Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Also known as: SLES, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, SLES 3, Texapon N70
Mild cleansing agent that removes oil and dirt; gentler than SLS due to ethoxylation.
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Get the appWhat it does
A sulfate-based surfactant that reduces water's surface tension, allowing it to suspend oils and dirt for removal. Ethoxylation (the 'eth' in the name) makes it gentler and less irritating than sodium lauryl sulfate. Commonly used in shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers.
Benefits
- Effective at removing excess sebum and buildup
- Milder than SLS while maintaining cleansing power
- Creates rich, stable lather
- Cost-effective and widely available
Who it suits
- Oily and combination skin
- Hair prone to greasiness
- Those tolerating sulfate cleansers
How to use
Use in cleansers as directed on product labels, typically lathering and rinsing thoroughly. Limit contact time to 1–2 minutes for facial use.
Pairs well with
Glycerin, Panthenol, Aloe vera, Sodium chloride (for viscosity)
Be careful pairing with
Cationic conditioning agents (can reduce efficacy), None notable for safety
Safety & cautions
Can strip natural oils if overused or left on skin too long; may cause irritation or dryness in sensitive individuals. Concentration and contact time significantly affect tolerance.
Educational information, not medical advice. Concentration and formulation change how an ingredient behaves.