Sodium Laurel Sulfate (SLS)

[healthybratt]

The more I read labels the more I keep seeing this ingredient in my hygeine products.  This is very disturbing.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate

This inexpensive detergent is commonly used in cosmetic cleansers, hair shampoos, bath and shower gels, bubble baths, etc. - It is probably the most dangerous ingredient used in skin and hair-care products. In the cleaning industry SLS is used in garage floor cleaners, engine degreasers, car-wash soaps, etc. It is very corrosive and readily attacks greasy surfaces.

Sodium lauryl sulfate is used throughout the world for clinical testing as a primary skin irritant. Laboratories use it to irritate skin on test animals and humans so that they may then test healing agents to see how effective they are on the irritated skin.

A study at the University of Georgia Medical College, indicated that SLS penetrated into the eyes as well as brain, heart, liver, etc., and showed long-term retention in the tissues. The study also indicated that SLS penetrated young children's eyes and prevented them from developing properly and caused cataracts to develop In adults.

May cause hair loss by attacking the follicle. Classified as a drug in bubble baths because it eats away skin protection and causes rashes and infection to occur.

Is potentially harmful to skin and hair. Cleans by corrosion. Dries skin by stripping the protective lipids from the surface so it can't effectively regulate moisture.

Another extremely serious problem is the connection of SLS with nitrate contamination. SLS reacts with many types of ingredients used in skin products and forms nitrosomines (nitrates). Nitrates are potential cancer-causing carcinogenics.

Because of the alarming penetrating power of SLS, large amounts of these known carcinogens are absorbed through the skin into the body. A variation of SLS is SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE (Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate- SLES). It exhibits many of the same characteristics and is a higher-foaming variation of SLS.

from healthy-communications.com


Alert-Cosmetic Ingredient Review 1983

exerpts

It is recognized that Sodium and Ammonium Laureth Sulfate may induce eye and skin irritation. However, on the basis of the available information, the Panel concludes that Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Ammonium Laureth Sulfate are  not as safe as presently used in cosmetic products in amounts over 2%.. Most consumer products contain more than 20% of sls.

Although Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is not carcinogenic in experimental animals, it has been shown that it causes severe epidermal changes to the area of the skin of mice to which it was applied. This study  indicates a need for tumor-enhancing activity assays.

Autoradiographic studies of rat skin treated with radiolabelled Sodium Lauryl Sulfate found heavy deposition of the detergent on the skin surface and in the hair follicles; damage to the hair follicle could result from such deposition. Further, it has been reported that 1 percent and 5 percent Sodium Lauryl Sulfate produced significant number of comedones when applied to the pinna of albino rabbits. These two problems - possible hair loss and comedone formation - along with proven irritancy, should be considered in the formulation of cosmetic products.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate appear not to be safe in formulations designed for continuous, use.. In products intended for prolonged contact with skin, concentrations should not exceed 1-2%. However, some  shampoos, body gels, creams, lotions have over 10-20%.


Hidden Dangers Lurking in Shampoo
Quoted in part from Vancouver Island magazine called the "Herbal Collective"
(March/April '99, p 21 & 30).

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), an ingredient in 90% of commercial shampoos and conditioners, corrodes the hair follicle and impedes hair growth.  It has been blamed for many cases of premature hair loss.  I noticed that many young to middle age Canadian (North American) males have almost no hair or are even bald.  It takes hair longer to grow when it has been affected by SLS.  SLS is found in car wash soap, engine degreaser, toothpaste, lotions and garage floor cleaners.

Exposure to SLS can lead to a burning sensation, coughing, wheezing, laryngitis, shortness of breath, headache, nausea and vomiting, according to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) of the U.S. government.  SLS penetrates your eyes, brain, liver and remains there long-term.  It degenerates cell membranes because it is a mutagen that can change the genetic information in your cells and damage your immune system.  It can cause blindness (scientific studies have proven that this compound damages protein formation in the eye tissue) and can lead to cataract formation.  After damage to the eyes has been done, your eyes cannot heal properly because SLS retards the eye healing process.


