BellaOnline Forums Hobbies and Crafts Soapmaking Sodium Laureth Sulfate

I am new to this forum and to soapmaking, so far just making soaps for family at Christmas time from MP and CP soap bases. I have done quite a bit of reading and have read a lot of conflicting info regarding SLES in soaps. I am under the impression that using SLES in soaps can cause dryness in skin or leave a damaging buildup. Is this true or another myth? Thank you for any clarification!

We're an SLS free house as we believe it's harmful. I agree, though, that the info is conflicting! For example, Tom's of Maine uses it in their toothpaste while other natural companies absolutely don't use ANY.

I buy my soap base online and have recently been looking for a cheaper company, until I can practice making my own CP soap. 9 out of 10 sites I have looked at (including the supply companies that have been recommended on this forum) use SLES in their MP soap bases. I have only found MAYBE 2-3 companies that dont use it in their base. If anyone can recommend a company that makes a quality, SLES free soap base I would be grateful for their info. I like using CP rebatching base better than Melt and Pour, but either will work. Thanks again for any help!

Courtney

Here's one that's melt and pour:

http://www.newdirectionsaromatics.com/melt-and-pour-soap-base-sls-free-p-604.html

I didn't see any of the other kind but I don't know anything about making soap!