Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant used for cleansing, but can cause skin and eye irritation, particularly in sensitive individuals.

About Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a synthetic anionic surfactant widely utilized in personal care and cleaning products due to its potent cleansing and foaming capabilities. It is produced by sulfating lauryl alcohol and neutralizing the resultant product with a sodium base. While effective at removing oils and debris, SLS can disrupt the skin's natural barrier, potentially leading to irritation, dryness, and allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals or with prolonged exposure. Formulations containing SLS often incorporate mitigating ingredients to lessen these adverse effects. SLS is not intended for ingestion and its inclusion in consumable supplements would be inappropriate.

Key Information

Category
Minerals
Use Type
Outside Body
Average Rating
2.0 /5

Compare All Forms

Compare different forms of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate by bioavailability, conversion rates, and active ingredient content:

Form Tier Steps Elemental Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
(mg) 		Bioavailability Action
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant used for cleansi...

 Tier 3 3 20.0%

(400mg = 80mg)

Basic/low bioavailability form. Cheap raw material with poor absorption or high GI distress. Often poorly utilized by the body, requires 3+ conversion steps. View →

Scientific Evidence

Several studies demonstrate the irritant potential of SLS, including:
* Willis CM, Shaw S, de Lacharrière O, Baverel M, Reiche L. Sensitive skin: an overview. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2001;15(6):523-32.
* Basketter DA, Willis CM, Clark C, Evans P, Griffiths HA, McFadden J, Kimber I. Human maximization studies with sodium lauryl sulfate. Contact Dermatitis. 2004;50(4):224-8.
* Löffler H, Kampf G. How frequent is hand disinfection necessary? Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2008;21(6):299-309.