What are sulphates?
Sulphates are ingredients that create the foaming effect of shampoos and shower gels for example and that help rid the skin and hair of soiling.
To identify them in our products, take a look at the ingredients list on packaging. They can be found under names such as SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (SLS), SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE (SLES), AMMONIUM LAURYL SULFATE. The most commonly used ones are SLS and SLES.
Where do they come from?
In cosmetics, sulphates are of synthetic origin.
Sulphates are ingredients synthesized in the laboratory from fatty alcohol. We only use fatty alcohols of vegetable origin.
What are they used for?
Sulphates are used in cosmetic products such as shower gels, exfoliants, shampoos, conditioners, facial cleansing gels, liquid hand soaps, personal hygiene products, toothpastes, thanks to their benefits. They are cleaning, foaming and easy to rince. They leave a clean sensation.
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Cleaning and foaming agent
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Easy to rinse
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Clean sensation
Why are they questioned?
Sulphates are accused of causing irritation or dryness. They are said to remove part of the protective hydrolipidic film naturally present on skin and scalp. Sulphates can also sting when in contact with the eyes.
Lastly, the supply of fatty-chain alcohols, which are at the origin of sulphates, is questioned as they could be derived from palm oil. The methods of obtaining certain sulphates can have an environmental impact.
Facts:
- Sulphates, which are used in rinse-off products, do not persist in the environment.
- Because we only use them in products that are rinsed with water, the risks of irritation are low.
Why and how do we use them?
Sulphates are used at an appropriate concentration to ensure the efficiency of our products without any compromise on skin or scalp tolerance.
Sulphates, especially sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), have been used safely in our shampoos since 1930.
We only use sulphates in our rinse-off products. These products can be used without any fear of skin or scalp irritation as the contact with the skin is very short.
We offer products specifically for sensitive skin that are labeled as such. To meet the expectations of certain consumers, we also offer sulphate-free formulas.
We guarantee a sustainable supply of our sulphates and favor the use of those that have a lower environmental impact. We try to propose formulas that are as biodegradable as possible (> 90%) and also use a selection of softer sulphates, even naturally-derived ones.
