Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

Category: Surfactant

Brief Description: Similar to SLS, but undergoing an additional chemical process called "ethoxylation."

Benefits: Provides strong cleansing and foaming properties.

Skin Type Suitability/Concerns: Can be irritating to skin and eyes, especially in higher concentrations.

Target Audience: Used in many personal care products; those with sensitive skin may seek alternatives.

Chemical Composition: Sodium salts of sulfated ethoxylated lauryl alcohol.

Physical Aspect: White to cream-colored crystalline solid.

Compatibility: Compatible with a wide variety of cosmetic ingredients.

Concentration: Varies depending on the product; higher concentrations may cause skin irritation.

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions: Can cause skin and eye irritation.

Regulatory Status: Generally permitted for use in cosmetics, with concentration limits in some regions.

Sustainability/Ethical Considerations: Similar to SLS, sustainability issues mainly concern raw materials sourcing.