September 18, 2026

Surfactants 101: SLES, CAPB and Milder Alternatives

Almost every shampoo, face wash and hand wash is built around surfactants, the ingredients that lift away oil and dirt and create foam.

SLES (sodium lauryl ether sulphate) is one of the most common primary cleansers because it foams well and is easy to formulate with. CAPB (cocobetaine) is usually added alongside it to boost foam, improve mildness and help thicken the formula.

For gentler formulas, formulators often turn to milder surfactants such as decyl glucoside and lauryl glucoside, or SCI 80 (sodium cocoyl isethionate). Foam boosters such as cocamide-type ingredients help build richness and viscosity.

The best blend depends on the product you want to make. If you are not sure where to start, send us your requirement on WhatsApp.

Ask us on WhatsApp