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SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE

Description

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a widely used surfactant and detergent in personal care and cosmetic products. This synthetic compound is derived from coconut or palm kernel oil and is known for its effective cleansing and foaming properties. SLS works by lowering the surface tension of water, allowing it to mix with oils and dirt for easy removal from skin and hair.

In skincare formulations, SLS is primarily found in cleansers, shampoos, and body washes. Its concentration typically ranges from 0.5% to 2% in leave-on products and up to 50% in rinse-off products. While SLS is highly effective at removing oil and debris, it can potentially strip natural oils from the skin and hair, leading to dryness and irritation in some individuals.

Studies have shown that SLS can penetrate the skin barrier, potentially causing mild to moderate irritation, especially in those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema. However, when used in appropriate concentrations and properly formulated products, SLS is generally considered safe for most consumers. Alternative, milder surfactants like Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) or Cocamidopropyl Betaine are often used as substitutes in gentler formulations.