Ingredient review
Ammonium Myreth Sulfate
INCI: Ammonium Myreth Sulfate
A common foaming cleanser ingredient that is generally milder than SLS but can still be drying for sensitive skin.
In plain English
Ammonium Myreth Sulfate is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers foam up and lift away dirt and oil from your skin and hair. It's related to sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) but is often considered a bit gentler because it's made from fatty alcohols derived from coconut or palm oil. However, like many sulfate cleansers, it can strip away natural oils, which may leave skin feeling tight or dry, especially if you have a sensitive or dry skin type.
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Ammonium Myreth Sulfate can be useful, but watch for some irritation potential.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Ammonium Myreth Sulfate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
moderateCan bother some users, especially with frequent use, damaged skin, or strong companion ingredients.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic anionic surfactant produced by sulfating myreth alcohol (a fatty alcohol derived from coconut or palm oil) and neutralizing with ammonium hydroxide. It is a common alternative to sodium lauryl sulfate in sulfate-based cleansers.
How it works
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing water to mix with oils and dirt on the skin so they can be rinsed away. Its molecules have a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail, which trap grime and allow it to be washed off with water.
Pros
Effective foaming cleanser
Produces a rich lather that many people associate with a thorough clean, making it satisfying to use in shampoos and body washes.
Milder than SLS
Compared to sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium myreth sulfate is generally less irritating to the skin and scalp, though it is still a sulfate.
Cons and cautions
Can be drying
Like other sulfates, it can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to tightness, dryness, or irritation, especially with frequent use on sensitive skin.
Not sulfate-free
For those seeking a sulfate-free routine for hair or skin, this ingredient does not qualify and may still cause issues for very reactive skin types.
Best for
- People with normal to oily skin who enjoy a foamy cleanser
- Those looking for a sulfate-based cleanser that is slightly gentler than SLS
Use caution if
- Individuals with very dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin
- Anyone following a sulfate-free or low-foam skincare routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for use in rinse-off cosmetic products at typical concentrations. It can cause mild to moderate irritation in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin or compromised skin barriers. Avoid contact with eyes.
Research notes
Studies indicate that ammonium myreth sulfate is less irritating than sodium lauryl sulfate but more irritating than non-ionic or amphoteric surfactants. The CIR panel concluded it is safe for cosmetic use when formulated to be non-irritating.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 15% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed it and found it safe for use in rinse-off products at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Shampoos, Body washes, Facial cleansers, Liquid soaps
- Environmental note
- Derived from coconut or palm oil, which may involve deforestation concerns. Some manufacturers source certified sustainable palm oil to reduce environmental impact.
Good to know
- Ammonium myreth sulfate is often found in 'sulfate-free' labeled products? No — it is a sulfate, so always check the label if you are avoiding sulfates.
- It is commonly used in professional salon shampoos because it provides a rich lather without being as harsh as SLS.
Common questions
What is Ammonium Myreth Sulfate in beauty products?
Ammonium Myreth Sulfate is a synthetic ingredient that helps cleansers foam up and lift away dirt and oil from your skin and hair. It's related to sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) but is often considered a bit gentler because it's made from fatty alcohols derived from coconut or palm oil. However, like many sulfate cleansers, it can strip away natural oils, which may leave skin feeling tight or dry, especially if you have a sensitive or dry skin type.
What does Ammonium Myreth Sulfate do in a beauty product?
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing water to mix with oils and dirt on the skin so they can be rinsed away. Its molecules have a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail, which trap grime and allow it to be washed off with water.
Is Ammonium Myreth Sulfate safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for use in rinse-off cosmetic products at typical concentrations. It can cause mild to moderate irritation in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin or compromised skin barriers. Avoid contact with eyes.
Who should be careful with Ammonium Myreth Sulfate?
Individuals with very dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin Anyone following a sulfate-free or low-foam skincare routine
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.