Mixed isopropanolamines lauryl sulfate refers to a mixture of different isopropanolamine compounds ("isopropanolamines" - see below) MIPA; "lauryl sulfate" means the ester of lauryl alcohol with sulfuric acid) which are used in cosmetic formulations. The mixture of substances acts as emulsifier (changes the interfacial tension of liquids like water and oil so that they can be mixed together) and surfactant (washing-active substance).