If irritation lasts, check with a dermatologist.