Sodium Laureth Sulfate

Sulfate Surfactant
Benefits
Cleansing

What is Sodium Laureth Sulfate?

Sodium Laureth Sulfate, often abbreviated as SLES, is an anionic surfactant synthesized by ethoxylating lauryl alcohol—a fatty alcohol derived from coconut or palm kernel oil—with ethylene oxide, followed by sulfation and neutralization with sodium hydroxide. This process yields a compound with a hydrophilic head and hydrophobic tail, typically containing 1 to 3 moles of ethylene oxide. Primarily found in rinse-off personal care products such as shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers, it functions by drastically reducing the surface tension of water. This action enables the formation of micelles that encapsulate oils, dirt, and impurities, allowing them to be rinsed away easily. Additionally, it promotes emulsification of immiscible phases and generates stable foam, enhancing product texture and user experience in cleansing formulations.

Comedogenic Rating 3/5 Higher risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Delivers thorough cleansing by lifting away dirt, oil, and residues from skin and hair.

Produces abundant foam for an enjoyable washing sensation and even product distribution.

Supports emulsion stability in cleansers, ensuring consistent performance.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users with oily skin or scalp seeking strong degreasing action.
Those with dry skin, as it may strip natural moisture.
Individuals preferring rich-lathering shampoos and body washes.
People with sensitive skin prone to barrier disruption.
People using frequent cleansing routines for active lifestyles.
Individuals experiencing irritation from foaming cleansers.

Safety Notes

  • Cosmetic ingredient review panels consider it safe for use in rinse-off products at typical levels.
  • Potential for mild irritation exists, particularly in sensitive areas like eyes; rinse thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sodium Laureth Sulfate

What does Sodium Laureth Sulfate do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to lower surface tension, enabling effective dirt removal, foaming, and emulsification in cleansers.

Is it suitable for daily use?

Common in daily rinse-off products; suitable for most but may dry out sensitive or dry skin types.

Does it clog pores?

Rated moderately comedogenic, so caution advised for acne-prone skin in leave-on formulas.