Method Foaming Hand Wash, Sweet Water

A robustly cleansing gel hand wash utilizing Sodium Lauryl Sulfate for lather, balanced by soothing botanicals like Aloe and Vitamin E, but containing synthetic fragrance and dyes.

Performance Rating: 4.2

This formulation relies on Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a surfactant known for its high cleansing efficiency and rich lather, ensuring that dirt and oils are effectively removed. The addition of Cocamidopropyl Betaine helps stabilize the foam and mitigate some harshness. Furthermore, Glycerin and Aloe Barbadensis Extract are included to provide hydration and a soothing feel, helping to offset the stripping nature of the primary detergent.

Safety Rating: 3.2

The safety profile is moderate. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a strong cleanser that can be irritating or drying to the skin with frequent use, unlike milder sulfonates or glucosides. The product also lists generic Fragrance, a common source of allergens and sensitization, as well as a synthetic dye (External Violet 2). On the positive side, the preservatives used (Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Benzoate) are generally considered milder and safer than parabens or formaldehyde releasers.

Final Rating: 3.6

This is a functional and effective hand wash that prioritizes cleansing power through a standard sulfate-based formula. While it cleanses well, the presence of SLS and Fragrance suggests it may be too drying for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema. The inclusion of Vitamin E and Aloe elevates it slightly above basic bulk soaps, but it lacks the gentle, modern surfactant systems found in higher-rated ‘clean’ beauty products.

Verdict

This hand wash formulation represents a very standard approach to modern hygiene, utilizing a classic surfactant system to ensure thorough cleaning. At the heart of the formula is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a highly effective cleansing agent known for its ability to cut through grease and create a rich lather. While SLS is exceptional at removing dirt, it has a reputation for being somewhat drying to the skin if used excessively. To counterbalance this, the formulation includes Cocamidopropyl Betaine, a milder amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil. This ingredient not only boosts foam production but also helps to mitigate the potential harshness of the primary detergent, making the washing experience slightly gentler on the hands. Recognizing that frequent washing can strip the skin’s natural barrier, the inclusion of Glycerin is a welcome addition. As a humectant, Glycerin draws moisture into the skin, preventing that tight, dry feeling often associated with gel hand soaps. The formula is further enriched with Aloe Barbadensis Extract and Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E). These botanical and vitamin additives are classic skin-soothing agents intended to provide a soft after-feel, although their concentration in a wash-off product limits their long-term therapeutic impact compared to a leave-on lotion. The preservation system relies on Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Benzoate, both of which are commonly used in food and cosmetics and are generally considered safe and effective alternatives to controversial parabens or formaldehyde releasers. Citric Acid and Sodium Citrate work in tandem as pH adjusters to ensure the product remains stable and skin-compatible. However, users should be aware of the sensory additives. The product contains synthetic Fragrance (Parfum) and External Violet 2, a cosmetic dye. While these enhance the user experience by making the product look and smell appealing, they offer no functional cleansing benefit. For individuals with compromised skin barriers or specific allergies, these additives can sometimes act as sensitizers. Consequently, while this hand wash is a robust daily cleanser suitable for removing grime, it may not be the ideal choice for those with eczema or extreme chemical sensitivities who require a fragrance-free, sulfate-free option.

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Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Surfactants (Cleansing Agents) / 表面活性剂(清洁剂)

🧪 SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE / 十二烷基硫酸钠

Purpose: Primary surfactant, cleansing agent, foam producer.

Concerns: Can be drying or irritating to the skin and eyes; strong degreasing ability may strip natural oils.

Notes: A strong anionic surfactant.

🧪 COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE / 椰油酰胺丙基甜菜碱

Purpose: Secondary surfactant, foam booster, mild cleansing agent.

Concerns: Generally mild, but impurities can cause allergic reactions in sensitized individuals.

Notes: Derived from coconut oil; helps reduce irritation from harsher surfactants like SLS.

📁 Moisturizers & Skin Conditioners / 保湿剂和皮肤调理剂

🧪 GLYCERIN / 甘油

Purpose: Humectant, attracts moisture to the skin.

Concerns: None generally; safe and effective.

Notes: Helps prevent hands from drying out.

🧪 ALOE BARBADENSIS EXTRACT / 库拉索芦荟提取物

Purpose: Soothing agent, moisturizer.

Concerns: None generally.

Notes: Plant-derived ingredient known for skin-calming properties.

🧪 TOCOPHERYL ACETATE / 生育酚乙酸酯

Purpose: Antioxidant, skin conditioning.

Concerns: Low risk; generally safe.

Notes: A form of Vitamin E.

📁 Functional Ingredients (Solvents, Texture, pH) / 功能性成分(溶剂、质地、酸碱度)

🧪 WATER (EAU) / 水

Purpose: Solvent base for the formula.

Concerns: None.

Notes: The main carrier ingredient.

🧪 SODIUM CHLORIDE / 氯化钠

Purpose: Viscosity increasing agent (thickener).

Concerns: Can be drying in very high concentrations.

Notes: Common salt.

🧪 CITRIC ACID / 柠檬酸

Purpose: pH adjuster.

Concerns: May cause mild irritation if pH is too low (unlikely in finished product).

Notes: Derived from citrus fruits.

🧪 SODIUM CITRATE / 柠檬酸钠

Purpose: pH buffer.

Concerns: None generally.

Notes: Helps maintain the pH stability of the product.

🧪 POLYSORBATE 20 / 聚山梨酯-20

Purpose: Emulsifier, solubilizer.

Concerns: Low risk; enables oil-based ingredients (like fragrance) to mix with water.

Notes: Mild non-ionic surfactant.

📁 Preservatives / 防腐剂

🧪 POTASSIUM SORBATE / 山梨酸钾

Purpose: Preservative (antifungal).

Concerns: Rare potential for skin irritation.

Notes: Food-grade preservative often used in cosmetics.

🧪 SODIUM BENZOATE / 苯甲酸钠

Purpose: Preservative (antifungal/antibacterial).

Concerns: May cause sensitization in some individuals.

Notes: Effective in acidic environments.

📁 Aesthetics (Fragrance & Color) / 感官添加剂(香精和色素)

🧪 FRAGRANCE (PARFUM) / 香精

Purpose: Provides scent.

Concerns: A common cause of contact dermatitis and allergies; specific composition is undisclosed.

Notes: Adds a pleasant smell to the product.

🧪 External Violet 2 (CI 60730) / CI 60730 (外用紫2号)

Purpose: Colorant (Violet dye).

Concerns: Synthetic dye; strictly regulated for external use only.

Notes: Gives the product its purple/violet hue.