sodium lauryl sulfate

noun

sodium lau·​ryl sulfate -ˈlȯr-əl- 

-ˈlär-

: the crystalline sodium salt C₁₂H₂₅NaO₄S of sulfated lauryl alcohol

also : a mixture of sulfates of sodium consisting principally of this salt and used as a detergent, wetting agent, and emulsifying agent (as in toothpastes, ointments, and shampoos)

Examples of sodium lauryl sulfate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

People sensitive to sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), another common ingredient in toothpaste, can produce canker sores and skin peeling inside the mouth when exposed to it for a prolonged time. —Popular Science, 14 Mar. 2024

Potential Irritants: Check to see if the toothpaste includes sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). —Jessica Booth, Parents, 10 Mar. 2024

Many are also free from sodium lauryl sulfate, or SLS, a detergent that helps toothpaste foam up but can cause irritation in some people. —Lacey Muinos, Health, 11 Dec. 2023

The premade mixture uses the active ingredients sodium lauryl sulfate (a surfactant used in soaps) and malic acid (found in fruit) and comes in a stand-up jar. —Lauren Piro, Good Housekeeping, 30 June 2023

Chamomile, which Rubenstein says enhances golden tones, and foaming agents like sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). —Danielle Blundell, Women's Health, 28 June 2023

This cruelty-free product is free of harsh chemicals such as SLS (sodium lauryl sulfates), SLES, ethoxylates, petroleum solvents, synthetic fragrances, dyes, parabens, or triclosan, ensuring that there is no harsh chemical residue left behind. 20. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 12 Apr. 2023

Rocky Mountain Barber Company Daily Use Shampoo is not only packed with healthy hair ingredients for all hair and scalp types but also does not contain any ingredients that can actually be more detrimental than beneficial, such as parabens and sodium lauryl sulfate. —Grooming Playbook, The Salt Lake Tribune, 16 May 2022

Its hypoallergenic formula ensures your little one is kept safe from harsh chemicals and sodium lauryl sulfate. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 4 Apr. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

sodium lauryl sulfate

noun

: the crystalline sodium salt C₁₂H₂₅NaO₄S of sulfated lauryl alcohol

also : a mixture of sulfates of sodium consisting principally of this salt and used as a detergent, wetting, and emulsifying agent (as in toothpastes, ointments, and shampoos)