What to Use Instead of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Amal Elbahnasawy, founder, ARTISANskin recommends swapping out sodium lauryl sulfate for alginate. Here's why.

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Ingredients that change texture, such as alginate, will be sweeping the beauty industry in 2017. Alginate is a natural ingredient derived from seaweed, which means it is packed full of minerals and vitamins that stimulate collagen synthesis, rid pores of toxins, help skin retain water, and leave a brighter, hydrated facial tone. This natural powder turns into a gel when mixed with water and then creates a texture similar to rubber as it dries on the skin, delivering an effective facial mask as well as an experience for the senses.

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)/Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) is a surfactant and can be found in almost every product that contains foam, such as shampoo, toothpaste, and face and body wash. It's a synthetic ingredient and is known as a corrosive irritant, stripping the skin of its protective oils and moisture, and can cause even greater harm if used long term. A better natural alternative, particularly in spa locker rooms, is castille soap-based products.