The effect of two toothpaste detergents on the frequency of recurrent aphthous ulcers
Herlofson BB, Barkvoll P.
Department of Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine, Dental Faculty, University of Oslo, Norway.

The aim of the present clinical double-blind crossover study was to investigate the effect of two different toothpaste detergents, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and cocoamidopropyl betaine (CAPB), as compared with a detergent-free paste, on 30 patients with frequent occurrences of recurrent aphthous ulcers. The study consisted of three 6-week periods during which the patients brushed twice daily with the different test toothpastes. The localization and number of new ulcers were assessed. A significantly higher frequency of aphthous ulcers was demonstrated when the patients brushed with an SLS- than with a CAPB-containing or a detergent-free placebo paste. An SLS-free toothpaste may thus be recommended for patients with recurrent aphthous ulcers.


MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET ON SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE

Related threads:

Sodium Laurel Sulfate (SLS)
Your Shampoo Might Be Your Problem: Going "No Poo"
Why and How to Skip the Soap...
Homemade Laundry Soap (Detergent Free)
Homemade Toothpaste & Other Dental Products
Toothpaste & Dental Care
Homemade Dishwasher Soap
Homemade Dish Washing Soap
Soap Making: Recipes, Tips & Tricks
Soap Nuts
Can your soap pass a drug test?

[healthybratt]

HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS DATABASE

Chemical Information
Chemical Name:    Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
CAS Registry Number:    000151-21-3
Synonyms:    Sodium lauryl sulfate; Sulfuric acid monododecyl ester sodium salt; Sodium dodecyl sulfate; Dodecyl sulfate, sodium salt; Sodium lauryl sulfate ether; Sodium n-dodecyl sulfate; Sodium Lauryl Sulfate [USAN:JAN]
Information from other National Library of Medicine databases
Health Studies:    Human Health Effects from Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
Toxicity Information:    
Search TOXNET
Chemical Information:    Search ChemIDplus
Biomedical References:    Search PubMed
      
