Sodium laureth sulfate is one of several compounds that make your soaps and shampoos sudsy. A gentler cousin to the more common sodium lauryl sulfate, or SLS, sodium laureth sulfate, or SLES, is found in some shampoos and detergents. Though it is generally considered safe, it may have some harmful effects.
Less Harsh
Sodium lauryl sulfate is the most common detergent in many soaps, shampoos and body washes. Sodium laureth sulfate is less harsh than SLS and may be an ingredient in mild or "natural" shampoos and body wash formulas. If you have sensitive skin, a shampoo with SLES instead of SLS may be a good choice.
Skin Absorption and Irritation
As with many cleansing products used on the body, SLES is absorbed into the skin and hair. If you have a known sensitivity to SLES, or if you are using products that contain SLES and your skin becomes irritated, you should avoid using such products. Sodium laureth sulfate also irritates the eyes, so be careful when washing your body and hair, and avoid using products containing SLES on your face.
Dry Hair
Because SLES is the main cleansing agent in shampoo, it may cause your hair to become dry and brittle. If your hair is naturally dry, coarse and/or curly, consider using a shampoo that does not contain SLES or SLS. However, SLES is slightly gentler than SLS, so it may not cause as much dryness and may be a good SLS alternative -- results vary for everyone.
Possible Carcinogen
Sodium laureth sulfate is an ethoxylated detergent, meaning it contains alcohol compounds that undergo a process called ethoxylation. According to an article by David Steinman in Healthy Living magazine, these compounds are often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, which the United States government lists as a "probable human carcinogen." However, no research has conclusively proven that SLES or other similar detergents cause cancer. If you generally avoid carcinogens, consider finding alternatives to SLES in the products you choose to purchase.
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