SLS Powder (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate)

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.