Ingredient glossary
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
INCI: Sodium Laureth Sulfate · Also: SLES
Solid and proven
Does Sodium Laureth Sulfate clash with what you already use? Check it →A genuinely useful ingredient with real evidence behind it, not hype.
What it does
- cleansing
- oil removal
moderate evidenceComparative irritancy work shows sodium laureth sulfate causes less TEWL increase than sodium lauryl sulfate but remains a significant irritant relative to milder amphoteric and nonionic surfactants.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- oily
- normal
Approach with care
- very sensitive
- compromised barrier
- rosacea
- Clogs poresModerate
- Irritation riskModerate
Pregnancy: Check with your doctor before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Plays well with
- amphoteric surfactants
- nonionic surfactants
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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.