Q. What is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), and is it safe for use in cleaning products?
A. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a widely used surfactant that removes oily stains and residues used in cleaning products, cosmetics and personal care products that is safe when used properly. In cleaning products, SLS functions by wetting surfaces, emulsifying or solubilizing oils and suspending soil so that it can be rinsed away. This ingredient also contributes foaming properties to cleaning products.
The use of SLS in consumer and industrial products has been thoroughly evaluated and determined to be safe for consumers and the environment by both the U.S Environmental Protect Agency (EPA) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, SLS can cause skin irritation in some persons, depending on the level and duration of exposure. Therefore, consumer product formulators design products to avoid or minimize this effect during consumer use. This is one reason why it is important to always follow the label instructions when using a cleaning product.
Despite past misinformation, there is no evidence that this ingredient has any carcinogenic potential. The studies that have been conducted on SLS indicate that it is safe under proper conditions of use. SLS is not listed by any authoritative bodies as a carcinogen, including the International Agency for the Research of Cancer (IARC), U.S. National Toxicology Program (NTP), California's Proposition 65 list of carcinogens, U.S. EPA or the European Union.