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Quick answer: Both score equally on our risk model. Ammonium Laureth Sulfate is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US; Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Ammonium Laureth Sulfate | Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Allowed | Allowed |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | low | low |
| Banned in | — | — |
| Restricted in | — | — |
| Category | surfactant | surfactant |
| Where it hides | TRESemmé Moisture Rich Shampoo, Garnier Fructis Fortifying Shampoo, VO5 Herbal Escapes Shampoo | Mustela Gentle Cleansing Gel, Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner, Drunk Elephant Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser |
Ammonium laureth sulfate is an anionic surfactant very similar in structure to SLES but uses an ammonium counterion instead of sodium. It produces abundant foam and provides excellent conditioning to the hair shaft during washing.
Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate is an anionic acyl taurate surfactant derived from coconut oil and taurine (an amino sulfonic acid). It produces a fine, stable foam and is known for its very low irritation potential and excellent skin feel.
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate: Ammonium laureth sulfate shares a similar safety profile to SLES. The CIR has concluded it is safe for cosmetic use. Like SLES, it may contain trace 1,4-dioxane from ethoxylation, addressed by standard manufacturing controls. It is not a carcinogen or endocrine disruptor. Mild skin irritation is possible in sensitive individuals at high concentrations but is not a concern at typical use levels in rinse-off products.
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate: Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate has a very good safety profile with minimal irritation or sensitization potential. No carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reproductive toxicity concerns are documented. It is broadly compatible with skin microbiome health and does not significantly disrupt the skin barrier.
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