Is Ammonium Laureth Sulfate Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Ammonium Laureth Sulfate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (surfactant).
INCI name AMMONIUM LAURETH SULFATE. Also called ALES. CAS 32612-48-9.
Other names: ALES, Ammonium Lauryl Ether Sulfate
Is Ammonium Laureth Sulfate banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | TRESemmé Moisture Rich Shampoo, Garnier Fructis Fortifying Shampoo, VO5 Herbal Escapes Shampoo |
| CAS number | 32612-48-9 |
What is Ammonium Laureth Sulfate?
Ammonium laureth sulfate is an anionic surfactant very similar in structure to SLES but uses an ammonium counterion instead of sodium. It produces abundant foam and provides excellent conditioning to the hair shaft during washing.
Why is Ammonium Laureth Sulfate used in personal-care products?
ALES is favored in shampoos and some body washes for its slightly lower viscosity compared to SLES, which can make formulation easier. It also leaves hair with a softer feel post-rinse.
Is Ammonium Laureth Sulfate dangerous? Documented risks
Ammonium laureth sulfate shares a similar safety profile to SLES. The CIR has concluded it is safe for cosmetic use. Like SLES, it may contain trace 1,4-dioxane from ethoxylation, addressed by standard manufacturing controls. It is not a carcinogen or endocrine disruptor. Mild skin irritation is possible in sensitive individuals at high concentrations but is not a concern at typical use levels in rinse-off products.
Products that may contain Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
How to avoid Ammonium Laureth Sulfate: safer alternatives
Cocamidopropyl betaine or coco-glucoside are suitable alternatives for those seeking sulfate-free shampoos with comparable cleansing.
Frequently asked questions about Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
Is ammonium laureth sulfate safe?
Yes. At cosmetic use levels, ALES is safe and well-tolerated by most people. Those with a sulfate sensitivity may prefer glucoside-based surfactants.
Is ALES the same as SLES?
They are structurally very similar — both are ethoxylated lauryl sulfates — but ALES uses an ammonium ion while SLES uses sodium. Their cleansing and safety profiles are essentially identical.
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Sources
- CIR Safety Assessment of Ammonium Laureth Sulfate — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: Ammonium Laureth Sulfate — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.