| What is it? | Sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate is a mild solid anionic surfactant made from coconut oil. |
| INCI | Sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate |
| Appearance | Fine white powder |
| Usage rate | The CIR Expert Panel has determined sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate to be safe for use in rinse-off products (no upper limit mentioned) and safe at up to 2% in leave-on products. |
| Texture | Dry, fine powder |
| Scent | Detergent-y/soap-y |
| Active Surfactant Matter | 88% |
| pH | 8–10 (5% in water) |
| Charge | Anionic |
| Solubility | Water |
| Why do we use it in formulations? | Sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate can function as a primary or complimentary cleansing surfactant in all kinds of formulations. |
| Do you need it? | No; I would chose Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) and Sodium Coco Sulfate (SCS) first. Sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate is a good alternative to SCS if you are looking for a sulfate-free alternative. |
| Strengths | Biodegradable anionic surfactant with excellent flash foam that performs well over a wide pH range. |
| Weaknesses | It seems to be harder to find than many other surfactants. |
| Alternatives & Substitutions | You’ll need a solid anionic surfactant; SLSa would be my first choice. |
| How to Work with It | Wear a dust mask! Inhaling solid surfactants is incredibly unpleasant.
Include in the water or surfactant phase of products. Can be hot or cold processed, as needed. |
| Storage & Shelf Life | Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate should last two to three years. |
| Tips, Tricks, and Quirks | Sodium (C14-16) olefin sulfonate is especially floaty—make sure you wear your dust mask! It is fine enough that it can be incorporated into solid detergent products (like shampoo bars) without heating. |
| Recommended starter amount | 250g (0.5lb) |
| Where to Buy it | Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier. |
Want to compare different surfactants?
Check out my super useful surfactants table!
