Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate (Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate)

Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate is an anionic surfactant and emulsifying aid commonly used in cosmetic formulations as an emulsifier/co-emulsifier and stabilizer for oil-in-water systems. It helps reduce interfacial tension, supports fine droplet formation, and contributes to building viscosity and structure, improving the robustness and long-term stability of creams and lotions—particularly when paired with fatty alcohols such as cetearyl alcohol. In addition to emulsion stabilization, it can enhance slip and contribute to a smooth, creamy texture, and is sometimes used in rinse-off products to support cleansing and foam when included in surfactant blends. Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate is commonly found in moisturizers, body creams, hair conditioners, and styling emulsions, as well as selected cleansers, where reliable emulsification and a structured sensorial profile are desired. Use level and performance are formulation-dependent and typically optimized with the overall emulsifier system, oil load, and pH to achieve the target viscosity, stability, and skin feel.