You are currently viewing Sodium Laureth Sulfate in Skin Care: All You Need To Know

Sodium Laureth Sulfate, commonly abbreviated as SLES, is one of the most widely used cleansing agents in skincare, haircare, and other personal care products.

It has been in the cosmetics industry for decades, popularly used due to its ability to create that satisfying foamy lather you get from shampoos and facial cleansers. But it also comes with its share of controversy, especially when it comes to skin sensitivity and long-term use.

At Clique Clinic in Malaysia, where we see patients daily for skin concerns ranging from acne to pigmentation, we often get asked: Is Sodium Laureth Sulfate bad for skin? Should I avoid it completely? Is sodium laureth sulfate safe?

Let’s break it down based on the science, so you can make the best decision for your skin.

What is Sodium Laureth Sulfate for Skin?

Sodium Laureth Sulfate is a synthetic surfactant and cleansing agent. It is popular in skincare, haircare, and oral care because of its dual role, cleaning effectively while producing a satisfying foam.

In simple terms, SLES works like a magnet for dirt and oil. One end of its molecule clings to grease and impurities, while the other binds to water, allowing you to rinse away build-up with ease.

  • Function: Removes oil, dirt, sweat, and residue from the skin’s surface
  • Appearance: Usually a clear to slightly yellow liquid
  • Common Uses: Facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, toothpaste

At Clique Clinic, our dermatology-trained team acknowledges that SLES-based cleansers can benefit oily, acne-prone skin, but also how they may trigger dryness in more sensitive skin types.

Chemical Composition & Properties of Sodium Laureth Sulfate

What is Sodium Laureth Sulfate Made From? SLES is an ethoxylated form of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). This means extra ethylene oxide units are added to make it milder.

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The sodium laureth sulfate structure is as below:

  • Molecular formula: C12H25NaO4S (with ethoxylate units).
  • Texture & Performance: Creates a rich lather that helps water mix with oil and dirt for easy rinsing.
  • Core Action: Breaks down the surface tension between oil and water, allowing thorough cleansing.

More on SLES.

What is the Difference Between Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate?

While SLS and SLES are close relatives, there are important differences:

  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): Harsher, known to cause more skin irritation, especially with frequent use.
  • Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): Milder due to ethoxylation [see above for properties of SLES], making it less irritating for most people.
  • Safety: SLES is generally considered safer for frequent use compared to SLS, but sensitivity can still occur.

At Clique Clinic, we sometimes see patients who react poorly to SLS but tolerate SLES well in low concentrations.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate Function in Skincare

The primary role of Sodium Laureth Sulfate in skincare is to clean effectively while making the cleansing process enjoyable with foamy lather.

Its main functions include:

  • Acting as a detergent to loosen and remove oils and debris.
  • Helping other ingredients in a formula spread evenly.
  • Providing the characteristic bubbly foam in many washes.

If you’ve used a facial cleanser that left your skin feeling “squeaky clean,” there’s a good chance SLES was involved.

As for the hair, sodium laureth sulfate in shampoo is common, and it removes dirt, sebum, and styling product residue effectively.

Another concern about SLES is does sodium laureth sulfate causes hair loss?

Well, research supports that while SLES is effective, gentle formulations help maintain scalp health.

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Key Benefits of Sodium Laureth Sulfate in Skincare

So, what does sodium laureth sulfate do to your skin? When used appropriately, SLES offers multiple benefits:

  • Deep Cleansing: Excellent for removing excess sebum, pollutants, and sunscreen. This is perfect for Malaysia’s hot, humid climate where sweat and oil build-up is common.
  • Effective Lathering: Helps you feel like your skin is thoroughly cleansed.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Keeps product prices affordable without compromising cleaning power.
  • Versatility: Works in facial cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and even toothpaste.

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Sodium Laureth Sulfate Side Effects & Considerations

Like all surfactants, SLES can have drawbacks:

  • Dryness or Tightness: Can strip away too much of the skin’s natural oil layer, especially if used multiple times a day.
  • Irritation in Sensitive Skin: Those with eczema, rosacea, or a compromised skin barrier may experience stinging or redness.
  • Milder than SLS but Not Harmless: Ethoxylation reduces irritation, but overuse can still cause sensitivity.

Is Sodium Laureth Sulfate Safe for Pregnancy?

Yes, in normal cosmetic concentrations, SLES is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. There is no scientific evidence linking it to pregnancy complications. However, during pregnancy, some women find their skin becomes more sensitive, so switching to a gentler cleanser might be more comfortable.

At Clique Clinic, we often recommend gentler, non-foaming cleansers for expecting mothers if they experience increased dryness.

How to Use Sodium Laureth Sulfate in Your Skincare Routine?

  • Step 1: Wet your skin with lukewarm water.
  • Step 2: Apply a small amount of SLES-based cleanser.
  • Step 3: Massage gently in circular motions for 20–30 seconds.
  • Step 4: Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
  • Step 5: Follow with a hydrating toner or moisturizer.

For most skin types, once-a-day use is enough. Over-cleansing can lead to dryness and barrier disruption.

Who Should Use It?

Best Suited For:

  • Oily or acne-prone skin.
  • Resilient skin types.
  • Those needing a powerful cleanse after sports or outdoor activities.

Use with Caution:

  • Sensitive, dry, or eczema-prone skin.
  • Skin undergoing aggressive treatments like chemical peels, lasers, or microneedling at Clique Clinic.

Final Thoughts

Sodium Laureth Sulfate is a powerful, effective cleansing ingredient found in countless skincare and haircare products. It offers deep cleaning, removes oil and dirt with ease, and creates the luxurious foam many people love. However, it’s not ideal for every skin type. Sensitive or dry skin may need a gentler approach.

At Clique Clinic, we often help patients fine-tune their skincare routine, sometimes keeping SLES cleansers for evening deep cleanses, while using gentler formulas in the morning.

If you are unsure whether SLES is right for your skin, schedule a consultation with our team @wa.me/60123537960.

We can assess your skin type, hair scalp, lifestyle, and treatment goals to recommend the right treatments and products that work in harmony with your skin and hair needs.

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