SLS Free Toothpaste: Toothpaste can simply be overlooked while shopping and most often we buy the same product twice or more in a row. Apart from shiny flecks and different colors, there are more commonalities to toothpaste and the expectations most people share.
What most people ignore is that these products contain some questionable ingredients, like SLS & Fluoride. These two ingredients are crucial for toothpaste performance, however, both are linked to health & environmental concerns.
Many toothpastes contain sodium lauryl sulfate which is generally known as SLS. This common ingredient creates foam when you brush, but can also irritate sensitive teeth and gums. Here are some of the best SLS-free toothpaste that offers a variety of oral care benefits to suit your needs, including tooth whitening, tartar control, and fresh breath.
What is SLS?
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is the sodium salt of lauryl sulfate. This typically appears as a white or cream-colored crystal or powder. SLS may also be called sodium dodecyl sulfate; dodecyl sulfate, sodium salt; and sodium n-dodecyl sulfate.
Sodium lauryl sulfate is frequently confused with sodium Laureth sulfate, however, remember that these two are distinct ingredients.
What does SLS-Free Toothpaste do?
Sodium lauryl sulfate is frequently used as a surfactant or foaming agent. SLS may also serve as an emulsifier, helping oil-based and water-based ingredients to stay mixed.
Generally, in most toothpastes SLS is used as a surfactant and helps to properly disperse the ingredients during brushing. Apart from that, it ensures easy rinsing and removal of food particles.
SLS Misconceptions
At first glance, you make take SLS as a chemical compound which you may consider artificial concoction. Although sodium lauryl sulfate can be derived from petroleum, the SLS that’s used in toothpaste can also be sourced from a number of natural alternatives including palm and coconut oils.
Most people confuse sodium lauryl sulfate with its sister compound, sodium laureth sulfate (sles), which is also frequently used for foaming in toothpaste, shampoos, body washes, and face washes. However, just remember that the products which claim as SLS free toothpaste are usually free of both compounds.
Why use SLS free toothpaste?
The fact is that most people don’t feel any side effects of toothpaste having SLS and for them, it’s fine to use those toothpastes. However, if you are one of those who experience irritation in mouth then its time to use SLS free toothpaste.
Furthermore, some people experience allergic reactions in their mouths because of the SLS and may feel uncomfortable. Apart from that their tongue may start to have a weird texture and in that scenario, it’s better to stick with SLS free toothpaste.
SLS Free Toothpaste
People often consider foam amounts with the quality of toothpaste but that’s not the case at all. Yes, that’s a misconception that the more foam, the more effective the toothpaste.
Studies have shown that there is no need for the foam to get a perfect brush to all the corners. So that means toothpaste can be effective without having SLS in it. Here are some of the best SLS free toothpaste that will definitely give you a cleaner mouth without having the tension of irritation.
1. Verve Ultra SLS-Free Toothpaste with Fluoride
$7.99
If you’ve experienced mouth irritation then this SLS-free toothpaste is the best pick for you. Not only is it free of sodium lauryl sulfate, but it’s formulated with vitamin E to help reduce gum inflation, and fluoride to prevent tooth decay.
Verve, premium toothpaste without Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, is enriched with vitamin E and formulated for everyday use. Verve’s gentle whitening, fluoride formulation fights cavities and effectively cleans and removes surface stains.
Verve is the ideal toothpaste for people who suffer from canker sores. This toothpaste has a soothing, fresh mint taste that reviewers love, and comes in a 4.5-ounce tube for just $8. And, to top it all off, fans who have tried other toothpaste on this roundup praise this option as the most helpful in clearing up painful canker sores.
2. Tom’s Best SLS Free Toothpaste without Fluoride
$11.06
Tom’s Of Maine SLS free toothpaste is one of the best alternatives if you’re trying to avoid fluoride in addition to sulfates. Its “botanical” formula includes natural ingredients like bee propolis to whiten and protect your teeth.
It removes plaque and freshens your breath. With xylitol & propolis and the fresh flavor of peppermint. While fluoride-free toothpaste doesn’t protect quite as well against tooth decay as formulas with the active ingredient, fans still praise Tom’s as effective at both whitening and protecting against canker sores.
3. Davids Natural SLS Free Toothpaste
$9.95
Davids is a premium natural toothpaste, made in California, with a focus on sustainability. Davids uses naturally sourced and naturally derived ingredients to safely & effectively whiten teeth, reduce plaque, and freshen breath.
Naturally derived abrasives assist with the brushing action to help remove surface stains creating whiter teeth and a clean and healthy mouth. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is used to neutralize acids, promoting good oral hygiene. Premium mint oil from various mint growing regions across the USA are blended together to create an amazing mint flavor and freshen breath.
Davids was awarded the EWG VERIFIED certification by the Environmental working group for clean and safe ingredients. Davids went out of their way to use 98% USA Origin Ingredients to produce the highest quality toothpaste possible and to support USA jobs! Discover why so many people are switching to Davids!
The Bottom Line
While SLS and SLS-free toothpaste both are equally effective options for brushing away bacteria and food particles and keeping your teeth clean, it’s better to stick with SLS free toothpaste if you have issues with it. As SLS isn’t a priority ingredient, it can be easily swiped with the most natural alternatives.
Disclosure: Bear in mind that some of the links in this post are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase then this blog may receive a commission. Although we receive a commission for using and linking affiliate products, they are extremely good and all our opinion and suggestions are unbiased.