Products that contain this ingredient

Brand	Form	Percent
Americas Home Value Carpet Cleaner	aerosol
Clorox Toilet Wand (Cleaning Heads)	fabric/sponge	40-50
Loctite Crafter's All Purpose Adhesive	paste	0.1-1
Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Tablets, Fresh Citrus	tablet	5-Jan
Lysol Brand PowerOns Gel Toilet Bowl Cleaner 24 oz	gel	3-Jan
Carpet Science Spot & Stain Remover	liquid	5-Jan
Formula 409 Carpet Cleaner Spray	liquid	5-Jan
Ivory Hand Dishwashing Liquid	liquid
Hagerty Silver Foam	paste
Loctite Fabric Glue	paste	0.1-1
FIT Powder Fruit and Vegetable Rinse	powder
Scrubbing Bubbles Fizz Its Toilet Tablets	tablet	5-Jan
Ultra Hand Soap	liquid	30-Oct
Crest Tartar Control Toothpaste, Regular	paste/tube
Herbal Essence Ultra Rich Moisturizing Body Wash	lotion
Salon Selectives Botanical Blends Shampoo: Aloe	liquid
Lever 2000 Moisturizing Body Wash, Fresh Fields Scent	liquid
Aquafresh Toothpaste	paste/tube
Crest Anticavity Toothpaste, Icy Mint Striped	tube
Mentadent Fluoride Toothpaste, Multi Action Tartar Control Anticavity	pump dispenser
Barbasol Shaving Cream	cream
Micrell Antibacterial Lotion Soap	liquid	<5
Selsun Blue Dandruff Shampoo, Balanced Treatment	liquid
Crest Sensitivity Protection Mild Mint Paste	paste/tube
Freeman Botanicals Natural Hair Care: Apple Nectar	liquid
Lever 2000 Moisturizing Body Wash, Perfectly Fresh Scent	liquid
Infusium Hair Shampoo Color/Permed	liquid
Colgate Tartar Control Whitening Mint Toothpaste	paste/tube
Cover Girl Remarkable Washable/Waterproof Mascara	semi-solid
GoJo Pink Cherry Skin Cleanser	liquid	<3
Selsun Blue Shampoo, Moisturizing Treatment	liquid
Crest Multi Care Toothpaste, Cool Mint Gel	gel/tube
GoJo All Purpose Hand Soap-04/16/2003	liquid
Bath & Body Works Shower Gel-Flowering Herbs	liquid
Suave Salon Formula Shampoo	liquid
Crest Tartar Protection Fluoride Anticavity Toothpaste, Fresh Mint Gel	gel
Colgate Kids Looney Tunes Upright Toothpaste	paste/tube
Cover Girl Clean Fragrance Free Liquid Make Up	liquid
GoJo Enhanced Formula Pink & Klean Skin Cleanser	liquid	<3
Clairol Herbal Essences Shampoo-Fine/Limp Hair	liquid
Crest Cavity Protection Regular Toothpaste	paste/tube
Clairol Intensive Blends Moisturizing Shampoo for Normal Hair	liquid
Finesse Extra Moisturizing Shampoo-Dry	liquid
Suave Professionals Shampoo, BioBasics	liquid
Just For Men Brush In Mustache, Beard & Sideburns, Dark Brown Black	gel	Colorant
Toms of Maine Natural Toothpaste for Children, Silly Strawberry	paste/tube
Colgate Baking Soda & Peroxide w/ Tartar Control Clean Mint Toothpaste	paste/tube
Clearasil StayClear Acne Defense Cleanser	liquid
GoJo All Purpose Hand Soap	liquid	<5
Ultra Brite Baking Soda Toothpaste	paste
Sensodyne Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth, Tartar Control Plus Whitening	paste/tube
Suave Natural Care Shampoo, Tropical Coconut	liquid
Just For Men Brush In Mustache, Beard & Sideburns, Medium Brown	gel	Colorant
Crest Tartar Control Whitening Plus Scope, Minty Fresh Gel	gel/tube
Ultra Brite Advanced Whitening Clean Mint Toothpaste	paste/tube
Ivory Skin Cleansing Liquid Gel	gel
Dermapro Lotion Skin Cleanser	liquid	<5
Ultra Brite Gel	paste
Sensodyne Anticavity Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth, Fresh Mint	paste/tube
St. Ives Swiss Spa Revitaliz. Shampoo, Vanilla & Edelweiss-Damaged Hair	liquid
Suave Shampoo for Dry or Damaged Hair, Tropical Coconut	liquid
Just For Men Shampoo In Haircolor, Natural Ash Brown	liquid
Crest Cavity Protection Sesame Street Toothpaste	paste/tube
Colgate Total Toothpaste	paste
Aussie Real Volume Shampoo	liquid
St. Ives Swiss Spa Clarif. Shampoo-Citrus & Ginseng for Normal/Oily Hair	liquid
Aquafresh Whitening Toothpaste With Fluoride	gel/tube
Crest MultiCare Whitening Fluoride Anticavity Toothpaste, Fresh Mint	tube
Revlon Age Defying Makeup SPF 8, Fair Blush	liquid
DermaPro Body and Hair Shampoo	liquid	<5
Suave Naturals Moisturizing Body Wash w/Aloe Vera & Vit. E, Sun-Ripe Raspbe	liquid
Just For Men Shampoo In Haircolor, Light Brown	liquid
Crest Cavity Protection Icy Mint Stripe Toothpaste	paste/tube
Arm & Hammer Dental Care Whitening Toothpaste	paste/tube
Aussie Wild Peach Shampoo	liquid
Village Naturals Bubble Bath, Peach Medley	liquid
Aquafresh Sensitive Toothpaste	paste/tube
Crest Extra Whitening with Tartar Protection Toothpaste	tube
Revlon Eterna '27' All Day Moisture Lotion	liquid
Old Spice Shave Cream	aerosol foam
Suave Moisturizing 2 in 1 Body Wash, Aloe Vera & Water Lily	liquid
Just For Men Shampoo In Haircolor, Dark Brown-Black	liquid
