Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
INCI: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Also known as: SLS, Sodium dodecyl sulfate, SDS
Last updated:
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is an anionic surfactant used as a foaming and cleansing agent in shampoos, body washes, toothpastes, and facial cleansers. It is permitted globally in cosmetic products without specific concentration limits. CIR has reviewed SLS and related alkyl sulfates and concluded they are safe in rinse-off products at any concentration and in leave-on products at up to 1%.
Regulatory status by market
| Market | Status | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| European Union | Permitted | — | Not on Annex II or III |
| United Kingdom | Permitted | — | UK Cosmetics Regulation |
| United States | Permitted | Industry-standard CIR limit: 1% leave-on | CIR review |
| Canada | Permitted | — | Not on Hotlist |
Safety profile
SLS is well-known for its potential to cause skin irritation, dryness, and barrier disruption, particularly at higher concentrations or with prolonged contact. The CIR-recommended limit of 1% in leave-on products reflects this. SLS itself is not a contaminant — concerns about 1,4-dioxane apply to ethoxylated surfactants like Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), not to SLS directly.
Common uses
- Shampoos and body washes (rinse-off cleansers)
- Toothpaste (foaming agent)
- Industrial cleansing applications
Primary sources
Regulatory status is current to the "Last updated" date above. Always verify against the regulator's authoritative publication for the specific market and product category before relying on this summary for compliance decisions.
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