<p>Most of us grew up with <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/c/shampoo" target="_blank">shampoo</a> instructions that read, “lather, rinse, repeat,” but never stopped to think about what, exactly, was in those suds that let us know the product was getting the job done. The answer? Sodium lauryl sulfate, or SLS. Like other chemicals in personal care products, SLS is an often-debated ingredient. Some say SLS is totally harmless and simply helps a cleansing product perform as effectively as possible, while others express concern over its reported potential side effects. Whether you want to shop SLS-free or just want to understand this ingredient a bit more, we’ve got your questions answered.</p>

<h2>What Is SLS?</h2>

<p>“SLS” stands for sodium lauryl sulfate, which is a detergent and surfactant used in many personal care products. It functions to break up surface tension and help create a lather to indicate the product is indeed cleansing. Because it’s relatively inexpensive, SLS is a common ingredient in many products. That makes it tough to avoid. </p>

<h2>Benefits of Buying SLS-Free Products</h2>

<p>There is no conclusive research officially linking sodium lauryl sulfate to serious health conditions such as cancer. But reports have surfaced over the years that higher concentrations of the chemical may lead to skin irritation and additional side effects like eye irritation and <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.3109/10915818309142005"target="_blank">labored breathing</a>. Buying products made without this ingredient can help alleviate that worry, not to mention a possible reaction. If you’re someone with sensitive skin, it’s something to consider.</p>

<h2>Tips for Shopping SLS-Free</h2>

<p>One of the biggest mistakes made when shopping SLS-free products is assuming an item is totally free of sodium lauryl sulfate because it’s labeled “natural.” This term is not regulated by the FDA and therefore doesn’t always mean a product is completely chemical-free. Instead, look for products marked “sulfate-free” to ensure sodium lauryl sulfate is not on the list of ingredients. </p>

<h2>Top SLS-Free Brands</h2>

<p>Take a cleaner approach to your routine with these SLS-free must-haves. </p>

<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/babo-botanicals"target="_blank">Babo Botanicals</a></h2>

<p>This family-focused brand is particularly known for crafting gentle products for people with sensitive skin, but everyone can reap the benefits of their body lotions, sunscreens, and shampoos.</p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/babo-botanicals-3-in-1-wipes-face-hands-body-wipes"target="_blank">3-in-1 Wipes for Face and Body</a><h3>

<p>Don’t leave home without 3-in-1 wipes from Babo Botanicals. From the gym to the office, these hypoallergenic wipes are infused with lavender to clear away dirt and give you a relaxing moment at the same time.</p> 

<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/mollys-suds"target="_blank">Molly’s Suds</a></h2>

<p>Molly’s Suds launched in 2008 with one goal in mind—to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals through nature-based laundry products. Today, the brand offers household cleaning staples made from eco-friendly, safe formulas that get the job done. </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/mollys-suds-bulk-laundry-powder-peppermint"target="_blank">Molly’s Suds PeppermintLaundry Powder</a></h3>

<p>Tackle up to 70 loads with just five natural ingredients thanks to this super-concentrated formula. It’s made without harsh chemicals, toxins, fillers, carcinogens, preservatives, or GMO ingredients. </p>

<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/acure"target="_blank">Acure</a></h2>

<p>This family-owned business creates skin care essentials—moisturizers, cleansers, and more—with organic, wholesome ingredients. Every item is free of harsh chemicals, too. </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/acure-moroccan-argan-oil"target="_blank">Acure Moroccan Argan Oil</a></h3>

<p>If ever there was a multitasking product everyone should have in their medicine cabinet, this is one-ingredient argan oil wonder is it! It’s rich in vitamin E and can be used as a lightweight serum, body oil, or split-end mender. </p>

<h2>You Might Like</h2>

<p>Want more on self-care products sans chemicals? Dig into the Thrive Market blog! </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/workouts-make-you-break-out-you-need-these-diy-face-wipes">DIY Face Wipes</a></h3>

<p>If you want to completely avoid harsh chemicals in personal care products, try making your own. These breakout-fighting face wipes come together with organic dried rose petals, witch hazel, aloe vera gel, tea tree essential oil, and cotton rounds.</p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/why-you-should-use-paraben-free-products"target="_blank">Why You Should Use Paraben-Free Products</a></h3>

<p>If you’ve nixed sulfates from your product list, parabens might be next. But what’s so controversial about this family of chemical preservatives? We break down what goes into them, and explain why detoxing them from your daily routine can make a big difference.</p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/make-diy-laundry-tablets-with-3-natural-ingredients"target="_blank">DIY Laundry Tablets</a></h3>
<p>Give your laundry a DIY spin with handy, chemical-free tablets you can toss in the washer. All you need is a handful of ingredients like laundry powder, lemon essential oil, and white vinegar.</p>

Get all your shopping done in one place without having to go to special stores for specific items. Get all your SLS free products here.

