Ingredient review
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
INCI: AMMONIUM LAURETH SULFATE
A strong foaming cleanser that can strip the skin's natural oils, best for oily or resilient skin types.
In plain English
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES) is a detergent-like ingredient that helps shampoos and body washes lather up and remove dirt and oil. It is similar to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) but is often considered slightly milder because it is derived from a gentler chemical process. However, it can still be drying or irritating for sensitive skin, especially with frequent use.
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate can be useful, but watch for some irritation potential.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Ammonium Laureth Sulfate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
moderateCan bother some users, especially with frequent use, damaged skin, or strong companion ingredients.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
strongThere is a stronger practical or research basis for the ingredient role described here.
What it is
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate is a synthetic surfactant made by reacting lauryl alcohol (from coconut or palm oil) with ethylene oxide and then sulfating it with ammonium hydroxide. It is a clear or slightly yellow liquid that creates rich foam.
How it works
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing water to mix with sebum and dirt so they can be rinsed away. Its negatively charged head attracts water, while its tail grabs onto oils, lifting impurities off the skin and hair.
Pros
Excellent foaming ability
Creates a rich, bubbly lather that many people associate with a thorough clean, making it satisfying to use in shampoos and body washes.
Effective oil removal
Strongly lifts sebum and product buildup from skin and hair, ideal for oily scalps or heavy makeup removal when used in a cleanser.
Cons and cautions
Can be drying
Frequent use may strip the skin's natural oils, leading to tightness, flakiness, or irritation, especially for those with dry or sensitive skin.
Potential contaminant concern
As an ethoxylated ingredient, it may contain trace levels of 1,4-dioxane, a possible carcinogen, though reputable manufacturers purify it to safe levels.
Best for
- People with oily or normal skin who enjoy a foamy cleanser
- Those looking for an affordable, effective shampoo for oily hair
Use caution if
- Individuals with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin
- Anyone seeking a sulfate-free or ultra-gentle cleansing routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for rinse-off products at typical concentrations, but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed it safe when formulated to avoid contamination with 1,4-dioxane.
Research notes
Multiple studies confirm its effectiveness as a surfactant and its potential for skin irritation at high concentrations. The CIR expert panel reviewed data and concluded it is safe for cosmetic use under current practices.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 5–15% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and EU CosIng database, with concentration limits in leave-on products typically below 1%.
- Common uses
- Shampoos, Body washes, Facial cleansers, Shower gels
- Environmental note
- Sourced from palm or coconut oil, its production may contribute to deforestation unless certified sustainable. It is biodegradable but can be toxic to aquatic life at high concentrations.
Good to know
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate is often used in professional salon shampoos because it produces a dense foam that feels luxurious.
- It is slightly less irritating than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) but more so than milder surfactants like coco-glucoside.
Common questions
What is Ammonium Laureth Sulfate in beauty products?
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES) is a detergent-like ingredient that helps shampoos and body washes lather up and remove dirt and oil. It is similar to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) but is often considered slightly milder because it is derived from a gentler chemical process. However, it can still be drying or irritating for sensitive skin, especially with frequent use.
What does Ammonium Laureth Sulfate do in a beauty product?
It works by reducing the surface tension between water and oil, allowing water to mix with sebum and dirt so they can be rinsed away. Its negatively charged head attracts water, while its tail grabs onto oils, lifting impurities off the skin and hair.
Is Ammonium Laureth Sulfate safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for rinse-off products at typical concentrations, but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed it safe when formulated to avoid contamination with 1,4-dioxane.
Who should be careful with Ammonium Laureth Sulfate?
Individuals with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin Anyone seeking a sulfate-free or ultra-gentle cleansing routine
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.