Sulfate Vs. Sulfoacetate

Clients using ALBA shampoo have noticed that there is Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate in it. So the question has come up: is ALBA or any other shampoos with this ingredient ok to use?

There is a difference between Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. The stuff in the natural shampoo, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, is derived from coconut and palm oils. It is also a large molecule ingredient, meaning chemically its considered gentle, non-irritating, and the molecule will not penetrate the skin.

In contrast, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is an irritating small molecule ingredient that does penetrate the skin, thus you get the negative result listed in my cheap shampoo memo.

So when it ends in 'sulfate' its BAD and when it ends in 'sulfoacetate' its GOOD. YAH! You can keep using your ALBA shampoo! Happy Washing! ~Liza