Name
Disodium Laneth-5 Sulfosuccinate
Description
Disodium laneth-5 sulfosuccinate is a surfactant (detergent) used in shampoos for cleansing and foam boosting. It is created by reacting maleic anhydride with an ethoxylated fatty alcohol. The resulting malic ester is then sulfonated. The monoester is then reacted with sodium bisulfite to form the sulfosuccinate.
Benefits
Cleansing and lathering agent.
Considerations
• Contamination Concerns
Disodium laneth-5 sulfosuccinate is an ethoxylated chemical, meaning it’s been created with ethylene oxide, traces of which, along with its carcinogenic byproduct, 1,4-dioxane, can remain in the product. It can also contain traces of sodium sulfite, formaldehyde, and heavy metals. • Eye Irritation
May be a strong eye irritant at certain concentrations.
• Inhalation Hazard
May be an inhalation hazard when used in aerosolized products such as hairspray or perfume.
Synonyms
Butanedioic acid, sulfo-, laneth-5 ester, disodium salt
Research Sources
https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/Sulfos032012FR_0.pdf https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/substance/135272376
Summary
Ethoxylated chemical can be contaminated with carcinogenic ethylene oxide and/or 1,4-dioxane and a suspected endocrine disruptor.