Sodium lauroyl lactylate derived from milk and coconut for hydrating skincare.

Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate

We believe in radical transparency. That means we don't hide the "science names" on our ingredient labels.

If you look at the back of our Glow Cleanse, you will see Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate (SLL). It sounds like a harsh industrial chemical.

But in reality? It is one of the most gentle, natural ingredients in modern skincare. It is chemically classified as a "Milk Salt."

Here is the science of why we use it, and why your skin loves it.

The Science: Where Does It Come From?

SLL isn't made in a toxic factory. It is created by combining two natural sources:

Lauric Acid: Fatty acids derived from Coconut Oil.

Lactic Acid: A natural acid derived from Milk (or fermented sugars).

When you combine them, you get a "lactylate." It takes the moisturizing properties of the coconut and the softening properties of the milk and combines them into a single molecule.

 

Diagram showing sodium lauroyl lactylate is made from coconut and lactic acid.

 

The "Delivery Driver" Effect

We use SLL because it is a Penetration Enhancer.

Think of your skin barrier as a brick wall. It is designed to keep things out. Sometimes, it keeps the good ingredients (like botanical extracts) out, too.

Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate acts like a key. It temporarily relaxes the surface tension of the skin cells, allowing the active ingredients in the cleanser (like Sweet Almond Oil and Aloe) to slip deeper into the pores where they can actually work.

It ensures you aren't just washing the surface; you are treating the skin below.

The "24-Hour" Moisturizer

Unlike sulfates that strip oils away, SLL actually leaves moisture behind. Because it is derived from Lactic Acid (a natural humectant), it binds water to the skin even after you rinse the cleanser off.

The Result: You know that "soft, velvety" feeling you get after using the Glow Cleanse? That is the SLL leaving a micro-layer of hydration on your barrier.

 

Safe enough for Food, Strong enough for Skin

SLL is so safe that it is actually approved for use in food (it’s often used to keep bread soft!).

Experience the "Milk Salt" difference with the Joyful Glow System. We are 60-Day Love Your Glow Guarantee. If your skin doesn't feel softer, we will refund you in full.

Read Next Stop Scrubbing Your Barrier: Why Your Face Wash Should Feel Like a Lotion

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