D
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
This letter is an internal editorial classification of the ingredient, not a clinical evidence rating. It does not certify safety, suitability for your skin or the SPF of a finished product.
surfactant
A harsh anionic surfactant used in cleansers. Creates rich lather but strips the skin barrier aggressively. One of the most studied irritants in dermatology (used as a positive control in patch tests).
Benefits
Effective cleansing, rich lather, low cost
Risks & concerns
Strips skin barrier, causes irritation, dryness, and inflammation. Avoid in leave-on products.
Avoid if
Dry skinSensitive skinNormal skin
Found in (1)
Technical details
- INCI name
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- CAS Number
- 151-21-3
- Category
- surfactant
- Comedogenic rating
- 0/5
- Also known as
- sls, sodium dodecyl sulfate