sodium laureth sulfate
- Rating:
- Categories: Cleansing Agents
Sodium Laureth Sulfate at a Glance
- Cleansing agent that produces a foaming/lathering effect
- Commonly found in facial cleansers, body washes, and shampoos
- Can be derived from coconut or produced synthetically
- Recognised as gentle and safe by numerous industry experts/organisations
- Appears as a slightly hazy or clear solution in its raw state
Sodium Laureth Sulfate Description
Sodium laureth sulfate (also 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/organisations. 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.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate References
CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed April 2021, ePublication
International Journal of Toxicology, July 2019, pages 151S-161S
American Chemical Society, October 2017, ePublication
Contact Dermatitis, January 2003, issue 1, pages 26-32
Food and Chemical Toxicology, March 2001, pages 279-286
See surfactant
SHOP FOR PRODUCTS WITH SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE
MOISTURE BOOST One Step Face Cleanser | All Over Hair & Body Shampoo | CALM Redness Relief Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin | CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser |
About the Experts
Paula Begoun is the best-selling author of 20 books about skincare and makeup. She is known worldwide as The Cosmetics Cop and creator of Paula’s Choice Skincare. Paula’s expertise has led to hundreds of appearances on national and international radio, print, and television including:
The Paula's Choice Research Team is dedicated to busting beauty myths and providing expert advice that solves your skincare frustrations so you can have the best skin of your life!