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Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS):
the crystalline sodium salt C12H25NaO4S of sulfated lauryl alcohol;
also : a mixture of sulfates of sodium consisting principally of this salt and used as a detergent, wetting agent, and emulsifying agent (as in toothpastes, ointments, and shampoos)
Definition: Merriam Webster Dictionary Online
Commonly used in many soaps, shampoos, detergents, toothpastes and other products that we expect to “foam up”, sodium lauryl sulphate (or sulfate) started its career as an industrial degreasant and garage floor cleaner.
And in the same way that it dissolves grease from the garage floor, it dissolves the oils on your body – which can have a very drying effect on your skin.
Clinical studies have shown that sodium lauryl sulphate is retained over time in organ tissues like the heart, liver and brain and may be responsible for hormone imbalances, eye irritations, protein denaturing, and has been linked to cancers.
Here is a link to the Material Safety Data sheet on sodium lauryl sulphate. Have a read for yourself, and make up your own mind whether you will continue to use it…
Information sourced from:
Natural Health Information Centre
UK Health Report
SciencLab.com
