SLS is bad news. In fact, it’s not good to use in ANY of your personal care products.

We refuse to put SLS in our toothpaste because it causes inflammation, dry mouth, gum irritation, and canker sores that can lead to nasty cavities including much more. 

Get 15% Off with discount code (use at checkout): BLOG15

 

 

What is SLS?

SLS is an emulsifier and foaming agent that is commonly used in personal care and cosmetic products to give them bubbling suds. 

It is commonly found in cosmetic products and industrial cleaners like body wash, soaps, shampoo, toothpaste, and laundry detergent.

The Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database has categorized SLS as a “moderate hazard.” It has been linked to cancer, organ toxicity, skin irritation, endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity, and cancer.

Although it is derived from coconuts, it is contaminated with a toxic by-product during manufacturing.

In fact, SLS and SLES are often contaminated with 1,4 dioxane, a byproduct of the manufacturing process that may be carcinogenic to humans and may also cause negative damage to the kidneys, liver, and central nervous system.

Get 15% Off with discount code (use at checkout): BLOG15

 

Names for SLS

According to the EWG, SLS can also be listed as sodium dodecyl sulfate, sulfuric acid, monododecyl ester, sodium salt, sodium salt sulfuric acid, sodium dodecyl sulfate, aquarex me or aquarex methyl. 

There are many related chemicals including sodium laureth sulfate, which is known to have a higher foaming properties and be slightly less irritating than SLS. Another chemical is Ammonium lauryl sulfate, or ALS, which is similar to SLS and has similar risks.

What are the side effects of sodium lauryl sulfate?

Get 15% Off with discount code (use at checkout): BLOG15

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, undiluted SLS can cause skin and eye irritation, as well as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea if ingested.

SLS Toothpaste Canker Sores

SLS is not only toxic, but it can cause canker sores by irritating the tissues of the mouth and is bad for your oral health.

According to Dr. Burhenne of Ask the Dentist, “SLS is a strong detergent and has demonstrated in several studies to increase canker sore outbreaks and pain. That foamy feeling from SLS might feel good, but SLS actually strips away the protective lining of the mouth.” 

Dentists can actually tell when patients have been using toothpaste with SLS because patients will show signs of sloughing of cheek cells in the intraoral mirror.

Get 15% Off with discount code (use at checkout): BLOG15

Why SLS Free Toothpaste is Best

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is a toxic toothpaste ingredient that actually does not do anything to clean your teeth. According to Bow Line Dental Group, “SLS does not actually clean teeth- its sole purpose is to produce foam and thicken the toothpaste. It gives the impression of cleaning your teeth but actually doesn’t.”

SLS may be great for cleaning your car, but with risk of cancer, inflammation, and irritation, it is a completely unnecessary ingredient that causes much more harm than good in your oral care products.

 FAQs

1. Is SLS free toothpaste good?

The answer is yes, it is beneficial. In addition, the frothiness of the toothpaste makes it easier to reach all corners of your mouth. SLS can be sensitive to certain individuals, especially when applied to areas such as the mouth. A natural toothpaste without SLS may be a better option for people with sensitive gums or canker sores.

2. Why use SLS free toothpaste?

Those who already have sensitive teeth, lips and gums may benefit from using an fluoride free toothpaste. When you have gum disease or canker sores, switching to an SLS free toothpaste might help. Anyone with sensitive teeth should use toothpaste without SLS.

3. Do you need SLS in toothpaste?

Many regular toothpaste formulations contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). As a popular component, it helps create the foam you brush with, but it might irritate sensitive teeth and gums. Thus, several SLS free toothpastes, which keeps your teeth healthy and clean without causing additional tooth sensitivity.

4. Should I avoid SLS in toothpaste?

Based on the NIH, SLS is not a recognized carcinogen and is considered safe for consumer products. Those who use SLS free toothpaste are less likely to experience pain from oral sores or stomatitis, according to the NIH.

5. What is bad about sodium lauryl sulfate?

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) dehydrates the skin and causes it to lose its natural oils, resulting in dry mouth, irritation, and allergic reactions. Sodium lauryl sulfate can also cause irritation to the eyes. The inflammatory skin response includes itchiness, eczema, and dermatitis.

6. Is SLS free toothpaste better?

For some people, free SLS toothpaste is better. Many people experience pain when using SLS toothpaste because it irritates their teeth and gums, making them more sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages. The best toothpaste for them is SLS-free.

7. Why do they put SLS in toothpaste?

As a surfactant, SLS aids in the production of foam, which makes it simpler to spread toothpaste throughout your mouth. Additionally, it aids in removing dirt and tooth stains from teeth's surfaces. SLS is also known to be anti-bacterial, which helps to inhibit the development of oral plaque.

8. Can you be allergic to sodium lauryl sulfate?

Yes, you can be allergic to SLS sodium lauryl sulfate, though they are uncommon. However, sensitivity to sodium lauryl sulfate is typical. SLS can be harsh on skin that is delicate or sensitive. SLS exposure might exacerbate sensitive or damaged skin conditions.