Equate Original Scent Clean And Simple Body Wash
Analysis updated October 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This body wash contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate, which can strip natural oils from the skin and may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen. The presence of synthetic fragrance adds to the concerns due to potential skin irritation and undisclosed chemical content. However, it lacks more severe additives like parabens or formaldehyde releasers, which prevents it from scoring lower.
Key ingredients 8
Water (Aqua)Neutral
Water is a common solvent used in many personal care products. It acts as a base for other ingredients to dissolve and mix. It does not have any direct benefits or risks in this context.
Risks
There are no known risks associated with water in this context.
Benefits
Water helps to dissolve and distribute other ingredients evenly.
Sodium ChlorideNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
It can cause dryness and irritation, especially in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Sodium Chloride helps to thicken the product, improving its texture and stability.
Cocamidopropyl BetaineNeutral
Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is used to enhance the foaming properties of cleansing products. While generally considered safe, it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Risks
There is a potential for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It provides mild cleansing and foaming properties, making the product gentler on the skin.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric Acid is used to adjust the pH of products and can also act as a mild preservative. It is generally safe but can cause irritation in sensitive skin if used in high concentrations.
Risks
High concentrations can cause skin irritation, particularly in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Citric Acid helps to maintain the product's pH balance and can enhance preservation.
Sodium Laureth SulfateBad
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) is a surfactant used for its cleansing and foaming properties. It can strip natural oils from the skin, leading to dryness and irritation. Additionally, it may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen.
Risks
SLES can cause skin irritation and dryness, and may be contaminated with harmful substances.
Benefits
It effectively cleanses by removing dirt and oil from the skin.
Disodium EDTABad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
It may increase the penetration of other potentially harmful ingredients.
Benefits
Disodium EDTA improves product stability and shelf life by binding metal ions.
Sodium BenzoateBad
Synthetic preservative that can form benzene in the presence of vitamin C.
Risks
There is a potential risk of benzene formation, although this is rare in cosmetic formulations.
Benefits
It effectively preserves the product by inhibiting microbial growth.
Fragrance (Parfum)Very Bad
Fragrance is used to impart a pleasant scent to products. However, it can contain a mixture of undisclosed chemicals, some of which may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Risks
Fragrance can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It provides a pleasant scent to the product, enhancing user experience.
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