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Ingredient Information

Sodium Laureth Sulfate

Sodium-Laureth-Sulfate

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) is a surfactant commonly used in personal care products. It is an ethoxylated compound derived from Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) through a process called ethoxylation. SLES is known for its cleansing and foaming properties, making it a popular ingredient in various cosmetic and personal care formulations.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) in personal care products:

  • Surfactant and Foaming Agent: Sodium Laureth Sulfate acts as a surfactant, reducing the surface tension of liquids and facilitating the mixing of oil and water-based ingredients. It creates foam and lather, making it a common choice for personal care products like shampoos, body washes, and cleansers that rely on foaming properties.
  • Mildness and Gentleness: Compared to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) is often considered milder and gentler on the skin. The ethoxylation process reduces its harshness and potential to cause irritation, making it more suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or those seeking a gentler cleansing experience.
  • Cleansing Power: Sodium Laureth Sulfate is highly effective in cleansing and removing dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin and hair. It helps to break down oils and sebum on the skin’s surface and rinse away debris, leaving the skin and hair feeling clean.
  • Emulsification and Stability: Sodium Laureth Sulfate helps to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions by dispersing oil droplets in water-based formulations. It improves the stability and consistency of products like creams, lotions, and moisturizers, preventing ingredient separation.
  • Compatibility: Sodium Laureth Sulfate is compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients and formulations. It can be easily incorporated into various personal care products without causing adverse reactions or compromising the overall performance of the formulations.
  • Precautions and Sensitivities: While Sodium Laureth Sulfate is generally considered milder than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, it may still cause skin irritation or sensitivity in some individuals. As with any surfactant, it is important to consider individual sensitivities and choose products accordingly.
  • Regulatory Approval: The use of Sodium Laureth Sulfate in personal care products is regulated by various authorities to ensure its safety and appropriate levels of use. Regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Union’s Cosmetics Regulation, have established guidelines and limits for its use in personal care applications.

It is worth noting that while Sodium Laureth Sulfate is often considered milder than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, individual sensitivities may still vary. Some individuals with extremely sensitive skin or specific allergies may prefer products that are SLES-free or seek alternative surfactants that are even gentler, such as Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate or Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate.

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