Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate (ISL) – Multifunctional Cosmetic Emulsifier & Skin Conditioner

INCI NAME: Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate

Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate (ISL) is a high-performance, anionic surfactant derived from lipophilic-modified lactic acid, designed to enhance emulsification, moisturization, and texture in cosmetic formulations. Its unique molecular structure combines a long carbon chain with natural moisturizing factors, making it an ideal choice for cleansing, haircare, and skincare products. ISL delivers a luxurious, smooth skin feel while improving stability and sensory properties in various formulations.

Key Benefits & Features

1. Superior Emulsification & Stability

ISL acts as an effective auxiliary emulsifier, enhancing the stability of oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions. It helps create finer, more uniform textures in creams, lotions, and serums while reducing the greasy residue often associated with mineral oil-based formulations.

2. Enhanced Moisturization & Skin Repair

Contains natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) that help retain skin hydration, reducing tightness and dryness after cleansing.

Improves skin barrier function, making it ideal for **moisturizing creams, lotions, and post-cleansing treatments.

3. Improved Cleansing & Conditioning

In soap-based systems (shower gels, facial cleansers), ISL provides auxiliary thickening, improving viscosity without compromising lather quality.

Delivers a silky-smooth afterfeel, eliminating the stripping effect of harsh surfactants.

4. Hair Care Benefits

Enhances conditioning and repair in shampoos and hair treatments, leaving hair soft, manageable, and moisturized.

Reduces frizz and improves combability, making it ideal for damaged or dry hair formulations.

5. Lightweight, Non-Greasy Texture

Unlike traditional emollients, ISL provides long-lasting hydration without heaviness, making it perfect for lightweight serums, milky lotions, and non-greasy sunscreens.

Recommended Applications & Dosage

Moisturizing & Repair (0.6–2.5%): Ideal for creams, lotions, and hydrating serums.

Emulsification Support (0.3–1.5%): Enhances stability in O/W and W/O emulsions.

Cleansing Products: Improves lather and skin feel in soap-based cleansers and shower gels (0.5–3.0%).

Hair Care: Adds slip and conditioning in shampoos and treatments (1.0–3.0%).

Applications

Skincare: Moisturizers, creams, lotions, sunscreens

Cleansers: Facial washes, shower gels, bar soaps

Haircare: Shampoos, conditioners, hair masks

Makeup: Foundations, BB creams (for improved spreadability)

Packaging & Storage

50kg/rubber bucket

Shelf Life: 24 months when stored in a cool, dry place at room temperature.

Why Choose Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate?

ISL is a versatile, multifunctional ingredient that bridges emulsification, moisturization, and sensory enhancement in cosmetics. Its ability to reduce greasiness, improve texture, and boost hydration makes it a valuable addition to cleansers, moisturizers, and haircare products. Whether formulating a rich cream, a lightweight lotion, or a nourishing shampoo, ISL ensures superior performance with a luxurious, skin-friendly finish.

Ideal for: Hydrating skincare, sulfate-free cleansers, repair-focused haircare, and mineral oil-free formulations. and compatible with a wide range of cosmetic systems.