Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Also known as: SLES
Cleansing agent that produces a foaming/lathering effect | Commonly found in facial cleansers, body washes, and shampoos
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Laureth Sulfate?
Sodium laureth sulfate (commonly referred to by its acronym, SLES) is a commonly used cleansing agent that can be derived from coconut or produced synthetically, although even the coconut-derived source is processed to the point where it is no longer considered natural. It is known for producing a foaming/lathering effect and is considered gentle in normal cosmetic use (typically in face/body cleansers and shampoos).
In the late 1990s an e-mail hoax surfaced claiming that sodium laureth sulfate was a dangerous ingredient. This allegation has been dispelled by numerous industry experts/organizations. For decades, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review has officially deemed sodium laureth sulfate as safe, with the latest reported use studied in up to a 50% concentration.
Despite the name similarity, sodium laureth sulfate is NOT the same as sodium lauryl sulfate, which can indeed be irritating to skin. Sodium laureth sulfate is a milder on skin due its different chemical structure.
As a raw material, sodium laureth sulfate appears as a slightly hazy or clear solution.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed April 2021, ePublication [https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/sodium-laureth-sulfate/]
-
International Journal of Toxicology, July 2019, pages 151S-161S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1091581810373151]
-
American Chemical Society, October 2017, ePublication [https://www.acs.org/molecule-of-the-week/archive/s/sodium-laureth-sulfate.html]
-
Contact Dermatitis, January 2003, issue 1, pages 26-32 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1034/j.1600-0536.2003.480105.x]
-
Food and Chemical Toxicology, March 2001, pages 279-286 [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278691500001320]
Related Ingredients
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Modified cellulose polymer | Film-forming and binding agent
Panthenol
The healing hydrator
Reducing Agent
A reducint agent, also known as a reductant, is a versatile
Sodium Caproyl Methyltaurate
Mild surfactant and cleansing agent | Not one of the more commonly used surfactants
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.