Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS), also known as Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate (SDS), is an anionic surfactant widely used as a cleansing and foaming agent. It is a white to cream-coloured powder or needle-shaped crystals, highly soluble in water. SLS works by lowering surface tension between ingredients, which is why it produces rich lather in shampoos, toothpastes, and detergents. It is also used as an emulsifier and wetting agent in industrial and agricultural applications.