Ingredient transparency: What makes Lunette’s cup cleanser so gentle?
Are you the kind of person who flips every label and googles every ingredient? We love that for you. Curiosity is power, especially when it comes to what touches your skin and your sacred menstrual cup. So let’s break down the science behind our Lunette Cup Cleanser, and the surfactants we use specifically Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS) and why we don’t use Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS).
What are ALS and SLS anyway?
Both ALS and SLS are anionic surfactants - fancy speak for ingredients that help water mix with oil and dirt so they can be rinsed away. They’re the reason your shampoo foams and your cleanser actually cleans. But while their names sound similar, their molecular structures are different, and that matters.
- SLS is derived from sodium
- ALS is derived from ammonium
- Both are biodegradable and effective, but ALS is less irritating to skin.
Are ALS and SLS safe?
Let’s bust some myths. SLS has been accused of being carcinogenic, but there’s no scientific evidence to support that claim. In fact, both ALS and SLS are approved for use in cosmetics under strict EU regulations.
That said, SLS is more likely to irritate skin and eyes, especially in high concentrations or with prolonged contact. ALS, on the other hand, has a larger molecular structure, which means it doesn’t penetrate the skin as deeply and is less likely to cause irritation.
In the "Cosmetic Ingredients Review", shampoos with up to 31% ALS had only six complaints out of 6.8 million units sold. That’s a pretty solid safety record.
Why not use “soft” surfactants like glucosides?
We get it - “gentle” sounds great. But here’s the tea:
- Glucosides (like Coco Glucoside or Lauryl Glucoside) foam less and are harder to thicken
- Natural thickeners like xanthan gum can leave a sticky residue on your skin and cup
- ALS creates rich foam, rinses clean, and doesn’t need sticky thickeners
So while glucosides are trendy, they’re not always practical, especially when you want your cup squeaky clean without the sticky aftermath.
Why we chose ALS (and cocamidopropyl betaine)
Our Cup Cleanser uses ALS for its effective cleansing power and low irritation profile. It’s recognized by allergy and asthma organizations and leaves zero residue on your cup. We pair it with cocamidopropyl betaine, a surfactant often used in natural cosmetics, for extra gentleness.
And no artificial fragrances here – just lemon and eucalyptus oils, chosen for their purifying properties and fresh scent.
Science doesn’t have to be scary. ALS is a safe, effective, and skin-friendly surfactant that helps keep your Lunette Cup clean without compromise. If you’re ingredient-curious (and we hope you are), we’re always here to break it down for you - no jargon, just facts.
This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical or dermatological advice. If you have concerns about skin sensitivity, allergies, or product ingredients, please consult a qualified healthcare provider or dermatologist. Every body is unique, and personalized guidance is essential for safe care.
photo: courtesy of Pinterest
