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Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate

What Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate is & what it does

Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate is a synthetic anionic surfactant derived from taurine and stearic acid. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it works as a mild cleansing and emulsifying agent, helping to lift away oils and keep water and oil phases blended. Taurate-based surfactants are generally chosen for being gentler than harsher sulfate cleansers.

What does Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate do in skincare?

It is a mild surfactant that works as a cleansing and emulsifying agent. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it helps lift away oils and keeps water and oil phases blended together. Taurate-based surfactants are generally chosen for being gentler than harsher sulfate cleansers.

Is Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate safe?

It is widely used as a mild surfactant in cosmetic products and is generally regarded as gentle compared with stronger sulfate cleansers. As with any cleansing agent, overall effect depends on concentration and the full formula. People with very reactive skin can patch test to check tolerance.

Is Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate natural or synthetic?

Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate is a synthetic surfactant, though it is made using building blocks such as taurine and stearic acid that can come from natural sources. The final ingredient is produced through chemical processing. Its consistency is part of why it is used in gentle cleansing formulas.

Sunscreens with Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate

We rate 21 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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