Sodium Alpha Olefin Sulfonate (AOS) is an anionic surfactant used in cleansers, shampoos, and body washes to provide foaming, emulsifying, and cleansing action. It is valued for good lather and detergency, performing well even in hard water.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin dryness or tightness | Common | Strong detergency can strip natural lipids with frequent use. |
| Mild skin or eye irritation | Uncommon | More likely at higher concentrations or with prolonged contact. |
| Contact dermatitis | Rare | Irritant rather than typically allergic; sensitive skin more susceptible. |
| Allergic sensitization | Very rare | Genuine allergic reactions to AOS are infrequently reported. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.