Sodium Isethionate (CAS 1562-00-1) is a mild, anionic surfactant widely used in personal care and cleansing formulations. Also known as isethionic acid sodium salt or sodium 2-hydroxyethyl sulfonate, it features excellent water solubility, high compatibility with other surfactants, and a gentle, skin-friendly profile.
This compound is often used as a raw material in the production of mild surfactants such as Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI), which are popular in sulfate-free shampoos, facial cleansers, and body washes.
Specification
Items
Specification
Appearance
A colorless lucidly liquid
Assay(%)
54.00 Min
Water(%)
40.0 Min
Sulphate(%)
0.30 Max
pH(25℃)
8.00-10.50
Application
1. Personal Care and Cleansing Products
Sodium isethionate is a key ingredient in syndet (synthetic detergent) bars, facial cleansers, and shampoos. It provides mild yet effective cleansing and helps maintain skin moisture without irritation. When reacted with fatty acids, it forms Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) — a gentle surfactant highly favored in sulfate-free formulations.
2. Hair and Skin Care Formulations
Thanks to its excellent skin compatibility and low irritation potential, Isethionic acid sodium salt is used in:
Moisturizing body washes
Baby shampoos and soaps
Conditioning shampoos and facial foams
It leaves skin feeling soft and smooth after washing.
3. Industrial and Synthetic Applications
Sodium 2-hydroxyethyl sulfonate can serve as a hydrophilic intermediate in the synthesis of other surfactants, detergents, and specialty chemicals. It helps improve the water solubility and mildness of the final formulations.
Advantages of Sodium Isethionate
Mild and non-irritating to skin and eyes.
Biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Excellent compatibility with anionic, cationic, and nonionic surfactants.
Stable under a wide pH range.
Enhances foam quality and creaminess in formulations.