What is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)?
Sodium lauryl sulfate is an anionic surfactant that can be manufactured by reacting lauryl alcohol with petroleum. More frequently, though, it is made by reacting plant sources (such as coconut oil or palm oil) with sulfur trioxide and then neutralized to create SLS.
You’ll find SLS in lotions, liquid soap, laundry detergent, dish detergent, body wash, shampoo, facial cleansers, bath bombs, and even toothpaste.
What is SLS in Toothpastes?
SLS in toothpaste creates some of the foaming action that happens when you brush your teeth and allows the toothpaste to reach all areas of your mouth. It also works to help rinse away food debris after you brush. Toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate usually does not foam as much.
The functionality of SLS helping to spread the fluoride in your toothpaste throughout your mouth is important. Fluoride can help to protect and strengthen your enamel, which in turn helps to prevent tooth decay and cavities. So, having an ingredient like SLS to reduce surface tension and enhance the dispersion of fluoride across the surface of your teeth makes it valuable in many toothpaste formulas.
Is SLS Safe?
Yes, sodium lauryl sulfate is safe. It is approved for use as a food additive by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services states that SLS is safe for use in oral care products.
Sodium lauryl sulfate’s level of toxicity has been a topic of debate—which might explain why you’re on this page in the first place! In some cases, including those with sensitive skin or a toothpaste allergy, SLS might cause some skin irritation. However, the diluted concentration in most SLS toothpaste formulas means it is safe for use.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate vs. Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
False claims citing sodium lauryl sulfate as a carcinogen have surfaced in the past few decades, despite it not being listed as such by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). No evidence exists that would support the idea of SLS having carcinogenic effects.
Still, this misconception exists. One potential reason might be confusion between sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate, or SLES.
Sodium laureth sulfate is manufactured by a process called ethoxylation. The byproduct has the potential to cause products with SLES to be contaminated by 1,4-dioxane, which is possibly carcinogenic to humans. However, SLS, which does not undergo ethoxylation, does not have the same risk of 1,4-dioxane contamination.
But even then, the risk of contamination in SLES products is unclear, as is the prevalence and impact of 1,4-dioxane. For example, the FDA conducted research suggesting that 1,4-dioxane evaporates quickly, minimizing the amount available for absorption in things like lotion, shampoo, or other personal care products with SLES.
Ultimately, remember this point: personal care products with SLES are widely accepted for use, as are oral care products with SLS. Still, if you prefer to use toothpastes that don’t contain SLS, you have options!
How Do SLS-Free Toothpastes Clean Teeth?
Instead of sodium lauryl sulfate, SLS-free toothpastes use other cleansers to disperse and remove food particles. Some, such as ARM & HAMMER™ Essentials, also use baking soda to help remove food and stains, and whiten teeth for a beautiful smile.
SLS-free toothpastes may not foam as much as those containing SLS, so the experience of using one may feel a bit different. You still have choices in flavor and formula when it comes to SLS-free toothpastes. There are SLS-free toothpastes that contain fluoride, which can help strengthen teeth and prevent cavities, while other SLS-free toothpastes do not have fluoride among their ingredients.
Some people are more sensitive to SLS than others, especially when used in sensitive areas like the mouth. If your gums are sensitive or you are prone to canker sores, SLS-free toothpaste might be a good alternative. However, you might just prefer a SLS-free toothpaste due to the way it feels, freshens, and cleans your mouth.
Try an ARM & HAMMER™ Toothpaste without SLS
Which kind of toothpaste you use is up to you, including those that don’t have sodium lauryl sulfate. Here are three SLS-free formulas from ARM & HAMMER™ you can try:
- ARM & HAMMER Essentials Whiten & Strengthen Fluoride Toothpaste: Proven to smooth surface imperfections and restore gloss and luster to your smile while being free of SLS, parabens, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners and dyes.
- ARM & HAMMER™ Essentials Fluoride-Free Toothpaste Whiten + Activated Charcoal: Uses 100% natural baking soda to gently remove surface stains and whiten teeth without containing fluroride, SLS, or artificial sweeteners.
Learn More about How to Take Care of Your Teeth
