Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES) Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (White SLES and Faint Yellow SLES), By Application (Detergents and Cleaners, Personal Care Products and Others) and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2031

Updated On: 29 April 2024

SODIUM LAURYL ETHER SULFATE (SLES) MARKET REPORT OVERVIEW

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The global sodium lauryl ether sulfate market size was USD 1044 million in 2019 and will touch USD 1477.5 million by 2026, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.0% during the forecast period.

Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES) is a surfactant, detergent, and emulsifier commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products. It is derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol and is known for its cleansing and foaming properties. SLES is often used in products like shampoos, body washes, soaps, and toothpaste to create lather and help cleanse the skin or hair. However, it can be harsh on the skin and hair for some people, especially those with sensitive skin, and there is some concern about its potential to irritate or dry out the skin with prolonged use.

Product development and market dynamics are being impacted by regulatory changes pertaining to the use of SLES in personal care products, such as limitations on certain formulations or concentrations. In order to maintain compliance and competitiveness in the market, manufacturers are adjusting to these developments. Products that support health and wellbeing are becoming more and more popular, which has prompted the creation of SLES formulations that address certain needs for skin and hair care, like anti-aging, hydration, and defense against environmental stresses.

COVID-19 Impact: Disruption in Supply Chain to Hinder Market Growth

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) market was impacted by the COVID-19 epidemic in a number of ways. The manufacture and delivery of SLES were first hampered by supply chain disruption brought on by lockdowns and travel restrictions. This caused SLES's market price and availability to fluctuate. Moreover, during the pandemic, there were notable shifts in the market for personal care and hygiene products, which are important uses of SLES. Demand for hygienic items like soaps, hand sanitizers, and disinfectants surged, which raised the need for SLES in these goods. However, due to shifts in customer choices and behavior, the market for some cosmetic products—such as shampoos and hair conditioners—which also contain SLES, declined.

LATEST TRENDS

"Product Innovation and Development to Drive Market Growth"

Due to growing consumer awareness and preferences for eco-friendly products, there is a growing demand for natural and sustainable SLES substitutes. In an effort to create sustainable SLES substitutes, manufacturers are looking into bio-based surfactants and green chemistry. Businesses are concentrating on creating novel SLES formulations to meet the demands and preferences of particular customer segments. This contains SLES with improved qualities like conditioning, mildness, and ingredient compatibility. As a result of increased levels of urbanization, disposable incomes, and public awareness of personal cleanliness, the market for SLES is booming in emerging economies. Manufacturers now have the chance to increase their footprint in these areas.

SODIUM LAURYL ETHER SULFATE (SLES) MARKET SEGMENTATION

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By Type

Based on type the global market can be categorized into White SLES and Faint Yellow SLES.

• White SLES: White SLES is a highly purified form of SLES that appears as a white or off-white solid. It is often used in products where color is a critical factor, such as white or light-colored shampoos, soaps, and detergents. White SLES is known for its excellent foaming and cleansing properties.

• Faint Yellow SLES: Faint Yellow SLES, on the other hand, has a slight yellowish tint due to the presence of impurities or unreacted raw materials in the production process. While it is still suitable for use in many personal care and household products, it may not be preferred in applications where color uniformity is important.

By Application

Based on application the global market can be categorized into detergents and cleaners, personal care products and others.

• Detergents and Cleaners: Detergents and cleaners are products designed to remove dirt, stains, and impurities from surfaces such as fabrics, dishes, and household surfaces. They are formulated with surfactants like Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES) to lower the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate and lift away dirt.

• Personal Care Products: Personal care products are products used for personal hygiene and grooming. They include a wide range of items such as soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions, creams, deodorants, and oral care products. These products are formulated to cleanse, moisturize, protect, and enhance the appearance of the skin, hair, and teeth.

DRIVING FACTORS

"Urbanization and Hygiene Awareness to Augment the Market"

Due its superior foaming and cleaning qualities, sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) is frequently used in personal care products like body washes, soaps, and shampoos. The need for SLES is being driven by factors such as changing lifestyles, rising disposable incomes, and an expanding population. SLES is also employed in the manufacturing of dyes, emulsifiers, and other compounds, among other industrial uses. The need for SLES in these applications is being driven by the expansion of sectors such as textiles, paints and coatings, and household cleaning products. The need for personal care products, which in turn drives the demand for SLES, is being driven by urbanization and growing awareness of personal cleanliness.

"Ease of Availability to Expand the Market"

SLES is a cost-effective surfactant compared to other alternatives, making it a preferred choice for manufacturers in various industries. SLES is produced on a large scale and is readily available in the market, making it a convenient choice for manufacturers. SLES is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of formulations, making it suitable for various applications in the personal care and industrial sectors. The sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) market growth has seen some degree of consolidation, with larger companies acquiring smaller players to strengthen their market presence and expand their product portfolios.

RESTRAINING FACTOR

"Environmental Impact to Potentially Impede Market Growth"

SLES can be harsh on the skin and hair, especially in high concentrations or for individuals with sensitive skin. This has led to some concerns regarding its potential to cause skin irritation or dryness, which can restrain its use in certain products or by certain consumers. The production and use of SLES can have environmental impacts, such as the release of pollutants into waterways. This has led to increasing regulatory scrutiny and consumer demand for more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives, which could restrain the market for SLES.

SODIUM LAURYL ETHER SULFATE (SLES) MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

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"North America to Dominate the Market due to Economic Growth"

The market is primarily segregated into Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, North America, and Middle East &Africa

The North American region has a large and growing population, drives the demand for personal care and household products that use SLES. Rapid economic growth in countries has led to increasing disposable incomes, enabling more consumers to purchase personal care and hygiene products. The region's industrial sector, including textiles, paints, and household cleaning products, is expanding, leading to higher demand for SLES in industrial applications. Growing awareness about personal hygiene and the use of personal care products is driving the demand for sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) market share in the region. The region has access to raw materials required for the production of SLES, which helps in maintaining a competitive market.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

"Key Industry Players Shaping the Market through Innovation and Market Expansion"

The market is significantly influenced by key industry players that play a pivotal role in driving market dynamics and shaping consumer preferences. These key players possess extensive retail networks and online platforms, providing consumers with easy access to a wide variety of wardrobe options. Their strong global presence and brand recognition have contributed to increased consumer trust and loyalty, driving product adoption. Moreover, these industry giants continually invest in research and development, introducing innovative designs, materials, and smart features, catering to evolving consumer needs and preferences. The collective efforts of these major players significantly impact the competitive landscape and future trajectory of the market.

List of Market Players Profiled

• Solvay (Belgium)
• Evonik Industries (Germany)
• Croda International (U.K.)
• BASF (Germany)
• Huntsman Corporation (U.S.)

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

February, 2020: Manufacturers have been expanding their production capacities to meet the growing demand for SLES, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific where demand is high. There is a growing emphasis on sustainability in the SLES market, with manufacturers investing in research and development of greener production processes and bio-based alternatives to SLES.

REPORT COVERAGE

The study encompasses a comprehensive SWOT analysis and provides insights into future developments within the market. It examines various factors that contribute to the growth of the market, exploring a wide range of market categories and potential applications that may impact its trajectory in the coming years. The analysis takes into account both current trends and historical turning points, providing a holistic understanding of the market's components and identifying potential areas for growth.

The research report delves into market segmentation, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods to provide a thorough analysis. It also evaluates the impact of financial and strategic perspectives on the market. Furthermore, the report presents national and regional assessments, considering the dominant forces of supply and demand that influence market growth. The competitive landscape is meticulously detailed, including market shares of significant competitors. The report incorporates novel research methodologies and player strategies tailored for the anticipated timeframe. Overall, it offers valuable and comprehensive insights into the market dynamics in a formal and easily understandable manner.