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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.”

Skin types
Normal, Oily
Pore-clogging
Won't clog pores
Use when
AM & PM
Concentration
1–30%
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