What’s Really in Our Soap? The Truth About SLS & SLES in Bioworx® Natural Auto Soap

At Bioworx®, we believe transparency builds trust. As more people take a closer look at what’s inside the products they use every day, questions naturally arise about certain ingredients—especially ones with long, scientific names like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES).

Yes, Bioworx® Natural Auto Soap contains plant-derived SLS and SLES.

And no, they are not dangerous, nor are they synthetic petrochemicals. In fact, these ingredients are both bio-based, biodegradable, and chosen for one simple reason: they work exceptionally well without compromising safety or environmental integrity.

Let’s clear the foam and dive into the facts.

Why We Use SLS and SLES

When formulating Natural Auto Soap, we had one goal: Create a highly effective, eco-conscious soap that delivers superior cleaning power without relying on petroleum-derived or overly harsh ingredients.

To achieve this, we turned to plant-based surfactants like SLS and SLES—both of which are derived from coconut oil in our formula.

These ingredients:

• Break down grime, oils, and road film with ease

• Provide that smooth, satisfying foam and glide for safe surface cleaning

• Rinse clean without streaking or residue

• Are readily biodegradable, unlike many industrial surfactants

Myth #1: SLS/SLES Are “Toxic”

Truth: They’re Safe and Plant-Derived in Our Formula

SLS and SLES have gotten a bad reputation online, often labeled as "toxic" or “harsh chemicals.” But the source and concentration matter more than the name.

In our case, both SLS and SLES are sustainably derived from coconut oil, not petroleum.

More importantly, they’ve been thoroughly studied by organizations like the FDA and Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), and consistently found to be non-carcinogenic, non-toxic, and biodegradable when used as formulated in rinse-off products.

Myth #2: These Ingredients Are Harsh on Skin or Paint

Truth: Not in a Properly Formulated Soap Like Ours

Sure, at high concentrations and without balancing ingredients, SLS and SLES can cause dryness. But in Bioworx® Natural Auto Soap, we’ve done the opposite.

Our formulation includes:

• Diluted, balanced concentrations safe for painted surfaces, clear coats, and skin

• Natural moisturizers such as Jojoba and Aloe to prevent cracking in the skin

• A pH-balanced formula that’s gentle yet effective

And remember: This is a rinse-off product. It doesn’t stay on your car—or your hands.

Myth #3: Natural Products Shouldn’t Contain Ingredients Like This

 Truth: "Natural" and "Effective" Don’t Have to Be Opposites

Let’s be clear—Bioworx® Natural Auto Soap is not about greenwashing. It's about combining the best of plant science and chemistry to create a product that’s clean, conscious, and performs under pressure.

SLS and SLES aren’t just found in auto care—they’re widely used (safely) in:

• Baby shampoos

• Toothpaste

• Eco-labeled dish soap

• Natural body wash brands

When you see them in Bioworx®, they’re bio-based, biodegradable, and responsibly used. Natural doesn’t mean ineffective. And “scientific” doesn’t mean unsafe.

Why This Matters for You

We know there are plenty of products out there that slap “natural” on the label and call it a day. We’re not one of them.

At Bioworx®, we:

• Use USDA BioPreferred® and plant-derived ingredients where it counts

• Avoid petroleum-based fillers and synthetic fragrances

• Are fully transparent about our formulations

• Choose high-performance surfactants that clean thoroughly without environmental compromise

SLS and SLES aren’t the enemy. They’re one reason our soap performs so well with just a few ounces per wash.

If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, please send an email to info@bioworxauto.com