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Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)

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Illustration (AI-generated)

Sulfate (fails our check)

SLS is one of the oldest and cheapest cleansing agents in shampoo and body wash. It foams a lot and removes oil very well, which is exactly why some people like it and others don't. For oily hair or heavy styling product, it does the job. People with dry hair or skin that reacts easily often find it too stripping and go looking for something softer.

SLS is not a health hazard in rinse-off products at normal levels, according to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. The question is comfort, not safety. Every product on this site leaves it out.

Questions

Is Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) a sulfate?

Yes.