laurüülsulfaadist

Laurüülsulfaat, scientifically known as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), is an anionic surfactant. It is a mixture of sodium salts of sulfuric acid monoesters of lauryl alcohol. Its primary function is as a wetting agent, detergent, and emulsifier. It is commonly found in many personal care products, including shampoos, toothpastes, soaps, and body washes, due to its ability to create lather and remove dirt and oils.

In industrial applications, laurüülsulfaat is used in processes such as degreasing, cleaning, and as a component in laboratory experiments, particularly in biochemistry for protein purification and electrophoresis. Its foaming properties are also utilized in products like fire-fighting foams and in the textile industry.

While widely used and generally considered safe for its intended purposes, laurüülsulfaat can cause skin irritation or dryness in some individuals, especially with prolonged or high-concentration exposure. This is due to its effective emulsifying properties, which can strip natural oils from the skin. For those with sensitive skin, products labeled as "SLS-free" are often preferred. Regulatory bodies in various countries have assessed its safety for use in consumer products.