Skip to content
surfactant

Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate

Watch if sensitive·Moderate evidence

A primary cleansing surfactant similar in strength to sodium laureth sulfate, used in many "sulfate-lite" shampoos even though it is itself a sulfonate detergent. CIR concluded it is safe in rinse-off products; it can be drying or irritating for already-sensitized scalps at higher use levels, same as most anionic surfactants.

Worth knowing

  • Can irritate, especially left on

Questions

Is sodium olefin sulfonate the same as SLS?
Sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate and sodium lauryl sulfate are different chemical compounds, but they are similar in cleansing strength. Both are anionic surfactants used in shampoos; the key difference is chemical structure, not safety profile.
Is sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate bad for sensitive scalps?
Safety assessments have found it acceptable in rinse-off products; however, it can be drying or irritating for already-sensitized scalps at higher use levels, similar to most anionic surfactants. People with scalp sensitivity may prefer gentler surfactants like alkyl glucosides.
Is sodium olefin sulfonate a sulfate?
Sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate is a sulfonate, not a sulfate; these are different chemical families, though both are anionic surfactants with similar cleansing power.

Products with Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.