Sodium dodecyl poly(oxyethylene) sulfate

Sodium dodecyl poly(oxyethylene) sulphate also known as sodium lauryl ether sulphate, an ether sulphate, is the ethoxylated form of sodium lauryl sulphate and is one of the anionic surfactants. Sodium lauryl ether sulphate is a strong oil and fat dissolving cleaning agent. Due to its additional foaming property, sodium lauryl ether sulphate is used in many body hygiene products. Sodium lauryl ether sulphate is also used in toothpastes, shampoos, cosmetics, shower gels and liquid soaps. Sodium lauryl ether sulfate is considered to be skin irritating and can lead to desiccation of the skin.

1. Charbonnier V et al (2001) Subclinical, non-erythematous irritation with an open assay model (washing): sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) versus sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). Food Chem Toxicol 39:279 286.
2. Löffler H et al (2003) Profile of irritant patch testing with detergents: sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate and alkyl polyglucosides. Contact dermatitis 48:26-32.