Lauryl Hydroxysultaine is a zwitterionic (amphoteric) surfactant derived from coconut or synthetic lauryl sources, used as a secondary cleansing and foam-boosting agent in shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. It is valued for its mildness and ability to reduce the irritancy of stronger anionic surfactants.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Skin irritation | Uncommon | Generally considered mild, but can cause irritation at higher concentrations or with prolonged contact. |
Eye irritation | Uncommon | May sting or irritate eyes in rinse-off products if direct contact occurs. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization is uncommon; occasional reactions may relate to manufacturing impurities. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.