murphySodium C16-18 Olefin Sulfonate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Surfactant, Anionic Surfactant, Alpha Olefin Sulfonate
Synthetic
Cleanser
Not Clean
OriginDerived from linear alpha olefins (LAO), typically produced from petroleum-derived hydrocarbons or plant-based olefins. Synthesized through sulfonation of C16-18 olefins using sulfur trioxide or oleum, then neutralized with sodium hydroxide.
Sulfonic acids, C16-18-alkane hydroxy and C16-18-alkene, sodium salts
CAS #
91722-28-0
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Foaming
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Removes Impurities
Creates Lather
Cleansing Surfactant
Removes dirt and impurities
Creates cleansing foam
Lifts away dirt and oil
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Reviewed by CIR
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
3 studies / 2 irritating / 1 mixed / reactions slight (CIR 45)
Sensitizer in Testing
2 studies / 2 sensitizing (CIR 45)
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR