Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate 28%: Uses, Safety, and Market Trends

Introduction

Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate 28% (SLES 28%) is a widely used anionic surfactant in various industries, primarily in cleaning and personal care products. Known for its excellent emulsification, foaming, and detergency properties, this chemical is a key ingredient in shampoos, hand soaps, dishwashing liquids, and other household cleaning items. SLES 28% is highly soluble in water, making it an ideal component for liquid-based formulations. Many SLES chemical manufacturers and SLES bulk supplier cater to the growing demand worldwide. In this blog, we will explore its production process, safety aspects, applications, and market insights.

What is SLES 28%?

SLES 28% is a surfactant that reduces the surface tension of liquids, allowing for better spreading and cleaning capabilities. It is commonly used in detergents, personal care products, and industrial applications due to its ability to generate a stable and rich lather. The SLES surfactant is a milder alternative to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), making it less irritating to the skin and eyes.

How is SLES 28% Made?

SLES 28% is derived from natural fatty alcohols through a process known as ethoxylation, followed by sulfonation. Here’s how it is manufactured:

  1. Ethoxylation – Fatty alcohols (often from coconut or palm oil) are treated with ethylene oxide, creating a mild surfactant.
  2. Sulfonation – The ethoxylated alcohol is then treated with sulfur trioxide or chlorosulfonic acid to create an anionic surfactant.
  3. Neutralization – The resulting compound is neutralized with sodium hydroxide, making it water-soluble and ready for formulation in various products.

Is SLES 28% Safe?

A common question is: Is SLES harmful? While SLES 28% is generally considered safe, it can cause mild skin irritation in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin. Studies show that SLES skin irritation is less severe than SLS, making it preferable for personal care products. Regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EU Cosmetics Regulation approve the use of SLES in cosmetics within specified concentrations, ensuring SLES safety in cosmetics.

SLES 28% Products

SLES 28% is found in a wide range of consumer and industrial products, including:

  • SLES in detergents – It enhances cleaning efficiency by breaking down grease and dirt.
  • SLES in cleaning products – Used in household cleaners, industrial degreasers, and automotive cleaners.
  • SLES in personal care products – Common in shampoos, shower gels, and body washes.
  • SLES in hand soap – Provides a rich lather and effective cleansing.
  • SLES in toothpaste – Helps in foaming and spreading the product in the mouth.
  • SLES in skincare – Used in facial cleansers and exfoliating products.
  • SLES in liquid soap – A key ingredient in hand and body wash formulations.
  • SLES in dishwashing liquid – Efficiently removes grease and stains from utensils.

SLES 28% Safety

SLES 28% has undergone extensive safety testing. It is biodegradable and non-toxic to the environment when used appropriately. While it is safe for use in cosmetics and cleaning products, prolonged exposure to concentrated forms can cause mild irritation. To mitigate risks, manufacturers ensure proper dilution in formulations to maintain product safety.

SLES Market Trends and Pricing

As demand for high-performance surfactants grows, the market for SLES 28% continues to expand. Factors influencing its price include raw material costs, transportation, and demand fluctuations.

  • SLES online purchase – Many global suppliers offer SLES for bulk orders through e-commerce platforms.
  • SLES global suppliers – Leading manufacturers supply SALES across multiple industries worldwide.
  • SLES cost per ton – The price varies based on purity, quantity, and supplier location.
  • SLES market price – Market trends indicate stable growth in demand due to increasing applications in cleaning and personal care.
  • SLES export – Major suppliers export SLES 28% to international markets, ensuring global availability.
  • SLES distributors – Companies partner with distributors to provide bulk orders to various industries.

Conclusion

SLES 28% is an essential ingredient in numerous cleaning and personal care products due to its superior foaming and emulsification properties. While it is considered safe for use, proper formulation ensures minimal skin irritation. At shreekrishnaenviroventure, we specialize in bulk supply of high-quality SLES chemical to meet the needs of businesses across various industries. As a trusted SLES bulk supplier, we ensure consistent quality, competitive pricing, and reliable distribution for all your surfactant requirements. Contact us today for bulk orders and reliable sourcing of SLES 28%.