Have you ever flipped over a shampoo bottle and seen “SLS” or “SLES” and wondered whether it’s safe?
At Roots Pharm, we chose Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate (SLSA) for our shampoo bars—and here’s the inside scoop on why that matters.
Let’s break it down, so you can feel confident when you lather up with a Roots Pharm Shampoo Bar.
Meet SLSA: The Gentle Surfactant (Not “That Harsh Sulfate”)
SLSA is a surfactant (a cleansing molecule) used to help remove oils, dirt, and buildup from hair and skin. But unlike SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) or SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate), it’s considered safe, gentle, and non-irritating.
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The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Panel affirms that SLSA is safe for use in cosmetics at appropriate concentrations. Cosmetic Ingredient Review+1
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On EWG’s Skin Deep, SLSA is rated with low concern for cancer, allergies, and reproductive toxicity. EWG
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One of the advantages is that SLSA has a larger molecular size than harsh sulfates, which means it doesn’t penetrate into skin cells, making it less irritating. starchem
In short: SLSA gives you a clean, foamy lather— without the risks and drama.
What’s Wrong with SLS & SLES?
To understand why SLSA is a better alternative, it helps to see what makes SLS and SLES problematic in many formulations.
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Irritation risk: SLS is well-documented to be a skin irritant, particularly in higher concentrations or with longer exposure. Faculty of Medicine+1
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Penetration and stripping: Because SLS is smaller in molecular size, it can strip skin oils more aggressively—leading to dryness, flaking, and sensitivity.
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Contamination worries: SLES, due to its manufacturing process (it involves ethoxylation), can carry trace impurities like 1,4-dioxane, which is flagged as a possible carcinogen. David Suzuki Foundation
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Not always “sulfate-free”: Many products labeled “sulfate-free” simply swap one harsh sulfate for another—not always a clean fix.
Thus, many people with sensitive scalps, eczema, or delicate skin often find SLS or SLES–based shampoos irritating or uncomfortable.
Why Our Formula Stands Out (SLSA + Careful Crafting)
At Roots Pharm, we didn’t just pick SLSA and call it a day—our formula is built around it.
What makes our shampoo bars safer and more balanced:
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🌿 Low-to-moderate SLSA concentration — enough to clean, not strip
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🍃 Natural oils and butters (like shea, coconut, olive) that restore moisture
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🛡 pH-balanced formula to maintain scalp health
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🧴 Thorough rinse-ability — SLSA is water-soluble and easier to rinse off
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🚫 No hidden toxins or rough co-ingredients that raise irritation risk
Because SLSA is less penetrating, less harsh, and more skin-friendly, our Shampoo Bars deliver a satisfying cleanse without causing scalp distress. If your hair or scalp has been screaming for kindness, this is a gentle reset.
How to Use SLSA Shampoo Bars (Tips for Best Experience)
To get the most out of your SLSA-based shampoo bar—and avoid common pitfalls—here are a few friendly tips:
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Wet your hair thoroughly first. A well-drenched scalp helps the bar glide smoothly.
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Rub the bar directly against your scalp once hair and bar are both thoroughly wet, and apply to roots first. Use a gentle massaging motion.
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Let the lather run down your lengths to clean without over-scrubbing.
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Rinse thoroughly and follow with our Conditioner Bar
Conclusion: Clean, Kind, and Confident Hair Care
Your hair deserves a cleanser that’s effective, not aggressive. Using SLSA instead of harsh sulfates lets us build formulas that cleanse without compromise.
Life’s too short for bad lather and irritated scalps—soap smarter, not harder.
Thanks for trusting Roots Pharm to care for your hair (and your skin) with integrity and love.