SLES N70 (Sodium Laureth Sulphate, 70% active matter) is the most widely used anionic surfactant in the global personal care industry, with an active matter content of 69.0–72.0% and a pH value of 7.0–9.0 (3% aqueous solution). The ethoxylated form of SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate), SLES N70 produces outstanding foam volume and foam quality with significantly milder skin and eye irritation compared to SLS — making it the primary cleansing surfactant in the majority of commercial shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and household cleaning products globally.
Applications:
- Shampoos (primary cleansing surfactant for foam generation and scalp cleansing)
- Body Wash & Shower Gel (primary high-foam cleansing surfactant)
- Facial Cleansers (foaming facial wash base for normal to oily skin)
- Household Cleaning (dishwashing liquids, general purpose cleaners, floor care)
Key Features & Benefits:
- Active matter 69.0–72.0%, pH 7.0–9.0 – high concentration SLES surfactant
- Outstanding foam volume and foam quality
- Milder irritation profile than SLS – broadly suitable for personal care applications
- The most widely used primary surfactant in global personal care manufacturing
- Excellent compatibility with a broad range of co-surfactants and additives
Diluting SLES 70 without lumps
SLES 70 is a paste of about 70% sodium laureth sulfate. When it is diluted it passes through a very thick gel phase, so add the paste slowly to the water with good stirring, rather than adding water to the paste. Pre-diluted 25–30% solutions are easier to handle but must be preserved, because dilute SLES supports microbial growth.
1,4-dioxane and ethoxylation
SLES is made by ethoxylating lauryl alcohol before sulfation. The ethoxylation step can leave traces of 1,4-dioxane, an impurity that some markets limit and many brands want kept as low as possible. Ask for the 1,4-dioxane result and the average degree of ethoxylation (commonly 2 EO).
Building viscosity and mildness
SLES formulas are usually thickened with salt, and a co-surfactant such as Betaine raises viscosity and reduces irritation. For sulfate-free products, see Alkyl Polyglucoside 1214. Add a chelating agent such as EDTA if the water is hard.
What to ask for on the certificate of analysis
- Active matter (%), pH (stated dilution) and sodium sulfate or chloride content
- 1,4-dioxane, with the method
- Unsulfated matter and average degree of ethoxylation
- Fatty alcohol origin (palm or coconut)
- Heavy metals, as required for cosmetics under the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive
- Microbiology (total aerobic count, yeast and mould) for water-containing grades
- Batch number, manufacture and retest dates; safety data sheet (SDS)
