Sodium Laureth Sulfate vs. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: What’s the Difference?
Sulfates are everywhere—found in the products we use every day, like shampoo, body wash, laundry detergent, toothpaste, and cleaning solutions. But not all sulfates are created equal.
At PÜR Evergreen®, we believe that being informed is the first step to living a healthier, more natural life. That’s why we’re breaking down the difference between two commonly confused ingredients: Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS).
🧪 Why Should You Care About Sulfates?
Sulfates are used as foaming agents and detergents. They help create that satisfying lather and break down oils and dirt—great for cleaning, but not always great for your skin. These ingredients are known to strip away natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and sensitivity, especially for those with allergies, eczema, or asthma.
🔍 The Key Differences: SLES vs. SLS
While these two ingredients sound alike, they’re not the same—and your skin knows the difference.
✅ Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
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Derived from: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), then processed through ethoxylation.
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Milder on skin: The ethoxylation process makes SLES significantly gentler.
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Function: Still acts as a foaming and cleansing agent, just with lower risk of irritation.
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Used in: Products that aim to be less harsh—like those from PÜR Evergreen®.
🚫 Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
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More abrasive: Known to cause skin and eye irritation in high concentrations.
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Used in: A wide variety of personal care and cleaning products—sometimes in concentrations as high as 30%!
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Lack of transparency: Many products don’t list how much SLS is used, leaving consumers in the dark.
💡 Why PÜR Evergreen® Chooses SLES
At PÜR Evergreen®, your family’s health comes first. That’s why we use SLES, not SLS, in our cleaning formulations. It gives you the same grime-busting power—without the harsh side effects. Our mission is to create products that clean effectively without compromising your well-being or the planet.
In Summary:
| Feature | Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) 🚫 | Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Harshness | High – Known to irritate skin/eyes | Milder – Less irritating to skin |
| Source | Petroleum or coconut oil | Derived from SLS (via ethoxylation) |
| Risk of Reaction | High – Can cause dryness/eczema | Lower – Gentler for sensitive skin |
| Used In | Harsh cleaners, toothpaste, etc. | Safer cleaning & personal products |
| PÜR Evergreen Approved? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
✨ Choose Safer, Cleaner Living
Knowledge is power—especially when it comes to the products in your home. Always read labels, do your research, and trust brands that value transparency. At PÜR Evergreen®, we’re committed to formulating products that are effective, gentle, and truly natural.