Decyl Glucoside vs Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: which is worse?

What is Decyl Glucoside?

Decyl glucoside is a mild, non-ionic surfactant made by combining glucose (from starch) with decanol (from coconut oil). It belongs to the alkyl polyglucoside (APG) family, which is noted for excellent biodegradability and gentleness.

What is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate?

Sodium lauryl sulfate is an anionic surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol (from coconut or palm oil). It is one of the oldest and most-studied cosmetic surfactants, prized for its powerful foaming and degreasing properties. Unlike SLES, it is not ethoxylated.

Documented risks

Decyl Glucoside: Decyl glucoside is among the safest cosmetic surfactants available. It has an excellent safety profile, with very low irritation and sensitization potential. It is approved for use in certified organic cosmetics (COSMOS, ECOCERT). No carcinogenicity, endocrine disruption, or systemic toxicity concerns have been identified. Rare contact allergic reactions have been documented but are extremely uncommon.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: SLS is safe at cosmetic use concentrations per the CIR Expert Panel. It is more irritating than SLES to skin and mucous membranes, particularly at concentrations above 2% with prolonged contact; this is why most rinse-off products keep it at 1–2% or opt for SLES. It can disrupt the skin barrier transiently, which is why some people with canker sores or eczema avoid SLS toothpastes and cleansers. It is not carcinogenic, not a hormone disruptor, and is not absorbed systemically in meaningful amounts. It biodegrades rapidly in the environment.