What Are Sulfates?

Sulfates are a group of chemical detergents and surfactants commonly used in personal care products to create lather and remove dirt and oil. The most frequently used sulfates include sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).

Why Are Sulfates Used?

Why Can Sulfates Be Harmful?

• Skin & Eye Irritation: Sulfates can strip away natural oils from the skin and scalp, leading to dryness, irritation, or allergic reactions (source).
• Hair Damage: Regular use of sulfates in hair care may weaken hair structure, strip away color in dyed hair, and contribute to frizz (source).
• Environmental Impact: Sulfates can be harmful to aquatic life when washed into waterways (source).

How to Avoid Sulfates

• Check ingredient labels for SLS, SLES, or any word ending in “-sulfate.”
• Look for products labeled “sulfates-free” or browse our recommended products.
• Opt for gentle, plant-based cleansers when possible.

Explore More

Curious about other potentially irritating ingredients? Learn more about parabens-free and phthalates-free products on our Education page.

Who Should Avoid Sulfates?

If you have sensitive skin, eczema, or color-treated hair, avoiding sulfates can help maintain skin and scalp health. Children and babies, who have more delicate skin, may also benefit from sulfate-free products.

They’re effective and cheap. Sulfates create a foamy texture that consumers associate with cleanliness, which is why they’re widely found in products like shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, and facial cleansers. Their ability to cut through oil makes them popular in industrial cleaning products as well.