Sodium Oleyl Methyl Isethionate

AKA: SOMI, Oleic Acid Surfactant
Synthetic
Cleanser
Not Clean
9-Octadecenoic Acid (9Z)-, Methyl-2-Sulfoester, Sodium Salt
CAS #
880353-25-3
Form
Liquid
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Foam Boosting
Surfactant Foam Boosting
Anti-Inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Fights Acne
Removes dirt and impurities
Enhances lather
Traditional Use
Developed in the late 20th century as a mild synthetic surfactant. Created to provide gentle cleansing suitable for sensitive skin and personal care formulations.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Potential Sensitizer
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing
🛡️Safety-assessed0 reviews
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR