SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate)
The dominant surfactant in shampoos, body washes, and liquid soaps — milder than SLS with excellent foam and hard water tolerance.
Product Overview
Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), also known as sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) or sodium polyoxyethylene lauryl sulfate, is an ethoxylated anionic surfactant produced by ethoxylation of lauryl alcohol followed by sulfation and neutralization. The ethoxylation step (typically 2-3 EO units) significantly reduces skin irritation compared to non-ethoxylated SLS while maintaining excellent foaming and cleaning performance.
Texas-Chem supplies SLES in 28% liquid (ready-to-use) and 70% paste (concentrated, for large-volume manufacturers who dilute on-site). The 28% grade is the standard for most personal care and household cleaning formulations; the 70% paste offers freight savings for high-volume users.
Common Applications
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 68585-34-2 |
| INCI Name | Sodium Laureth Sulfate |
| Ethoxylation | 2-3 EO units (typical) |
| Active Content | 28% (liquid), 70% (paste) |
| Appearance | Clear to slightly hazy liquid (28%) or white paste (70%) |
| pH (10% solution) | 7.0-9.0 |
| Viscosity (28%) | 50-200 cP at 25°C |
| Biodegradability | >90% — readily biodegradable |
| Grade | Industrial / Technical |
| Packaging | Drums, Totes, Bulk tanker |
Safety & Documentation
SLES is a mild irritant. Avoid contact with eyes. Skin contact with concentrated product may cause mild irritation — use gloves for prolonged handling. The 70% paste requires heated storage (>40°C) to remain pumpable. Review SDS before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SLES 28% and SLES 70%?
SLES 28% is the ready-to-use liquid grade — pump-ready at ambient temperature, preferred by small and medium formulators. SLES 70% is a concentrated paste with 70% active content, requiring heated storage and handling but offering significant freight savings for large-volume manufacturers who dilute on-site.
Why is SLES preferred over SLS in personal care?
SLES is milder than SLS because the ethoxylation step reduces the surfactant's ability to penetrate and disrupt skin lipid barriers. SLES is less likely to cause skin irritation, dryness, and sensitization, making it the preferred choice for rinse-off personal care products.
Is SLES biodegradable?
Yes. SLES is readily biodegradable (over 90% in standard OECD tests). The ethoxylate chain is metabolized by microorganisms, and the resulting lauryl sulfate is further biodegraded. SLES has a good environmental profile for a synthetic surfactant.
What concentration does Texas-Chem supply?
Texas-Chem supplies SLES in 28% liquid (drums and totes) and 70% paste (drums and totes with heated handling). Contact us for specific concentration, packaging, and delivery requirements.
Packaging Options
Key Properties
Delivery Info
SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) vs. Alternatives
SLES is the dominant surfactant in rinse-off personal care. Here is how it compares to SLS and coco betaine.
| Attribute | SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) | SLS | Coco Betaine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Irritation Potential | Low — ethoxylated | Moderate | Very low |
| Active Content | 28% (liquid) or 70% (paste) | 90-95% (powder) or 30% (liquid) | 30% (liquid) |
| Foaming | High | Very high | Moderate — stabilizer |
| Hard Water Tolerance | Good | Moderate | Good |
| Relative Cost | Low | Low–Moderate | Moderate–High |
Industries We Supply SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) To
Personal Care Manufacturing
SLES is the primary surfactant in shampoos, body washes, and liquid soaps produced across Texas personal care facilities.
SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) supply in Houston, TXHousehold Cleaning Products
Used in dish soaps, all-purpose cleaners, and household cleaning concentrates for retail and private-label brands.
SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) supply in Dallas, TXBaby Care
Mild SLES formulations are the standard for baby shampoos and gentle cleansers where mildness is the primary requirement.
SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) supply in Austin, TXIndustrial Cleaning
Used in industrial cleaning concentrates, oilfield wellbore cleaners, and institutional cleaning products.
SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) supply in San Antonio, TX