Ingredient guide
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) in Lip Balm
What Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) does in lip balm and how it's regulated.
About Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
An ethoxylated surfactant closely related to SLS but milder.
Why brands use it in lip balm
Produces generous lather with less irritation than SLS. Excellent at removing oil and dirt while being cost-effective.
Regulatory status
- US FDA: Approved for cosmetic use. No required testing for 1,4-dioxane contamination levels.
- European Union: Not on the EU prohibited list (some ingredients have concentration limits)
- Canada: Not restricted
Common alternatives
Other ingredients formulators use for a similar job in lip balm:
coco glucoside
decyl glucoside
sodium cocoyl isethionate
lauryl glucoside
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) in other product types
FAQ
What is Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)?
An ethoxylated surfactant closely related to SLS but milder.
Why is Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) used in lip balm?
Produces generous lather with less irritation than SLS. Excellent at removing oil and dirt while being cost-effective.
How is Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) regulated?
Approved for cosmetic use. No required testing for 1,4-dioxane contamination levels.
Does Numbrrrz lip balm contain Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)?
No. Numbrrrz is organic coconut oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil and vitamin E, plus organic essential oils or flavoring in the scented versions. That is a formulation choice, not a judgment about other products.
