Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a widely used ingredient in skincare and personal care products. It’s a powerful cleansing agent responsible for the foamy lather in many face washes, shampoos, body washes, and even toothpaste. However, what many people don’t realize is that SLS was initially developed as an industrial cleaner, used for degreasing machinery. Over time, it found its way into skincare products, despite its potential to cause irritation and long-term health concerns.

At RootsGuard Skincare, we believe in safe, effective, and skin-friendly formulations, which is why we never use SLS or any of its harsh chemical relatives in our products. In this article, we’ll uncover the hidden dangers of SLS, explore its potential toxicity, and introduce natural alternatives that are gentler on the skin.

1. What is SLS in Skincare?

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a synthetic surfactant (surface-active agent) designed to break down oils and remove dirt. It creates a foamy lather, making it a staple in many personal care products, including:

• Facial cleansers
• Shampoos
• Body washes
• Toothpaste
• Hand soaps

However, what many consumers don’t know is that SLS is also used in industrial-strength cleaners such as:

• Engine degreasers
• Garage floor detergents
• Industrial-strength soaps

If it’s strong enough to strip grease from machinery, imagine what it could do to your delicate skin barrier.

SLS was never designed for skincare—it was formulated to clean industrial equipment. Unfortunately, its low cost and high foaming ability made it attractive for mass-market beauty products.

2. Hidden Secrets of SLS: What Most People Don’t Know

Many skincare brands downplay the potential risks of SLS, but research suggests that prolonged exposure can lead to:

1. Breaks Down Skin Proteins – Scientific studies indicate that SLS can penetrate the skin and disrupt keratin proteins, leading to:

• Premature aging
• Skin barrier dysfunction
• Increased sensitivity to allergens and pollutants

2. Absorbed into the Body – Even though SLS is often rinsed off, trace amounts can be absorbed into the skin, potentially accumulating in tissues over time.
3. Can Cause Eye Damage – Research has linked long-term exposure to SLS in shampoos and face washes to potential eye damage—especially in children.
4.  Can irritate the respiratory tract and cause damage in long run.  

3. Is SLS Toxic? Has It Been Linked to Cancer?

SLS Itself Is Not a Known Carcinogen, But…

While SLS alone has not been officially classified as a carcinogen, its contamination with 1,4-Dioxane (a by-product of the manufacturing process) raises serious concerns. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and World Health Organization (WHO) classify 1,4-Dioxane as a possible human carcinogen.

SLS Can Be Contaminated with Nitrosamines

Some manufacturing processes result in the formation of nitrosamines, which are known to be carcinogenic. These toxic compounds have been detected in certain personal care products containing SLS.

Hormonal Disruption & Long-Term Health Effects

SLS has been shown to mimic estrogen, potentially disrupting the body’s hormonal balance. There is also ongoing research into possible links between SLS exposure and:

• Infertility
• Thyroid dysfunction
• Chronic inflammation

4. Other Ingredients Related to SLS (That You Should Watch Out For)

SLS is just one of many harsh sulfate-based surfactants. Even some ingredients labeled as “gentle” can still be problematic.

🚨 Sulfate-Based Ingredients Similar to SLS

• Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) – Often contaminated with 1,4-Dioxane.
• Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS) – Slightly less harsh but still irritating.
• Sodium Myreth Sulfate – Another sulfate prone to 1,4-Dioxane contamination.
• TEA-Lauryl Sulfate & MEA-Lauryl Sulfate – May form cancer-linked nitrosamines.

⚠️ Other Harsh Surfactants That Act Like SLS

• Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate – Strips away natural oils, leaving the skin dry and irritated.
• Sodium Coco Sulfate – Marketed as “natural,” but still a sulfate.
• Sodium Xylene Sulfonate – Synthetic and can cause skin irritation.

🛑 Preservatives & Enhancers That Make SLS Even Worse

• DEA, MEA, TEA (Foaming agents) – Can form carcinogenic nitrosamines.
• Cocamide DEA/MEA – Classified as a carcinogen in California.
• Propylene Glycol – Increases absorption of toxins into the skin.

At RootsGuard Skincare, we strictly avoid these harmful chemicals, ensuring our products are gentle, safe, and nourishing.

5. Natural Alternatives to SLS in Skincare

For a gentle, non-toxic cleansing experience, choose products with plant-based surfactants:

🌱 Mild & Biodegradable Surfactants

• Coco Glucoside – Derived from coconut and fruit sugars, a mild foaming agent.
• Decyl Glucoside – A non-toxic surfactant from corn and coconut, perfect for sensitive skin.
• Cocamidopropyl Betaine – A coconut-derived alternative that enhances foam while remaining gentle.

🌿 Other Natural Cleansing Ingredients

• Aloe Vera & Plant-Based Gels – Hydrates and soothes the skin.
• Soap Nuts (Reetha) – A traditional Ayurvedic foaming cleanser.
• Clay-Based Cleansers (Kaolin & Bentonite) – Absorb excess oil without stripping the skin.
• Honey & Oat Cleansers – Anti-inflammatory, soothing, and nourishing.

At RootsGuard, we use only safe, natural surfactants in our skincare line to ensure effective cleansing without irritation or any toxicity or any long term harmful effects. 

6. Why Choose Natural Alternatives Over SLS?

• Gentler on Skin – Natural cleansers work in harmony with the skin, preserving moisture and avoiding the harsh stripping of natural oils that can lead to dryness and irritation.
• Safer for Sensitive Skin – Individuals with eczema, rosacea, or acne-prone skin benefit greatly from sulfate-free products that minimize redness, breakouts, and allergic reactions.
• Eco-Friendly – Plant-based surfactants are 100% biodegradable and do not contribute to water pollution, making them a sustainable choice for both skin and the environment.
• Supports Long-Term Skin Health – SLS-free cleansers help maintain the skin’s microbiome, the beneficial bacteria that protect against pathogens and ensure a balanced, healthy complexion over time.
• Non-Toxic & Ethical Beauty – By choosing sulfate-free skincare, consumers avoid unnecessary exposure to synthetic chemicals while also supporting brands that prioritize ethical sourcing and cruelty-free practices.

That’s another reason why we have selective products in the shop, because we provide you  and we produce only the most innocent products to ensure your and your family safety. 

Conclusion

The truth about SLS in skincare is clear—it’s harsh, irritating, and potentially harmful. Many common skincare brands continue to use it, but at RootsGuard Skincare, we are committed to clean, non-toxic beauty. Our products never contain SLS, sulfates, or any of their hidden alternatives.

If you’re looking for gentle yet effective skincare, explore our sulfate-free products at www.rootsguard.com and make the switch to a healthier skincare routine today! 🌿✨