Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

These two are common ingredients in toothpaste, soaps, shampoos and many cleaning and cosmetic items.

SLS and SLES are surfactants with the purpose of creating a foaming lather. However, SLS and SLES can cause skin irritation and can aggravate aphthous ulcers. A study by the Department of Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine looked at patients using a toothpaste containing SLS. Over a three month period of use they found significantly more ulcers in the mouth. Switching to a non-SLS toothpaste reduced the number of ulcers dramatically.

SLS and SLES may cause canker sores, mouth ulcers, stomach issues, and cancer so best to avoid it.