Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate Market Summary

The global sodium lauroyl isethionate (SLI) market size was estimated at USD 107.3 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 138.1 million by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% from 2025 to 2030. The market’s growth is primarily attributed to the increasing consumer shift toward gentle, sulfate-free cleansing formulations in the personal care industry. This trend reflects rising awareness about the potential adverse effects of harsh sulfates, prompting both consumers and manufacturers to favor milder alternatives like SLI.

Sodium lauroyl isethionate is a mild, anionic surfactant known for its gentle cleansing ability, skin compatibility, and excellent foaming performance. It is widely utilized in personal care products such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and bar soaps. As concerns over skin irritation and dryness caused by traditional sulfates grow, product formulators are increasingly incorporating SLI into their product lines, especially within the premium and dermatologically tested segments. This shift supports SLI’s widespread adoption across both luxury and mass-market skincare and haircare products.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• In 2024, the chips/flakes product form accounted for the largest revenue share of 47.6%, and this dominance is expected to continue over the forecast period. The chips/flakes format is favored for its ease of handling, high solubility, and compatibility with solid and bar-form personal care products. Its versatility in product formulations, along with increasing demand for zero-waste solid bars and waterless beauty formats, contributes to the segment’s growth.
• Among applications, the skin care segment led the market with a revenue share of 56.8% in 2024. This leadership position is due to SLI’s mild cleansing nature, making it suitable for daily facial care products, baby care, and sensitive-skin formulations. The ability of SLI to clean effectively without stripping the skin’s natural oils further enhances its use in gentle facial cleansers and moisturizing body washes.
• The hair care segment also plays a vital role in driving the market. With the growing popularity of sulfate-free shampoos and co-wash conditioners, SLI has become a key ingredient in haircare formulations. It provides a creamy, rich lather and helps maintain scalp health, while also preserving hair color and moisture—features that align with the needs of modern consumers seeking nourishing, safe, and effective hair cleansing options.
• Regionally, the Asia Pacific market is projected to dominate with a revenue share of 41.9% in 2024. This growth is fueled by increasing awareness and consumer preference for mild, sulfate-free personal care solutions in countries such as China, India, South Korea, and Japan. The expanding middle class, growing urban populations, and increasing influence of K-beauty and J-beauty trends also contribute to the regional market’s strength.
• In North America, the sodium lauroyl isethionate market is witnessing steady expansion, supported by strong consumer demand for clean-label, dermatologist-tested, and sulfate-free products. The U.S. and Canada, in particular, have seen growing adoption of SLI in skincare, baby care, and high-end haircare products due to its non-irritating, skin-safe properties.
• Within the U.S. market, demand is especially high for products recommended by dermatologists and formulated for sensitive or reactive skin. The trend toward “free-from” labeling, including sulfate-free and paraben-free, continues to shape consumer choices, further reinforcing the preference for mild surfactants like SLI.
• In the Middle East and Africa, the sodium lauroyl isethionate market is gaining traction. The region’s demand is driven by the need for personal care products that suit dry and sensitive skin types, which are common due to the arid climate. Increased urbanization, growing awareness of skincare health, and the wider availability of international and regional beauty brands are supporting market development in these regions.

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Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 107.3 Million
• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 138.1 Million
• CAGR (2025-2030): 4.4%
• Asia Pacific: Largest market in 2024

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Some key players operating in the market include BASF SE and Henan Surface Chemical Industry.

• BASF SE is a globally recognized German chemical company that operates as the largest chemical producer in the world. The company operates through six main business segments, namely, industrial solutions, chemicals, materials, surface technologies, agricultural solutions, and nutrition and care. Its diverse portfolio encompasses a wide array of chemical products such as performance products, plastics, functional solutions, and others. One of the company’s main areas of expertise is the production of carotenoids and beta-carotene and its related products, which are utilized in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and animal feed industries.

Key Players

• Jili Aegis Chemical
• Innospec Performance Chemicals
• Parchem Fine & Specialty Chemicals
• KIYU New Material
• Galaxy Surfactants
• JEEN International Corporation
• McKinely Resources
• BASF SE
• Taiwan NJC Corporation
• Henan Surface Chemical Industry

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the global sodium lauroyl isethionate market is poised for consistent growth, driven by the escalating demand for mild, sulfate-free personal care products. As consumers become increasingly conscious of skin sensitivity and product safety, SLI is emerging as a preferred ingredient in both skincare and haircare formulations. Its gentle yet effective cleansing properties, along with compatibility for a variety of formats, make it highly adaptable across global markets. Regional trends, especially in Asia Pacific and North America, continue to reinforce its demand. The market is expected to expand further as clean beauty, sustainability, and dermatological safety remain key industry priorities.