The facts: Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Aussie Miracle Moist Shampoo, Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoo.
TL;DR: Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Aussie Miracle Moist Shampoo, Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoo |
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.
Used as a primary surfactant in shampoos and cleansers for its powerful lather and oil-removing properties.
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.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Aussie Miracle Moist Shampoo, Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoo. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate.
Sodium cocoyl isethionate or decyl glucoside for a gentler, non-sulfate option. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
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Audited products that don't contain Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate.
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