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The facts: Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. 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 and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Tom's of Maine Natural Toothpaste, Aveeno Positively Clean Foaming Face Wash, Puracy Natural Body Wash |
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 Sarcosinate with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Tom's of Maine Natural Toothpaste, Aveeno Positively Clean Foaming Face Wash, Puracy Natural Body Wash. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate.
Sodium cocoyl glutamate as another amino acid-based surfactant; CAPB for comparable mildness. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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Audited products that don't contain Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate.
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