Ingredient review
Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate
INCI: Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate
A gentle, phosphate-based surfactant that helps cleanse without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
In plain English
Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate is a mild cleansing ingredient that helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. It's often used in gentle cleansers and shampoos because it cleans without making skin feel tight or dry. Think of it as a helper that lifts away makeup and grime while being kind to your skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
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 Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate.
- 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
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
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 semi-synthetic surfactant and emulsifier made from lauryl alcohol (derived from coconut or palm oil) and phosphoric acid. It belongs to the phosphate ester family, known for mildness and good foaming properties.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing them to blend. This helps lift dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin so they can be rinsed away. Its mild nature means it doesn't strip the skin's natural oils as aggressively as some harsher sulfates.
Pros
Mild on skin
Unlike harsher sulfates, this surfactant cleans without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier, making it suitable for daily use and sensitive skin.
Good foam quality
It produces a rich, creamy lather that feels pleasant during cleansing, which can improve the user experience without compromising gentleness.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
As a semi-synthetic ingredient, it may not appeal to those seeking fully natural or 'clean' beauty products, even though it is derived from plant-based alcohols.
Potential for irritation at high levels
While generally mild, very high concentrations (above 10%) can cause slight irritation, especially in leave-on products or for very sensitive individuals.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin who want a gentle cleanser
- Those looking for sulfate-free cleansing options
Use caution if
- Individuals with known phosphate allergies (rare)
- Those who strictly avoid all synthetic ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It is low in irritation and comedogenicity, making it suitable for most skin types. Rare allergic reactions are possible but uncommon.
Research notes
Phosphate ester surfactants like this one have been studied for their mildness and efficacy in cleansing. The CIR panel has concluded they are safe as used. No significant long-term health concerns have been identified in cosmetic use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed phosphate esters and found them safe as used in rinse-off and leave-on products.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Facial washes
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable plant sources (coconut or palm oil). It is biodegradable, but sourcing of palm oil should be from certified sustainable sources to minimize environmental impact.
Good to know
- Often found in 'sulfate-free' cleansers as a gentler alternative to SLS/SLES.
- It is biodegradable and generally considered safe for aquatic environments at typical use levels.
Common questions
What is Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate in beauty products?
Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate is a mild cleansing ingredient that helps water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. It's often used in gentle cleansers and shampoos because it cleans without making skin feel tight or dry. Think of it as a helper that lifts away makeup and grime while being kind to your skin.
What does Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing them to blend. This helps lift dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin so they can be rinsed away. Its mild nature means it doesn't strip the skin's natural oils as aggressively as some harsher sulfates.
Is Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate safe for most people?
Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It is low in irritation and comedogenicity, making it suitable for most skin types. Rare allergic reactions are possible but uncommon.
Who should be careful with Sodium Dilaureth-10 Phosphate?
Individuals with known phosphate allergies (rare) Those who strictly avoid all synthetic ingredients
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.