What Is SLS and Why Is It Bad in Toothpaste?

The Ingredient That Might Be Harming Your Smile

Ever noticed a foamy lather when brushing your teeth? That’s often thanks to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)—an ingredient found in many toothpaste brands. While this foaming agent might feel satisfying, its effects on your oral health might surprise you. If you've ever experienced mouth irritation, canker sores, or a dry mouth after brushing, SLS could be the culprit.

Let’s dive into what SLS is, why it’s in toothpaste, and why Duo Toothpaste chooses to leave it out.

What Is SLS?

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant, meaning it reduces surface tension, helping water mix with oils and dirt for easier removal. It’s widely used in household products like shampoo, dish soap, and—you guessed it—toothpaste. In toothpaste, SLS is included to create foam, which helps spread the paste across your teeth.

But here’s the catch: while SLS might make brushing feel more effective, it can come with some less-than-ideal side effects, especially for those with sensitive mouths or oral conditions.

Why Is SLS Bad for Your Oral Health?

1. Irritates Sensitive Mouths
   SLS is known for its harshness, which can irritate the delicate tissues inside your mouth. This irritation can lead to dryness, redness, and discomfort for people with sensitive mouths.

2. Linked to Canker Sores
   Studies have shown that SLS can increase the frequency and severity of canker sores, painful ulcers inside the mouth. This is because SLS strips the protective layer of mucus in your mouth, leaving it vulnerable to irritants.

3. Disrupts the Oral Microbiome
   Your mouth is home to a delicate ecosystem of bacteria known as the oral microbiome. SLS has antimicrobial properties that, while effective at killing bad bacteria, also disrupt the good bacteria that support gum health and prevent bad breath.

4. Causes Dry Mouth
   By stripping away natural oils, SLS can lead to dry mouth—a condition that reduces saliva flow and creates an ideal environment for cavities and bad breath.

Perspective of a Dentist

Dr. Stevie Roberts, a general dentist, explains:
“Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is widely used in oral care products, but it’s not always the best choice for every patient. Individuals with sensitive mouths or frequent canker sores may benefit from switching to an SLS-free toothpaste. Maintaining oral health is about protecting the natural balance in your mouth, not disrupting it with harsh chemicals.”

Why Does Duo Toothpaste Avoid SLS?

At Duo Toothpaste, we’re committed to elevating oral care while being gentle on your mouth and the planet. That’s why our formulations are SLS-free. Instead of relying on harsh foaming agents, Duo uses gentle, natural alternatives that clean effectively without irritation.

Here’s what makes Duo different:

• Natural Ingredients: We prioritize clean, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for sensitive mouths.
• Microbiome-Friendly: Our toothpaste supports your oral microbiome, encouraging a balanced environment that promotes long-term oral health.
• Eco-Friendly Packaging: As part of our mission to protect your health and the planet, Duo toothpaste is packaged in sustainable materials, reducing plastic waste.

The Duo Difference

If you’re tired of toothpaste that leaves your mouth dry, irritated, or prone to sores, it’s time to try something better. Duo Toothpaste combines science-backed ingredients, like nano-Hydroxyapatite (nHA), with a gentle, SLS-free formula to strengthen enamel, reduce sensitivity, and support your overall oral health.

Duo’s innovative approach ensures that your daily brushing routine is effective, gentle, and sustainable.

Ready for a Better Brushing Experience?

Make the switch to an SLS-free toothpaste that prioritizes your health and comfort. Explore Duo Toothpaste’s innovative formulations here and discover why our customers love the difference.