Crest Tartar Control Smooth Mint Gel Toothpaste	gel/tube
Herbal Essence Body Wash (Dry Skin and Normal)	lotion
Prograine Shampoo-Thinning Hair Use with extra volume	liquid
Lever 2000 Family Body Wash, Pure Rain	liquid
Aquafresh All Tartar Control Toothpaste	paste/tube
Crest Cool Mint Gel Toothpaste	tube
Mentadent Advanced Whitening Fluoride Toothpaste w/Baking Soda and Peroxide	pump dispenser
Listermint Mouthwash	liquid
Pink Lotion Hand Soap	liquid	30-Oct
Selsun Blue Dandruff Shampoo, 2 in 1 Treatment	liquid
Crest Tartar Control Fresh Mint Gel Toothpaste	gel/tube
Herbal Essence Daily Body Smoother Body Wash	liquid
Salon Selectives Shampoo Level 4: Extra Moisturizing	liquid
Lever 2000 Moisturizing Body Wash, Morning Sky	liquid
Infusium Hair Shampoo Moisturizing	liquid
Mentadent Fluoride Toothpaste w/Baking Soda & Peroxide, Fresh Mint	pump dispenser
GoJo White Blossom Skin Cleanser	liquid	<5
Selsun Blue Dandruff Shampoo, Medicated Treatment	liquid
Crest Multi Care Toothpaste, Fresh Mint Gel	gel/tube
Clairol Loving Care Color Mousse	aerosol
Suave Naturals Moisturizing Body Wash with Aloe Vera & Vitamin E, Freesia	liquid
Gleem Toothpaste Regular Flavor	tube
Colgate Toothpaste, Regular	paste/tube
Cover Girl Clean Liquid Make-Up	liquid
GoJo Lather & Klean Hair and Body Shampoo	liquid	<5
Clairol Herbal Essences Shampoo-Normal Hair	liquid
Crest Extra Whitening w/Tartar Protection Clean Mint Gel Toothpaste	gel/tube
Clairol Intensive Blends Shampoo Protecting For Colored/Permed Hair	liquid
New Finesse Hydrating Silk Protein Enriched Adj. Shampoo	liquid
Suave Professionals Shampoo, Humectant	liquid
Infusium 23 Shampoo, Moisturizing for Color/Permed Hair	liquid
Crest Rejuvenating Effects Fluoride Anticavity Toothpaste	paste
Colgate Baking Soda & Peroxide w/ Tartar Control Whitening Toothpaste	paste/tube
GoJo E 2 Sanitizing One Step Skin Cleanser	liquid	<5
Crest Whitening Toothpaste Plus Scope, Minty Fresh Striped	paste
Clairol Herbal Essences Intensive Blends Replenishing Shampoo	liquid
Suave Professionals Shampoo, Awapuhi	liquid
Just For Men Brush In Mustache, Beard & Sideburns, Natural Light Brown	gel	Colorant
Crest Tartar Control Whitening Plus Scope, Cool Peppermint Gel	gel/tube
Ultra Brite with Baking Soda & Peroxide Toothpaste	paste/tube
Dermapro Spa Bath for Body & Hair Shampoo	liquid	<5
Ultra Brite Toothpaste	paste
Sensodyne Anticavity Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth with Baking Soda	paste/tube
St. Ives Swiss Spa Extra Body Volumizing Shampoo with Chamomile & Sunflower	liquid
Suave Moisturizing Shampoo for Dry or Damaged Hair	liquid
Just For Men Shampoo In Haircolor, Natural Sandy Blonde	liquid
Crest Whitening Toothpaste Plus Scope, Cool Peppermint	paste/tube
Colgate Total Toothpaste, Fresh Stripe	paste
Clearly Natural Body Soap	solid	1
Thicker Fuller Hair Moisturizing Shampoo	liquid
Sensodyne Extra Whitening Toothpaste	paste/tube
Crest Baking Soda & Peroxide Whitening with Tartar Protection	tube
St. Ives Swiss Spa Strength Shampoo-Pear/Vit. A Normal/Dry Hair	liquid
Dermapro IHC Food Industry Sanitizing Soap	liquid	<5
Suave Moisturizing 2 in 1 Body Wash, Moisture Rich	liquid
Just For Men Shampoo In Haircolor, Medium Brown	liquid
Crest Cavity Protection Cool Mint Gel	gel/tube
Arm & Hammer Peroxicare Baking Soda Toothpaste	paste/tube
Aussie Mega Shampoo with Papaya Extract	liquid
Sesame Street Bubble Bath, Splashin Berry Bubbles	liquid
Aquafresh Striped Gel Whitening Toothpaste	gel/tube
Crest MultiCare Fluoride Anticavity Toothpaste, Cool Mint	tube
Revlon Age Defying SPF 8, Natural Tan	cream
Oil of Olay Age Defying Series Daily Renewal Cleanser w Gentle Microbeads	lotion
Suave Moisturizing 2 in 1 Body Wash, Passion Flower & Rosemary	liquid
Just For Men Shampoo In Haircolor, Jet Black	liquid
Crest Cavity Protection Icy Mint Toothpaste	paste/tube
Herbal Essence Fruit Fusions Moisturizing Body Wash	liquid
Aussie Custard Apple Shampoo	liquid
Village Naturals Bubble Bath, Freesia & Flowers	liquid
Aquafresh Multi Action Whitening Toothpaste	paste/tube
Crest Kids Cavity Protection Fluoride Anticavity Toothpaste	tube
Topol Whitening Anticavity Toothpaste, Spearmint	paste
Ivory Liquid Hand Soap (Clear)	liquid
Bioganic Safety Brands Lawn & Garden Spray	liquid	2
8 in 1 Perfect Coat Select Extra Body Shampoo	liquid
8 in 1 Perfect Coat Select Moisturizing Shampoo	liquid
8 in 1 Perfect Coat Select Antibacterial Deodorizing Shampoo	liquid
8 in 1 Perfect Coat Select Deep Cleansing Shampoo	liquid