SLS (aka sodium lauryl sulfate) is a cleaning agent and surfactant used in many personal care products to help create lather. Refresh your routine with these SLS-free must-haves.

SLS-Free

Gluten-Free

Ketogenic

Organic

Whole30® Compatible

Vegan

Paleo

Low FODMAP

Mediterranean Diet

AIP Diet

Vegetarian

Plant-Based Perfection: How to Make a Vegan Burger

Keto vs. Atkins

6 Gluten-Free Recipes & Pantry Staples This Member Can’t Live Without

Shop By

Food

Vitamins & Supplements

Meat & Seafood

Home

Bath & Body

Babies & Kids

Beauty

What's New

2 Paleo Recipes That Bring Out the Best in Our Thrive Market Avocado Honey

How To Cook Spatchcock Chicken

Top Rated

Thrive Market Goods

Non-GMO

Big 9 Allergen-Free

Certified Organic

Certified Gluten-Free

Staff Picks

Bestsellers

On-The-Go Snacks & Bars

Spring Picks

Cinco De Mayo

Earth-Friendly Favorites

Charcuterie Essentials

New Lower Price

Trending Now

Pantry

Frozen

Wine

Health

Personal Care

Household

Beef

Poultry

Pork

Seafood

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings 2 Ways: Air-Fried and Baked

Easy Salmon Recipes

Baking

Canned & Packaged Foods

Cereals & Granolas

Condiments & Sauces

Ghee, Oils & Vinegars

Grains, Pasta & Bread

Honey & Sweeteners

Nut Butters & Fruit Spreads

Soups, Meals & Side Dishes

Spices, Seasoning & Salt

Our Baking Supplies

What’s New

9 Pumpkin Spice Recipes to Make This Fall

Minimize Food Waste by Getting Strategic

Whole30 Approved®

Non-GMO Project Verified

Dairy-Free

Bars

Candy & Chocolate

Snacks

Snacks, Bars & Treats

Cocktail Mixers

Coconut Water

Coffee

Coffee Creamer

Functional & Energy Drinks

Hot Chocolate

Juice & Nectar

Kids' Drinks

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Plant Based Milk

Protein Drinks

Smoothie & Drink Mixes

Sodas & Sparkling Juices

Water & Sparkling Water

Beverages

Ethically Sourced

Certified Kosher

Certified Fairly Traded

Sustainably Farmed

Caffeine-Free

Appetizers & Snacks

Frozen Bread & Dough

Breakfast Foods

Frozen Desserts

Frozen Fruit & Vegetables

Meals

Frozen Meat & Seafood

Pasta

Pizza

Plant-Based Meat & Seafood

Prepared Meat & Seafood

Bundle & Save

Pasture-Raised

Sustainably Caught

Free-Range

Made in USA

Family-Owned Business

Grass-Fed

No Antibiotics / Synthetic Hormones

Cider & Hard Pressed Juice

Red Wine

Sparkling

White Wine & Rosé

3 Ways to Cook With Leftover Wine

Red Wine Hot Cacao Recipe

Baby & Kids' Food

Baby & Kids' Health

Baby & Kids' Snacks

Diapering

Moms & Maternity

7 Quick, Easy, Fun, and Healthy Recipes to Cook With Your Kids

Our Diapers & Wipes

Healthy Homeschool Snacks for Every Craving

Dye- and Color Additive-Free

Fragrance-Free

Phthalate-Free

Health Concerns

Herbs & Homeopathy

Sports Nutrition

Dishwashing

Home Fragrance

Household Cleaners

Kitchen Supplies

Laundry

Paper Products

Potting Soil & Fertilizer

Storage & Organization

BPA-Free

Essential Oils

Paraben-Free

Cat Food & Treats

Dog Food & Treats

Pet Care

Best Sellers

How to Prep for a New Dog or Cat

10 Nontoxic Pet-Friendly Cleaning Products

Grain-Free

Soy-Free

Exclusives

Gift Guide

Gift Cards

Gift Boxes

Gifts