Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES) is an anionic surfactant with the chemical formula C14H29NaO5S. It is mostly used in many personal care products like shampoo, toothpaste, hand wash, and cosmetics. SLES has excellent solubility, foaming, wettability, and emulsifying capability. Plus, it is cheap and highly efficient for producing personal care products.
The global SLES market is segmented by form (dry, liquid), by application (detergents and cleaners, personal care, textile and leather, others), and by Region (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa). The SLES market growth is due to the increasing demand for anionic surfactants with unique properties for use in personal care products, such as anti-ageing and sun protection products.
SLES specifications
Sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) is a yellow-white solid or powder. The appearance can vary slightly depending on the manufacturing process and the specific grade of SLES. SLES is an anionic detergent, which means it helps to remove dirt and oil from surfaces and create a foaming effect. It also acts as a wetting agent and emulsifier in many formulations.
| SLES specifications | |
| CAS No. | 9004-82-4 |
| HS Code | 340211 |
| Packaging | Bag |
SLES market
The global SLES market was valued at USD 1100 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2022 to 2030. Consumer awareness about personal hygiene, health benefits of residential as well as institutional cleanliness, rising production of personal care products such as soaps and shampoos, are some main factors that boost the market demand of the global sodium lauryl ether sulfate market.
Asia pacific accounted for a major share of the global sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) market in 2022 and this trend is projected to continue during the forecast period.
SLES market, by application
The detergents & cleaners segment accounted for the largest market share in 2022 and is projected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2022 to 2030. SLES is widely accessible and has a stain-removing ability, making it a suitable component among detergent producers. On the basis of application, the SLES industry has been segmented into:
- Detergents and cleaners
- Personal care
- Textiles and leather
- Others
SLES market, by form
In developed countries, liquid detergents due to their superior cleaning capabilities and ease of use are preferred and provide opportunities for the SLES Market. Based on form, the SLES industry has been segmented into:
- Dry
- Liquid
SLES market, by region
Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share in 2022 and is projected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. Due to the increasing demand for personal care products including soaps, detergents and other cleaning goods, particularly laundry detergents, the consumption of SLES is increasing in this region. Based on geography, the global Sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) market has been segmented into:
- North America
- Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Middle East and Africa
- Latin America
SLES market drivers
Some of the key drivers of the Sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) market include:
- Personal care industry: SLES is widely used in the personal care and cosmetics industry as a surfactant and foaming agent in products such as shampoos, toothpaste, and soaps. The growth of the personal care industry is related to factors like increasing population and changing consumer preferences for hygiene products.
- Cleaning products: SLES is also used in various cleaning products, including laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, and surface cleaners. The growth of the cleaning and household products market, influenced by factors such as urbanization, changing lifestyles, and increased focus on hygiene, contributes to the demand for SLES.
- Performance and cost-effectiveness: SLES is preferred by manufacturers due to its effectiveness as a surfactant, its ability to create a rich foam, and its cost-effectiveness compared to other surfactants. Its compatibility with various formulations and desirable cleaning properties make it a suitable choice for many applications.
These market drivers, along with the product innovation and development by manufacturers, contribute to the growth and demand for sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) in various industries.
SLES market opportunities
Sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) is mostly used in many personal care products like shampoo, toothpaste, and cosmetics. Plus, it is used in cleaning products like laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, and surface cleaners. Some market opportunities for SLES during 2022-2030 include:
- Growth of the personal care industry and green cleaning products.
- Industrial applications such as textiles, paints, and coatings.
- Development of new applications for SLES.
FAQ
How is the SLES industry expected to grow by 2030?
The global SLES market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2022 to 2030.
Which region is leading as a consumer of the global SLES market?
Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share in 2022 and is projected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. Due to the increasing demand for personal care products such as soaps, shampoos and other cleaning goods, the consumption of SLES is increasing in this region.
What are the SLES market drivers?
Key drivers of the Sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) market include the personal care industry, cleaning products, cost-effectiveness and good performance of this product.