sodium lauryl sulfate

noun

sodium lau·​ryl sulfate -ˈlȯr-əl- 

-ˈlär-

: the crystalline sodium salt C₁₂H₂₅NaO₄S of sulfated lauryl alcohol

also : a mixture of sulfates of sodium consisting principally of this salt and used as a detergent, wetting agent, and emulsifying agent (as in toothpastes, ointments, and shampoos)

Examples of sodium lauryl sulfate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), can be harsh. —Sharon Brandwein, Southern Living, 8 Aug. 2024

The vegan formulas contain no sulfates, silicones, parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), synthetic dyes, mineral oils and other potentially irritating ingredients, and the metallic honeycomb-like packaging is made from recycled materials. —Danielle Directo-Meston, The Hollywood Reporter, 1 Aug. 2024

Sometimes — but not always — lower cost cleansers tend to feature the often irritating ingredient sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), says consultant dermatologist Dr Alia Ahmed. —Jacqueline Kilikita, refinery29.com, 18 June 2024

Sulfates: Sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are commonly used as foaming agents in shampoos. —April Benshosan, Verywell Health, 9 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

sodium lauryl sulfate

noun

: the crystalline sodium salt C₁₂H₂₅NaO₄S of sulfated lauryl alcohol

also : a mixture of sulfates of sodium consisting principally of this salt and used as a detergent, wetting, and emulsifying agent (as in toothpastes, ointments, and shampoos)