Four Common Misconceptions About Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES); The Truth Is Different!
Sodium Laureth Sulfate, also known as Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate and abbreviated as SLES, has been used for years as an effective surfactant in personal care products and household cleaners. Derived from coconut oil, SLES is considered a gentle, plant-based, anionic surfactant that is environmentally friendly and sustainable. Despite its benefits, there are several misconceptions about Sodium Laureth Sulfate that often lead industrial detergent manufacturers to hesitate in using it as a raw material. This article addresses four common myths surrounding this ingredient.
Applications of Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate in Detergents:
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) is an anionic surfactant that is widely used as the primary cleansing agent in rinse-off products. This highly versatile surfactant is compatible with all types of surfactants, except for cationic surfactants. In the personal care industry, SLES is commonly used in the formulation of shampoos, cleansing gels, face washes, liquid hand soaps, anti-dandruff products, and more. Its strong cleansing and emulsifying properties also make it a popular ingredient in oral hygiene products such as mouthwashes, toothpastes, and teeth whiteners. In the field of household cleaning, SLES is a key ingredient in formulations for dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents, and carpet shampoos.
Misconceptions About Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES):
In recent years, Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES) has become a controversial topic in the realm of personal care and cleaning products. According to a report, the global surfactant market is projected to exceed $70 billion by 2027, with SLES expected to play a significant role in this growth due to its powerful cleansing properties. However, despite its widespread usage, there is a persistent wave of rumors and misinformation surrounding this ingredient, which has caused many consumers to question its safety and effectiveness.
1– ❌ SLES Is a Carcinogen
✅ SLES Is Not a Carcinogen
One of the most common misconceptions about SLES is that it may cause cancer. This belief likely stems from confusion with a compound called 1,4-dioxane—a byproduct that can form in very small amounts during the ethoxylation process.
Reputable organizations such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Commission have conducted extensive studies on this matter and have stated that with proper purification, the use of SLES in cosmetic and personal care products is completely safe.
2– ❌ SLES Is the Same as SLS
✅ SLES Is Not the Same as SLS
Although SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) and SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) are related, they are not identical. SLES is the ethoxylated version of SLS, which makes it more water-soluble and significantly less irritating to the skin. These differences are important to note. Studies have shown that SLES causes significantly less skin irritation compared to SLS, making it a better option for personal care products. This is why SLES is more commonly used in products such as shampoos and body washes, where a gentler surfactant is preferred.
3– ❌ Incompatibility with Other Ingredients in Personal Care Formulations
✅ Compatible with Other Ingredients Used in Personal Care Formulations
One of the main reasons for the widespread use of Texapon in personal care products is its compatibility with other chemical ingredients. It blends well with conditioning agents, moisturizers, fragrances, and other surfactants, with the exception of cationic surfactants. This allows formulators to create effective and well-balanced products. The flexibility of SLES also allows for the incorporation of beneficial ingredients that enhance both product performance and user experience. Studies have shown that SLES does not interfere with the efficacy or stability of other ingredients, making it a reliable choice for a variety of formulations.
4– ❌ Natural Products Don’t Contain SLES
✅ Many Natural Products Contain SLES or Similar Surfactants
Some consumers believe that natural products should not contain SLES. However, many products labeled as “natural” actually do contain SLES or similar surfactants derived from plant-based sources. The key is to understand the origin and production process of these compounds. Some brands openly disclose the botanical source of the SLES they use, which can help build consumer trust in the natural integrity of their products. This transparency allows consumers to make more informed decisions about the source and processing of raw materials. For example, Padideh Shimi Jam Company, a chemical raw material manufacturer based in Iran, produces a product called Texapon. If you are interested in purchasing Texapon N70, you can contact Padideh Shimi Jam’s specialists to order.
Conclusion:
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) is an effective, safe, and cost-efficient surfactant derived from plant-based sources. It is widely used in cleaning and hygiene products. Misconceptions regarding its carcinogenicity or incompatibility with other ingredients lack scientific basis and have been disproven through reputable studies. Making informed choices and using purified SLES offers a reliable approach to producing high-quality and trustworthy products.
