CAUTION — -8 pts

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

Flags: S-Y04, T-O01

Also known as: SLS, Sodium dodecyl sulfate, SDS, Sodium laureth sulfate, SLES

Kids Sunscreen & SkincareKids Toothpaste & Oral Care

What it is

SLS is a surfactant and foaming agent used in toothpaste, shampoo, body wash, and skincare products to create lather. SLES (sodium laureth sulfate) is a milder, ethoxylated version. Both are among the most common cleansing agents in personal care products.

CAUTION in toothpaste / WATCH in skincare

In toothpaste (CAUTION): SLS is a known trigger for recurrent aphthous ulcers (canker sores) and is an oral mucosal irritant. SLS-free toothpastes significantly reduce canker sore recurrence. In skincare (WATCH): SLS is an irritant that can exacerbate eczema and sensitive skin conditions in children.

Why it matters

Oral mucosa irritation: documented trigger for recurrent canker sores (aphthous ulcers)
Skin irritation: disrupts skin barrier function, particularly problematic for eczema-prone children
Eye irritation in children's products
Not toxic or carcinogenic, but unnecessary irritant when alternatives exist

The research

The effect of sodium lauryl sulfate on recurrent aphthous ulcers

Herlofson BB, Barkvoll P. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 1994. 21(10):717-720 PMID: 7852619 [Source]

"Patients using SLS-free toothpaste had significantly fewer aphthous ulcers and reduced pain compared to SLS-containing toothpaste"

Who should care most

Children prone to canker sores (SLS toothpaste). Children with eczema or sensitive skin (SLS skincare). Not a systemic toxicity concern.

How other countries handle it

Country	Status
United States	Permitted in all product categories. No restrictions.
European Union	Permitted. No specific restrictions.
Canada	Permitted.
Australia	Permitted.

Sources

The effect of sodium lauryl sulfate on recurrent aphthous ulcers. Herlofson BB, Barkvoll P. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 1994. 21(10):717-720. PubMed 7852619

For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Consult your pediatrician. Data current as of March 24, 2026.