SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate)
SyntheticSafety Level
Safely
Max. concentration
Carcinogenicity
Allergy Factor
Category
Surfactant, Emulsifiers, Foaming agent, Sulfates/Detergents
Functions
Cleaning
Description
Sodium lauryl sulfate is an anionic surfactant commonly used in cosmetics. When used correctly, sodium lauryl sulfate can provide certain properties that improve the condition of the skin. In cosmetics, sodium lauryl sulfate is most often used as an emulsifier or surfactant. As an emulsifier, sodium lauryl sulfate helps to stabilize and thicken solutions with components of different solubility. This allows the products to have a more uniform texture for easy and smooth application. In addition, the effect of sodium lauryl sulfate on surface tension is applied not only to the composition of products but also to the composition of the skin. It has a great ability to change the surface tension of the stratum corneum. Therefore, topical application of sodium lauryl sulfate solutions can make the skin more permeable, allowing for better absorption of skin-enhancing molecules with ideal polarity and size. Additional uses of sodium lauryl sulfate include functioning as an effective cleaning agent.