Is Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (surfactant).
INCI name AMMONIUM LAURYL SULFATE. Also called ALS. CAS 2235-54-3.
Other names: ALS
Is Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Aussie Miracle Moist Shampoo, Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoo |
| CAS number | 2235-54-3 |
What is Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate?
Ammonium lauryl sulfate is an anionic surfactant analogous to SLS but with an ammonium cation. It provides strong foaming and cleansing. It is slightly more water-soluble than SLS.
Why is Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate used in personal-care products?
Used as a primary surfactant in shampoos and cleansers for its powerful lather and oil-removing properties.
Is Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate dangerous? Documented risks
ALS is slightly more irritating than ALES and comparable to SLS at equivalent concentrations. At typical shampoo concentrations (2–10%), it is considered safe by the CIR. It is not carcinogenic, not a hormone disruptor, and does not accumulate in body tissues. Prolonged skin contact at high concentrations can cause irritation; this is not a concern in rinse-off applications.
Products that may contain Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Cheerios Whole Grain Oat CerealCheerios
- grape-nuts cerealPost
- Toasted Whole Grain Oat CerealCheerios
- Organic Ketchup UnsweetenedPrimal Kitchen
- Multi Grain CheeriosCheerios
- Oven Toasted Rice CerealRice Chex
- Kellogg's Frosted Flakes CerealKellogg's
- Chicken Margherita with BalsamicHealthy Choice CAFÉ STEAMERS
How to avoid Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate: safer alternatives
Sodium cocoyl isethionate or decyl glucoside for a gentler, non-sulfate option.
Frequently asked questions about Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
Is ALS worse than SLS?
They have comparable irritation profiles. ALS is slightly more soluble in water, but both are anionic sulfate surfactants with similar safety profiles at cosmetic use concentrations.
Is ALS banned anywhere?
No. Ammonium lauryl sulfate is permitted in cosmetics in the US, EU, Canada, and most global markets without restriction.
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Sources
- Final Report: Safety of Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.