[Leah IL]

Wow, very interesting!!  After reading the skin and hair section on this site I started using vinegar as a rinse and baking soda mixed with my regular shampoo.  Now I have switched from shampoo to Coco Castile soap for my hair which reads on the label: NO detergents and NO Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.  It is a coconut oil soap that costs 89 cents a bar.

[dara]

Okay, so I had to see what Tom's of Maine had to say, since this ingredient is in my kid's toothpaste, and found an interesting counter statement. See what you think.
   http://www.tomsofmaine.com/toms/ifs/sls.asp

[healthybratt]

Okay, so I had to see what Tom's of Maine had to say, since this ingredient is in my kid's toothpaste, and found an interesting counter statement. See what you think.
   http://www.tomsofmaine.com/toms/ifs/sls.asp

IMO it's a lot of song and dance based on what the FDA says is OK.  The FDA also says it's OK to put aspartame in candy, gum, jello and soft drinks.

Toms says
"So rampant are these rumors that they are even addressed on the "Urban Legends"

Tom also says
"There is some research which shows that people with an existing gum condition called recurrent aphthous ulcers may experience more rapid healing if they temporarily use a toothpaste without SLS."

I looked up the Urband Legends and they only dispute rumors that SLS causes cancer.  They do not however dispute that it is an irritant and they also confirm that a standard shampoo is 15% SLS solution. 

If you look back at my earlier post under "Alert-Cosmetic Ingredient Review 1983".  This article states that SLS is safe when under 2% but most products contain 20% solution.  This article also says that SLS is not carcinogenic in rats but causes severe skin problems and hair loss.

