Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)

Category: Surfactant

Brief Description: A surfactant derived from coconut or palm oils, similar to SLS but uses ammonium instead of sodium as the counterion.

Benefits: Offers strong cleaning and foaming capabilities.

Skin Type Suitability/Concerns: Can be irritating, particularly to sensitive skin and eyes.

Target Audience: Used in many personal care products; those with sensitive skin may seek alternatives.

Chemical Composition: ALS is a linear chain alkyl sulfate salt, using ammonium instead of sodium as the counterion.

Physical Aspect: Usually found as a clear to yellowish liquid.

Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients.

Concentration: Varies depending on the product; higher concentrations can cause skin irritation.

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions: Can cause skin and eye irritation.

Regulatory Status: Generally permitted for use in cosmetics, with concentration limits in some regions.

Sustainability/Ethical Considerations: Similar to SLS, sustainability concerns mainly arise from raw material sourcing.