Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate

Sodium lauroyl lactylate is an emulsifier, which means it helps oil and water mix together in a formula. Without it, your moisturizer or cleanser would separate into layers. It's made from lauric acid (a fatty acid) and lactic acid, so it has a natural origin, though the ingredient itself is processed. It's mild enough for most skin types and shows up in everything from cleansers to creams. If you have very sensitive skin, it's worth patch testing first, but it's generally well tolerated.