murphySodium Stearoyl Methyl Isethionate
AKA: SSMI, Mild Cleanser
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Not Clean
OriginDerived from coconut, palm kernel, or soybean oils as the primary fatty acid source. Synthesized through esterification and sulfonation of stearic acid methyl esters to form the sulfonate compound.
Sodium Stearoyl Methyl Isethionate is a cosmetic ingredient used as cleansing, surfactant - cleansing, surfactant - foam boosting. Assessed as safe by the CIR.
CAS #
-
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.
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 Cleansing
Surfactant Foam Boosting
Anti-Inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Fights Acne
Removes dirt and impurities
Enhances lather
Lifts away dirt and oil
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