Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Also known as: SLS · Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate · SDS
SurfactantCleansing
“A powerful cleansing agent that can strip skin barrier with frequent use.”
What it does
Sodium lauryl sulfate is an anionic surfactant widely used in cleansers, shampoos, and toothpastes. It creates a rich lather and effectively removes oil and dirt. However, it is a known skin irritant at concentrations used in rinse-off products, disrupting the skin barrier and triggering sensitivities — particularly in people with eczema or rosacea.
Benefits
- Highly effective at removing oil, dirt, and makeup
- Creates rich foam and lather
How to layer
☀️ Morning routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
SPF
🌙 Evening routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
Face Oil
After cleansing, before moisturiser
Good for
Normal skinOily skin
Avoid mixing with
Heads up
- ⚠Disrupts the skin's lipid barrier with regular use
- ⚠Known irritant — can cause dryness, redness, and sensitisation
- ⚠Aggravates eczema, rosacea, and sensitive skin conditions
- ⚠May cause mouth ulcers in toothpaste users with sensitivity
How to use
If using products with SLS, minimise contact time (rinse-off only) and follow with a barrier-repairing moisturiser. Avoid if you have sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
Typical concentration: 1–30% in rinse-off products