Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Worst Cleansing Agent No known benefits Sodium Lauryl Sulfate description Versatile ingredient composed of several non-volatile alcohols. Functions primarily as a surfactant, but can also be used as a skin-conditioning agent, emulsifier, and solvent. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is one of the most sensitising cleansing agents used in skincare products. In fact, it's considered a standard comparison substance for measuring the skin sensitisation of other ingredients. In fact, in scientific studies, when the researchers want to establish whether or not an ingredient is problematic for skin, they compare its effect to that of SLS.In amounts of 2% to 5%, sodium lauryl sulfate can cause sensitising reactions for many people. Despite the sensitivity issue, it is not the same as the dire and erroneous warnings floating around the web about this ingredient, all of which have been debunked. Sodium lauryl sulfate isn't a great ingredient in terms of its impact on skin, but its effects are not detrimental to one's health. Related ingredients: Sodium Laureth Sulfate