Sodium isethionate

Sodium isethionate (CAS 1562-00-1) is a mild sulfonate salt used across personal care, pharmaceutical, and specialty chemical applications. As a key intermediate and functional ingredient, it enables the synthesis of acyl isethionate surfactants.

These surfactants form the basis of some of the mildest cleansing systems in commercial formulation. In personal care manufacturing, it serves as the direct precursor to sodium cocoyl isethionate and related acyl isethionates.

These are the active cleansing agents in syndet bars, baby washes, and sensitive-skin products. Pharmaceutical formulators use it as a buffering and stabilizing component in topical preparations where skin compatibility is required.

Low irritation potential drives ingredient selection in these medical applications. In cosmetic emulsions and liquid cleansers, it contributes to pH regulation and helps maintain formulation stability across a range of electrolyte conditions.

Some industrial applications also leverage its hydroxyethylsulfonate structure for surface-active and dispersing functions in specialty chemical processes. This versatility makes it a staple in modern chemical manufacturing.

The product is supplied as a white crystalline powder or as an aqueous solution, with concentration and purity varying by application. Technical and cosmetic-grade material is the most common commercial form available.

High-purity grades are available for pharmaceutical use, often meeting stringent internal specifications. Buyers should confirm moisture content and active assay when specifying for acyl isethionate synthesis or regulated formulations.