Eric Smith   Online Professional
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS): is one of the most commonly used foaming agents found in cosmetics. It is also used in car washes, garage floor cleaners and engine degreasers. It is a man made Non-Organic product.

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate is a major health concern because it is so common. It is found in over 90% of all foam producing products. There is a lot of debate as to how toxic it actually is, but there are literally hundreds of scientific studies explaining its toxicity.

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS):

- Can easily penetrate the skin
- Is used in clinical studies as a skin irritant
- Can damage the immune system causing separation of skin layers and severe irritation of the skin. When used on the scalp (shampoos etc), long term exposure to SLS can cause hair loss due to corrosion of hair follicles.
- Associated with the development of cataracts even with indirect contact.

Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLES) Sodium Lauryl "ether" Sulfate, a close relative of SLS is an ether chain added to SLS. Called a “premium” agent in cleaners and shampoo’s. The reality is, it is a very inexpensive product but thickens when salt is added in the formula and produces high levels of foam to give the concentrated illusion it is thick, rich and expensive. It is used as a wetting agent in the textile industry. Irritating to scalp and may cause hair loss.

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate & Sodium Laureth Sulphate is a common ingredient and is available in Baby shampoos. While many studies have been done on the effects of SLS & SLES, it remains the most common foaming agent available in Personal care products today.
Jul 17th 2007 18:27