Urband Legends also says "Additionally, all manufacturers of hazardous chemicals in the U.S. are required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a part of the U.S. Department of Labor, to file Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for those products. An MSDS "contains written or printed material concerning a hazardous chemical as prescribed by law," including information "needed to insure the safety and health of the user at all stages of [the chemical's] manufacture, storage, use, and disposal." Examining the MSDS for sodium lauryl sulfate, we find that the "Health Hazard Data" section that SLS can produce some rather nasty side effects if you inhale or ingest it, get it in your eyes, or leave it in contact with your skin for too long."
(look back in original post for a link to Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS))

If you look back at my earlier post under "Alert-Cosmetic Ingredient Review 1983" once again.  It states "Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate appear not to be safe in formulations designed for continuous, use.. In products intended for prolonged contact with skin, concentrations should not exceed 1-2%. However, some  shampoos, body gels, creams, lotions have over 10-20%."

Personally, I have had trouble for years.  Read my post on Skin/Hair/Scalp.  As soon as I stopped using products on my skin and hair containing SLS and other detergents, all of my problems vanished.  Just to prove my theory, I purchased a very expensive, mild detergent shampoo.  The symptoms returned almost immedietly.  The only thing all of the shampoos have in common that my soap doesn't have is Detergents - mainly SLS and also ALS (ammonium laurel sulfate).

About toothpaste:  IMO if SLS is that harmful to my skin and hair, I'm not sure I want to be using it in my mouth.  My dentist says to avoid alcohol mouth washes because they dry out the mouth and cause harmful bacteria to grow.  SLS is a surfactant and reduces the surface tension of liquids which causes a stripping of moisture on whatever it touches.  I would think this would cause more problems than a bit of alcohol mouthwash, as most people use toothpaste 2-3 times a day and mouthwash only occaisionally.

Here's another article which seems to represent both sides of the arguement.

Linda Chae:  You Have A Right To Know.

[petrimama]

   I really want to learn about the harmful substances in my home, but I often feel frustratd because I cannot trust any organization to be truthful!  On top of that, the culprits seem to be everywgere!  Even the supposedly healthy alternatives like Tom's (I was never a huge fan) have sold out.  I have probably made more changes than the average person and I know I sometimes seem strange to our house guests for it, but I cannot justify not making the changes when I am able to.  What a shame that it is burdonsome to be healthy in this age!
   Anyway, I am  convinced that there is a danger here and I was wondering where I can find the coconut soap.  I have considered the soap & vinegar thing for a while but because I have limp hair without volumizing shampoo I have been putting it off.  (I use the excuse that my husband like sbody in my hair but really it's my own vanity.)  I may just cut my hair and then I can use the healthy alternatives without having to worry about how I look.  Anyway, if anyone else knows of safer options I'd be interested before resorting to scissors and vinegar.
   Also, how about toothpaste options besides homemade?          ~ L

[Helen]

I love the melaluca toothpaste, it does not contain SLS, but the hair shampoo. I am addicted to the Kathys  Family from <a href="http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/cgi-bin/Main.pl?AID=079749&BID=30>Mountain Rose Herbs[/url]   My hair is so much healthier now and grows much faster.   Henna is also something really good for your hair, you can read about at the same website.                         Good luck

[healthybratt]

I have limp hair without volumizing shampoo I have been putting it off. 

  I can understand your hesitation; however, I don't believe your shampoo is doing anything for your hair, that you couldn't do with your hair dryer and your hair dryer is not nearly as damaging as detergents are to your scalp.  I have very straight, limp hair, but I haven't noticed any decline in the bounciness of my hair since I switched.  It woudln't hurt to try it.  Even if you hate it, you can always use the vinegar for cleaning, fabric softener and tinctures (no waste there).    One other thing you could try is the homemade shampoo without soap or detergents.  Check here for the recipes.  These may rinse cleaner without the aid of vinegar.

