Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS Powder)
-
INCI Name:
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
-
Molecular Formula:
C₁₂H₂₅SO₄Na
-
CAS Number:
151-21-3
-
Alternate Names:
- SLS Powder
- Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS)
- Sodium Lauryl Sulphate
- Anionic Surfactant
- Foaming Agent
- Detergent Surfactant
Key Benefits:
- Excellent cleansing performance
- Produces abundant and stable foam
- Effective removal of oil, dirt, and impurities
- Highly versatile surfactant for personal care products
- Cost-effective cleansing ingredient
- Compatible with many formulation systems
Benefits & Uses (Short):
- Used in shampoos, face washes, body washes, and toothpaste
- Provides strong cleansing and foaming action
- Removes excess oil and product buildup
- Common ingredient in industrial and personal care cleaners
- Improves foam volume and product performance
Recommended Usage Level:
- Shampoos: 5% – 20%
- Body Washes: 3% – 15%
- Face Washes: 1% – 10%
- Toothpaste: 0.5% – 2%
- Industrial Cleaners: As required
How It Works (Short):
- Functions as an anionic surfactant that reduces water surface tension
- Forms micelles that encapsulate oils, dirt, and impurities for easy removal
- Generates rich foam by trapping air within surfactant structures
- Provides powerful cleansing action on skin, hair, and surfaces
- Improves wetting and spreading of formulations
- Often combined with milder surfactants such as CAPB to reduce irritation and improve sensory feel
FAQs:
Q: What is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Powder used for?
A: It is used as a cleansing and foaming agent in shampoos, body washes, toothpaste, and cleaning products.
Q: What is the difference between SLS and SLES?
A: SLS is a stronger cleanser, while SLES is ethoxylated and generally milder on skin and hair.
Q: Does SLS create a lot of foam?
A: Yes, SLS is one of the most effective foam-producing surfactants used in personal care products.
Q: Can SLS be used in sulfate-free products?
A: No, SLS is a sulfate-based surfactant and is not suitable for sulfate-free formulations.
Q: Why is CAPB often added with SLS?
A: CAPB helps reduce irritation, improve foam quality, and enhance mildness.
