| What is it? |
Sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate is a mild solid anionic surfactant made from coconut oil. |
| INCI |
Sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate |
| Appearance |
Fine white powder |
| Usage rate |
The CIR Expert Panel has determined sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate to be safe for use in rinse-off products (no upper limit mentioned) and safe at up to 2% in leave-on products. |
| Texture |
Dry, fine powder |
| Scent |
Detergent-y/soap-y |
| Active Surfactant Matter |
88% |
| pH |
8–10 (5% in water) |
| Charge |
Anionic |
| Solubility |
Water |
| Why do we use it in formulations? |
Sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate can function as a primary or complimentary cleansing surfactant in all kinds of formulations. |
| Do you need it? |
No; I would chose Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) and Sodium Coco Sulfate (SCS) first. Sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate is a good alternative to SCS if you are looking for a sulfate-free alternative. |
| Strengths |
Biodegradable anionic surfactant with excellent flash foam that performs well over a wide pH range. |
| Weaknesses |
It seems to be harder to find than many other surfactants. |
| Alternatives & Substitutions |
You’ll need a solid anionic surfactant; SLSa would be my first choice. |
| How to Work with It |
Wear a dust mask! Inhaling solid surfactants is incredibly unpleasant. Include in the water or surfactant phase of products. Can be hot or cold processed, as needed. |
| Storage & Shelf Life |
Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate should last two to three years. |
| Tips, Tricks, and Quirks |
Sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate is especially floaty—make sure you wear your dust mask! It is fine enough that it can be incorporated into solid detergent products (like shampoo bars) without heating. |
| Recommended starter amount |
250g (0.5lb) |
| Where to Buy it |
Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier. |
Want to compare different surfactants?
Check out my super useful surfactants table!