The foaming action of shampoo on commercials makes you believe they are powerfully effective with all that rich lather—it is how we picture shampoo and think the suds are needed in order to get our hair clean. But what if this soapy action comes with a high price- like affecting your health?

The foaming action of our favorite hygiene products such as; shampoo, shower gels and bubble bath is caused by an inexpensive detergent called Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) or Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES)- a variation of SLS that displays the same characteristics but has even higher foaming action. SLS is a synthetic chemical that is used in multiple consumer products; from skin care products to heavy duty industrial cleaners like garage floor cleaners and engine degreasers because of its ability to corrode and attack greasy surfaces. So why would an ingredient that is used to clean the engine of your car also be in products used to clean your body? Simply: it’s cheap and creates the fabulous foam we desire.

The majority of shampoos contain synthetic detergents and are irritating to the scalp and eyes. The FDA reports that shampoos are among the top products reported for scalp and skin irritation; as well as, eye irritation, stinging and redness. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review’s assessment published in the Journal of the American College of Toxicology in 1983 notes that SLS “is used around the world in clinical studies as a skin irritant” so companies can evaluate their healing agents on irritated skin. The same report concluded that SLS has a “degenerative effect on the cell membranes because of its protein denaturing properties,” and “high levels of skin penetration may occur at even low use concentrations.” Studies conducted since the late 1970’s and 1980’s have been varied and inconclusive; however, they have led to a wide range of inquires regarding safety issues. The National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS) conducted a review on available data and literature regarding the human health effects of SLS. Their review of available research indicated that, “there are no data in the OECD and CIR reports on SLS and their formulations to indicate SLS to be a skin sensitiser, genotoxic, carcinogenic, or a reproductive toxicant. The toxicity of SLS appears to be restricted to acute toxicity and skin and eye irritation… the human health hazards are low.” SLS is considered to be safe for use in cosmetics at a certain percentage because the dosage amounts are far less than those used in animal studies. It may be notable to mention; however, that in Germany cosmetics and personal care products certified natural can not contain SLS, ammonium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate.

At this time the research is inconclusive; so it may be wise to be particularly efficient at rinsing your hair or body thoroughly to limit absorption or to choose a product that does not contain SLS, especially for young children. Weleda Calendula Baby Shampoo & Body Wash is a wonderful choice for your baby, infant or child’s delicate skin and eyes. For adults, there are many options to chose from, such as the; Kiss My Face and Nature’s Gate Organics product lines.