Sulfates are most commonly used as cleansing agents in cosmetics.
Known as an anionic surfactant, they create a lather and bind with dirt and impurities on the skin making them easier to remove. The sulfates most commonly seen in skincare are sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). Sulfates have had bad press over the years, mostly unjustified, though SLS can be drying and sensitizing. However, for many people, most sulfates are often well-tolerated when used as directed.
