What is the primary function of sodium lauryl sulfate in skincare products?

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is primarily recognized for its role as a surfactant in skincare products, particularly in cleansers. Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension between different substances, allowing for better mixing and interaction. In the context of cleansers, SLS helps emulsify oils and water, effectively allowing dirt, oil, and impurities to be lifted away from the skin and rinsed off.

This makes SLS particularly effective in formulations like shampoos and facial cleansers, where the goal is to achieve a thorough cleansing effect. While SLS can provide foaming action, its primary contribution lies in its ability to enhance the cleaning capabilities of a product.

The other options do not accurately depict the role of sodium lauryl sulfate: it is not a moisturizer, an antioxidant, or an exfoliant. Moisturizers function to hydrate the skin, antioxidants help protect against free radical damage, and exfoliants work to remove dead skin cells. None of these functions align with the primary purpose of sodium lauryl sulfate in skincare formulations.