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Answer: Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US cosmetics and personal-care products. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: Tom's of Maine Natural Toothpaste, Aveeno Positively Clean Foaming Face Wash, Puracy Natural Body Wash.
TL;DR: Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (surfactant).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
INCI name SODIUM LAUROYL SARCOSINATE. Also called Sarcosinate. CAS 137-16-6.
Other names: Sarcosinate, Sarkosyl
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Tom's of Maine Natural Toothpaste, Aveeno Positively Clean Foaming Face Wash, Puracy Natural Body Wash |
| CAS number | 137-16-6 |
Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate is an anionic surfactant derived from sarcosine (an amino acid derivative) and lauric acid from coconut oil. It is an acyl amino acid surfactant known for mildness and a smooth, silky after-feel.
Used in premium cleansers, shampoos, and toothpastes for its gentle cleansing, anti-caries properties (inhibits Streptococcus mutans in oral care), and ability to impart a smooth skin feel.
Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate is considered safe for cosmetic use by the CIR. It is non-irritating at typical use concentrations and has no known carcinogenic, mutagenic, or endocrine-disrupting properties. It can potentially form N-nitrosamines if formulated with nitrosating agents; good manufacturing practice prevents this. It is one of the preferred alternatives to SLS in dental formulations.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinatewith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Sodium cocoyl glutamate as another amino acid-based surfactant; CAPB for comparable mildness.
Yes. It is one of the gentler anionic surfactants and is safe for daily use in toothpastes and face washes.
Sarcosine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative. While some research has investigated sarcosine's relationship to prostate cancer metabolism, this has no bearing on the topical or oral use of sodium lauroyl sarcosinate at cosmetic concentrations.
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