Milder Alternatives to SLES (N70)

SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) or N70 is a commonly used anionic surfactant in cleansing products due to its excellent foaming and cleaning properties. However, for individuals with sensitive skin or those seeking milder formulations, alternatives are available.

Here are some milder surfactants that can be used to replace or partially replace SLES:

• Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate (DLS): This is a very mild anionic surfactant, often used in sulfate-free formulations. It provides good cleansing and foaming while being significantly less irritating than SLES, making it suitable for sensitive skin, baby products, and facial cleansers.
• Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate: A gentle, sulfate-free anionic surfactant derived from natural resources. It is known for its mildness, ability to enhance skin feel, and provide moisturization benefits. It can function as a primary or secondary surfactant.
• Sophorolipid: A natural surfactant produced by fermentation. It is characterized by its gentleness on the skin, good foaming properties, and effective cleaning, including makeup removal.
• Powderly Foam™ (Potassium Laureth Phosphate): A gentle, sulfate-free detergent that provides a unique soft feel on the skin. It can be used in body and hair cleansing products.
• Sucrose Cocoate: A natural surfactant derived from sugar and coconut oil. It helps increase foam density and stability, provides a re-fatting effect, and improves skin feel during and after washing.

These alternatives offer various benefits in terms of mildness, skin feel, and natural origin, allowing for the creation of gentler cleansing products compared to using SLES alone. The choice of alternative depends on the desired properties of the final formulation, such as foaming, viscosity, and skin feel.