• High-performance surfactant with excellent foaming power
• Removes dirt, oil, and buildup effectively
• Widely used in shampoos, facial washes, and shower gels
• Compatible with thickening agents and additives
• Economical and easy to formulate for DIY projects

SLES (Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate) – High Foaming Surfactant for Cleansing Formulations

Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES) is one of the most widely used anionic surfactants in cosmetic formulations. It provides excellent cleansing, foaming, and emulsifying properties, making it a staple in shampoos, facial washes, and body washes. Derived from coconut oil and ethoxylated for mildness, it balances performance and gentleness. DIY formulators prefer SLES for its thickening ability with salt and compatibility with other surfactants.

INCI Name: Sodium Laureth Sulfate

CAS Number: 9004-82-4

Solubility: Water-soluble

Add Phase: Water phase

pH Stability: 5.0 – 8.5

Processing Temperature: Up to 60°C

Appearance: Clear to slightly yellow viscous liquid

Odor: Mild soapy odor

Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₂₅(OCH₂CH₂)nOSO₃Na

Molecular Weight: Variable (depends on ethoxylation, ~420–480 g/mol)

Flash Point: > 100°C

Density: ~1.03 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Anionic surfactant

Functional Groups: Sulfate ester, ether

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Shampoo, facial wash, shower gel, body wash, hand wash

• Usage Rate: 5–30% depending on formulation type
• Thickening Tip: Add sodium chloride to thicken gradually
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

For sensitive-skin shampoos or facial washes, combine SLES with Cocamidopropyl Betaine or Polyquaternium-10 to boost gentleness. Add a few drops of fragrance and panthenol for salon-quality results!

✔️ Oily

✔️ Normal

✔️ Combination

❌ Not recommended for dry or sensitive skin without conditioning agents

1.Clarifying Shampoo

SLES Base: 90%

Lemon Extract: 3%

Panthenol (Vitamin B5): 1%

Fragrance: 1%

Preservative (as required)

2. Herbal Hair Fall Control Shampoo

SLES Base: 85%

Aloe Vera Liquid Extract: 3%

Bhringraj Extract: 2%

Rosemary EO: 0.5%

Polyquaternium-10: 0.5%

Preservative: 1%

3. 2-in-1 Conditioning Shampoo

SLES Base: 70%

BTMS-50: 3%

Coconut Milk Extract: 5%

Guar Conditioner: 2%

Fragrance: 1%

Serums
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Applicable
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Creams & Lotions
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Applicable
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Toners
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Applicable
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Face Masks
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Applicable
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Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Hair Masks
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
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Deodorants
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
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Eye Creams
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Applicable
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Shampoos
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩


Soaps
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Conditioners
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜


Lip Balms
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜


Body Butters
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Applicable
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Ointments
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Applicable
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Q1: Is SLES safe for sensitive scalps?

A: Yes, but may require dilution or blending with milder surfactants like CAPB.

Q2: Can I add fragrance directly?

A: Yes. Add up to 1–2% during the cool-down phase.

Q3: How do I thicken this base if needed?

A: Add 1–2% salt solution slowly while mixing until desired thickness is achieved.