Sulfate
Sulfates are a class of cleansing agents, or surfactants, commonly used in shampoos, body washes, and cleansers. They create lather and effectively remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from skin and hair. While highly effective, some individuals may find them drying or irritating.
Surfactant
BenefitMinimal 0.8 / 4
Acne i0.5 / 4
Whether it can help acne-prone skin — reducing clogged pores, excess oil, acne-causing bacteria, inflammation, or breakouts.
RiskModerate 1.5 / 4
Irritation i1.5 / 4
Risk of short-term irritation — stinging, burning, dryness, redness, or discomfort. Common for strong actives, acids, retinoids, fragrances, and harsh surfactants.
Sensitization i0.5 / 4
Risk of allergic contact dermatitis or immune-based reactions. Fragrance allergens, preservatives, botanicals, and some dyes may score here.
Systemic exposure i0.2 / 4
Whether it has meaningful potential to be absorbed into the body at levels that may matter biologically. Most cosmetic ingredients score low unless there is known concern or high exposure.
Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.
What it helps with
- Effective cleansing
- Good lathering properties
Things to watch
- Can be drying to skin and hair
- May cause irritation in sensitive individuals
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Frequently asked questions
- What do sulfates do in cosmetic products?
- Sulfates are detergents that create foam and effectively clean by lifting away dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin and hair.
- Are sulfates bad for your hair and skin?
- While effective cleansers, sulfates can sometimes strip natural oils, leading to dryness or irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin or dry hair.
