SLES, not to be confused with SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), is a synthetic soap-like ingredient used in cleansing products. It foams well and removes oil and dirt. SLES may cause skin dryness and irritation, although it is considered less irritating than SLS.
Functions
Cleansing,
Cleansing
Cleansing ingredients, also known as surfactants, clear dirt and buildup from the skin.
Cleansing,
Cleansing
Cleansing ingredients, also known as surfactants, clear dirt and buildup from the skin.
Emulsifying,
Emulsifying
Emulsifying – helps to mix water and oil together.
Emulsifying,
Emulsifying
Emulsifying – helps to mix water and oil together.
Foaming
Foaming
Foaming – creates foam of varying densities.
Foaming
Foaming
Foaming – creates foam of varying densities.
Origin
Botanical,
Botanical
Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials.
Botanical,
Botanical
Ingredients derived from plants, mosses, and lichens: extracts, oils, powders, juices and other types of processed plant materials.
Synthetic
Synthetic
All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.
Synthetic
Synthetic
All kinds of ingredients formulated or produced by a chemical process, or those that have a chemical modification in their structure.
Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES, not to be confused with sodium lauryl sulfate, SLS) is a synthetic soap-like ingredient that is used in cleansing products such as toothpaste, skin cleansers, shampoos, and soaps, as well as in household cleaners and detergents.
SLES is an ingredient that foams very well, emulsifies oil into tiny droplets, and dissolves away all oily substances and particulate dirt. It is considered less irritating than SLS, mainly because of the difference between their respective molecules - SLES has a larger water-soluble head than SLS, which makes it less harsh on the skin.
There is also solid research confirming that, aside from skin dryness and irritation, the ingredient definitely doesn't cause anything more serious (there were claims that sulfate detergents are carcinogenic).
However, if you find yourself with dry, tight, or irritated skin after using a product containing SLES, then it’s better to just stay away from both.
Science
1
Robinson, V. C., et al. (2010). Final report of the amended safety assessment of sodium laureth sulfate and related salts of sulfated ethoxylated alcohols. International journal of toxicology, 29(4 Suppl), 151S–61S.
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