Sodium Ethylhexyl Sulfate
AKA “Tergemist, Tergimist, Etasulfato sodico, Pentrone ON, Sulfirol 8, Tergitol 08, Tergitol anionic 08, Propaste 6708
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Sodium ethylhexyl sulfate
AKA: Tergemist, Tergimist, Etasulfato sodico, Pentrone ON, Sulfirol 8, Tergitol 08, Tergitol anionic 08, Propaste 6708
Synthetic · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Synthetic
Clean
A gentle cleanser that removes makeup and impurities while helping oil and water blend together in your formula for a smooth, even texture.
Solubility greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)
Formula
C8H18NaO4S
Mol. Weight
233.28
CAS #
126-92-1
Form
Powder
State
Sodium(2-ethylhexyl)alcohol sulfate is a clear, colorless, slightly viscous liquid. (NTP, 1992)
See origin →
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Hydrotrope
Surfactant Cleansing
Surfactant Emulsifying
Surfactant Hydrotrope
Anti-Inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Fights Acne
Lifts away dirt and oil
Mixes oil and water
Improves ingredient solubility
Traditional Use
Created in the mid-20th century as a synthetic surfactant and cleansing agent. Designed to be milder than earlier sulfates while maintaining effective cleansing properties in personal care formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe w/Qualifications
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR