If you’ve ever brushed your teeth (a given, we’d hope), you’ll know that most toothpaste foams up as soon as you start brushing. But have you ever stopped mid-brush to wonder: what actually makes toothpaste foam?
Let’s get into it.
The science behind the suds
Toothpaste foam is mainly the work of surfactants – ingredients that help spread the toothpaste around your mouth, and give you that fresh, clean feeling. The most common foaming agent? Sodium lauryl sulphate, or SLS.
What is SLS?
SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate) is a surfactant , most commonly known as a detergent, that creates lather in everything from shampoo to body wash – and yes, toothpaste.
SLS helps makes your toothpaste feel like it's “working.” But here’s the catch: it isn’t necessary for effective cleaning. According to a study published in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene, SLS contributes to improved foaming but doesn’t enhance plaque removal.
The secret about SLS
Sodium lauryl sulphate might be a common ingredient in many toothpastes, but it initially had a different purpose: SLS was originally used in World War II to degrease the engines of fighter jets, because it was abrasive and corrosive enough to remove the toughest grease and grime.
Why is SLS in toothpaste?
The big toothpaste brands love SLS because it’s cheap, creates a satisfying foam, and makes you feel like you’re getting a deeper clean. However, research suggests that SLS can increase the likelihood of mucosal irritation.
Our Formulation Chemist and resident dental expert, Majedeh Mazraei, explains:
“SLS is a common surfactant found in many toothpastes, but research has shown that it can cause irritation to the soft tissue of the mouth, as well as making mouth ulcers worse. SLS-free toothpaste can make a real difference for those with a sensitive mouth, and because it cleans just as well as toothpaste with SLS, there’s no harm in anyone switching to it.”
Do you need foam for a good clean?
In short, no: foam is mostly about the experience rather than the actual cleaning power of your toothpaste. Years of clever marketing from the big toothpaste brands has pushed the idea that a foamy toothpaste equals an effective toothpaste, but this isn’t quite true.
In fact, the real work comes from fluoride (which strengthens enamel) and abrasives (which remove plaque and stains). So, while foamy toothpaste can feel familiar, it’s not a must-have for effective oral care.
The future of smile care
More people are ditching unnecessary chemicals in their daily routine, and toothpaste is no exception. Toothpaste without SLS still cleans brilliantly – just minus the risk of irritation.
So, if you’re ready to rethink your brushing routine, an SLS-free toothpaste might be your next life upgrade. At Life Supplies, our toothpaste is 100% SLS-free. Instead, we’ve formulated ours with gentle surfactants that create a rich, creamy foam and luxurious mouthfeel – without irritating the delicate soft tissues in your mouth.