[Leah IL]

Here is the website of the product I am using:

http://www.kirksnatural.com/

I just bought the bar soap at the grocery store, but the shampoo on the website looks pretty good too!    I lather the soap in my hands, sprinkle in baking soda, and work it into my scalp.  Then I rinse with water and then do a final rinse with a white distilled vinegar and warm water solution.  I have had the worst dandruff and scaly scalp for YEARS and it is totally gone after doing this for just a few days!!  My hair is so shiny!  My husband just commented tonight that my hair looks like I had it "done"

It may not be SLS that is at fault, but there is something wrong with regular shampoos, at least there is for me.  We use a toothpaste called Nature's Gate which I am noticing lists SLS (from coconut oil) as an ingredient.

[dara]

As much as I am very picky about the ingredient lists on our personal care products, at the moment, if it says SLS from coconut oil (like our Tom's toothpaste does), I am not extremely concerned because it is naturally derived, and at the end of the ingredient list. I would eventually like to try making my own with herbs for tooth and gum health right in it, but time does not allow just yet.
        Anyway, I was wanting to mention to petrimama that Jason brand toothpaste does not contain SLS. Vitacost.com is a discount distributor of all kinds of vitamins and personal care products, and they have flat rate $5. shipping.

[petrimama]

Okay, i haven't tried them yet, but the makers of Coco Castile bar soap also make SLS-free shampoo & conditioner.  The prices are amazing compared to other SLS free products, but I didn't recognize some other ingredients on the list, so I'll have to do some readingbefore i buy.  Visit www.kirksnatural.com to check it out.    ~Layla

[healthybratt]

Okay, i haven't tried them yet, but the makers of Coco Castile bar soap also make SLS-free shampoo & conditioner.  The prices are amazing compared to other SLS free products, but I didn't recognize some other ingredients on the list, so I'll have to do some readingbefore i buy.  Visit www.kirksnatural.com to check it out.    ~Layla

I've done research on making my own soap.  Coconut derivatives are used in some soaps because it produces the best lather; however it's also harsher to the skin according to all the home soap makers out there.  Most of your detergents (Sodium Laurel Sulfate, Ammonium Laurel Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate, Laureth 3, Laureth 4) are coconut derivatives.  Other fats, especially lanolin and olive oil are more gentle but give less lather. 


http://waltonfeed.com/old/soap/soapchem.html

[petrimama]

This is what the labels list...

Kirk's Shampoo Ingredients : Potassium Coconate and TEA Wheat Germ Oil Soap, Purified Water, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Cocamide MEA, Sodium Chloride, Aloe, Chamomile, Soapwort, DMDM Hydantoin, Natural Fragrance, Tetrasodium EDTA

Kirks' Conditioner Ingredients : Purified Water, Linden Flower, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Calendula, Wheat Germamidopropyl Dimethylamine Lactate, DMDM Hydantoin, Primrose, Natural Fragrance

Coco Castile bar Soap Ingredients:  (For use as body & hair wash)
                                        Coconut Oil : a quality emollient.
                                        Soap of Coconut : for gentle cleansing and high lathering.
                                        Water : for quick rinsibility.

The Liquid Soap has SLS from cocnut oil.

The Moisutizing, Deoderant & Sensative Skin bars seem okay, too.  Just herbs, mostly.

Hope that helps....~Layla

[healthybratt]

If I can't pronounce'em, I would assume they can't be good, but I'll try to look these up for you later.  If you're in a hurry, the way I start my research on an unknown ingredient is simply to type What is "Potassium Coconate" in my search engine and go from there.  Sometimes, you'll get more helpful info once you find a synonym and then try searching for it instead. 

Potassium Cocoate
Potassium Cocoate is the potassium salt of Coconut Acid. It is a soap type emulsifier.

(your're probably pretty safe with this one )

If you find words like "surfactant" and/or "detergent", you're probably looking at a not-so-healthy ingredient.  Surfactant is just something that changes the surface tension of water (it makes the water drops smaller) so that dirt and oils are better absorbed when cleaning.  I've been trying to find "natural" surfactants, but have come up short so far.  Detergents are synthetic surfactants.  They will claim to be "natural", because they are derived from "natural" sources such as coconut, palm trees, etc, but keep in mind, some things taken from nature are not always left in a "natural" state.   

