murphySodium Polynaphthalenesulfonate
AKA: Dispersant
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from naphthalene, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon found in coal tar and petroleum sources. Synthesized through sulfonation of naphthalene polymers using sulfuric acid or sulfur trioxide.
Naphthalenesulfonic acid, polymer with formaldehyde, sodium salt
CAS #
9084-06-4
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
Functions
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Gel Forming
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Hydrotrope
Stabilizes Emulsion
Cleansing Surfactant
Surfactant Hydrotrope
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed4 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
3
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
Eye Irritant in Testing
1 study / 1 irritating / reactions slight (CIR 304)
Skin Irritant in Testing
1 study / 1 irritating (CIR 304)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.036–0.1%
Rinse-off0.000051–0.19%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2019 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR