Natural SLS-Free Liquid Toothpaste Formulation and Surfactant Selection

For a natural, SLS-free toothpaste with medium foam in a liquid or gel format, the following surfactants are highly recommended due to their gentleness and performance in oral care:

Recommended Surfactants for Toothpaste

1. Cond-Foam™ (Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Liquid)

   • Why it's best: This is one of the most popular surfactants for toothpaste because it is not bitter, unlike many other detergents. It provides a rich, creamy foam and is very gentle on the oral mucosa.
   • Usage: It performs best at a pH of 5.0–6.0.

2. Lauryl Glucoside or Coco Glucoside

   • Why it's best: These are 100% natural, non-ionic surfactants derived from coconut/palm oil and corn sugar. They are extremely mild.
   • Note: They have a high pH (alkaline), so the final formula's pH must be adjusted with an acid (like Citric Acid). They produce less foam than Sarcosinates, so they are often used in blends.

3. Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids

   • Why it's best: An amino acid-based surfactant derived from oats. It offers a very fine, dense lather and is exceptionally gentle, making it ideal for sensitive-mouth formulas.

Liquid/Gel Toothpaste Guide Formula

This formula creates a clear, gentle liquid or gel toothpaste.

Ingredients:

1. Water: to 100%
2. Glycerin (Humectant): 15–20% (prevents the product from drying out)
3. Cond-Foam™ (Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate): 5–10% (adjust for desired foam level)
4. Xanthan Gum: 0.5–1.0% (use to create a gel; omit if you want a thin liquid)
5. Sweetener (e.g., Stevia or Sorbitol): as needed
6. Flavor (e.g., Peppermint Oil): 0.5–1.0%
7. Preservative: as recommended by the manufacturer

Mixing Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: Mix Xanthan Gum with Glycerin first to prevent clumping. Then slowly add the Water while stirring until a smooth gel forms.
2. Add Actives: Add your sweetener and flavor/essential oils.
3. Add Surfactant: Add Cond-Foam™ last. Stir very gently to avoid creating excess foam during production.
4. Adjust pH: Check the pH and adjust to approximately 6.0–7.0 using a small amount of Citric Acid or Lactic Acid.

If you want to add "polishing" properties, you can include a small amount of dental-grade Silica, though this may turn the liquid cloudy.