Sodium laureth sulfate



         


Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES, also SLS), is a detergent and surfactant found in many personal care products (soaps, shampoos, toothpaste etc.). It is a cheap and very effective foamer.


CH3(CH2)10CH2(OCH2)2OSO3Na


If SLES is not present sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), ammonium lauryl sulfate (ALS) or sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS, much stronger) will probably be.


There is a persistent but unfounded myth that SLES is carcinogenic. However, it can irritate the skin and cause nausea if ingested.


Sometimes listed as Steol-130, 230, 270, 330, 370 or 460; Stepanol; Alkyl Ether Sulfate; Sodium POE(2) Lauryl Ether Sulfate; Sodium Diethylene glycol Lauryl Ether Sulfate; Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate.


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