- Description
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate SLS is a versatile substance used in a number of different industries. In the cosmetic industry, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate SLS is a powerful . surfactant popular because it helps products wash away dirt, create foam, and blend oil-based and water-based ingredients.
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate SLS is commonly used in shampoos, bubble baths, body washes, and facial cleansers. The formula or chemical name for Sodium Lauryl Sulphate SLS is NaC₁₂H₂₅SO₄ a and it is typically derived from from plant-derived fatty sources such as coconut oil or palm oil.
Key notes: Although SLS is effective, it can be too strong for some people. On delicate or reactive skin, it may remove too much natural oil, weaken the skin’s protective barrier, and lead to tightness, dryness, redness, or irritation. It may also worsen existing skin concerns such as eczema or scalp sensitivity.
Compared with gentler surfactants such as sodium laureth sulfate, or SLES, SLS is often considered more irritating. SLES is made by modifying SLS to make it milder. For people with sensitive skin, scalp irritation, or inflammatory skin conditions, SLS-free products are often preferred, especially for products that remain on the skin for longer periods.
PLEASE NOTE: This product is not for human or animal consumption. It is not for pharmaceutical applications.
- Suggested Usage
Usage levels are general starting guidelines only. Always check the relevant IFRA documentation and carry out your own testing before use in finished products, especially for cosmetic or skin-contact applications.
For external use only. Do not use undiluted on the skin. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep away from children and pets. This product is not for human or animal consumption.
2. Mixing SLS Into Water
Recommended Dissolution Method
Step What To Do Why It Matters Use warm water Use water at around 40-50°C Warm water helps SLS dissolve more efficiently Avoid excessive heat Keep the temperature below 60°C High heat may increase foaming and reduce product quality Add SLS gradually Slowly sprinkle SLS into the water while mixing This helps prevent lumps, thick gels, and uneven wetting Do not pour water onto SLS Always add SLS into the water phase Adding water to dry SLS can cause clumping Keep mixing continuously Use steady stirring throughout the process Constant movement helps distribute the SLS evenly Use suitable equipment A magnetic stirrer, propeller mixer, or high-shear mixer may be used Proper agitation speeds up dissolving and improves uniformity 3. Optional pH Adjustment
SLS performs best when the formula is kept within a mildly acidic to neutral range.
Target pH Range Adjustment Needed Possible Ingredient pH 6-8 Lower the pH if it is too high Citric acid pH 6-8 Raise the pH if it is too low Sodium hydroxide pH correction is not always required, but it can improve the stability of the finished solution.
4. Keeping SLS Stable In Solution
After the SLS has fully dissolved, the formula may need additional support to prevent separation, cloudiness, thickening issues, or settling during storage.
Stabilization Method Suggested Level Purpose Increase water content Usually diluted to 10-30% active SLS Helps maintain a stable and workable solution Add a co-surfactant such as Cocamidopropyl Betaine 5-10% Can improve mildness, reduce harshness, and support solubility Add sodium chloride carefully 1-3% Helps adjust thickness, but too much may cause instability Use a chelating agent such as EDTA or sodium citrate As required by formula Binds metal ions that may interfere with stability Add a preservative 0.1-0.2% Helps protect water-based solutions from microbial growth Simplified Process Flow
Stage Main Action Select SLS type Choose powder, needles/granules, or liquid depending on ease of use Prepare water phase Warm water to approximately 40-50°C Add SLS Sprinkle slowly into the water while stirring Mix until uniform Continue agitation until fully dissolved Adjust pH if needed Keep around pH 6-8 Stabilize formula Add co-surfactants, salt, chelators, or preservatives as needed
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