[Kristin_19_78]

You think it's bad that they put it in cosmetics??? Well get a load of this...it was an ingredient in the iron tablets the health department gave me!!!!

[healthybratt]

Kirk's Shampoo Ingredients : Potassium Coconate and TEA Wheat Germ Oil Soap, Purified Water, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Cocamide MEA, Sodium Chloride, Aloe, Chamomile, Soapwort, DMDM Hydantoin, Natural Fragrance, Tetrasodium EDTA

Kirks' Conditioner Ingredients : Purified Water, Linden Flower, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Calendula, Wheat Germamidopropyl Dimethylamine Lactate, DMDM Hydantoin, Primrose, Natural Fragrance

Coco Castile bar Soap Ingredients:  (For use as body & hair wash)
                                        Coconut Oil : a quality emollient.
                                        Soap of Coconut : for gentle cleansing and high lathering.
                                        Water : for quick rinsibility.

The Liquid Soap has SLS from cocnut oil.

TEA Wheat Germ Oil Soap

I could not find this as a whole on the web; however TEA stands for Triethanolamine. 

[Triethanolamine] Can cause severe facial dermatitis, irritation and sensitivity. Used as ph adjuster. Reacts with stearic acid to form oil in water emulsions, typically lotions. May contain nitrosamines, known carcinogens. Its main toxic effect in animals is due to its over-alkalinity. It is used as a coating agent for fruits and vegetables.
www.askincaredirectory.com/Glossary/T.htm

Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine (synonyms include Cocamidopropyl and Quaternary Ammonium Compounds)

Cocamidopropyl betaine is a very mild surfactant which does not irritate skin or mucous membranes. It also has antiseptic properties, making it suitable for personal sanitary products. It is compatible with other cationic, anionic, and nonionic surfactants.

Definitions of Quaternary Ammonium Compounds on the Web:

    * A class of chemicals used as disinfectant, antistat and softening agents (quats).
      www.howtocleananything.com/hca_glossay.htm

    * Also called Quats or QAC. A type of algaecide composed of ammonia compounds. They are also effective algaestats for certain types of algae.
      www.havuz.org/glossary/pool-m-r.htm

    * also called quats - the chemical compounds of ammonia used as algaecides and algaestats. Rate of flow: the quantity of water flowing past a designated point within a specified time, such as the number of gallons flowing past a point in 1 minute - abbreviated as gpm. Reagents: the chemical agents, dyes, indicators or titrants used in testing various aspects of water quality. Residual bromine: the amount of measurable bromine remaining after treating the water with bromine. ...
      www.namcopool.com/care_guides/glossary.htm

Definitions of Cocamide MEA on the Web:

    * is a thickener added to cleansers to help stabilize the lather and improve foam
      www.johnabate.com/glossary-of-ingrediants/default.htm

Whether you buy your shampoo and conditioner at the local grocery store, at your favorite salon you will be hard pressed to find a product that does not contain either Lauramide DEA or Cocamide MEA [contains DEA or Diethanolamine].

DEA is considered part of a group of potentially "dangerous" chemicals that are used in just about every hair care product on the traditional marketplace....more

DEA in Shampoos

...Take the case of the suspect cancer-causing agent diethanolamine (DEA), which is used as an emulsifier and foaming agent in shampoos. We reported early on that the federal National Toxicology Program (NTP) completed a study in 1998 that found an association between the topical application of diethanolamine and certain DEA-related ingredients and cancer in laboratory animals. For the DEA-related ingredients, the NTP study suggested that the carcinogenic response was linked to possible residual levels of DEA...more

DMDM hydantoin is a preservative that works by releasing formaldehyde into the product.

Uses

DMDM hydantoin is used in shampoos and cosmetics to prevent molds, mildews, and bacterial spoilage.

Another formaldehyde releasing preservative is imidazolidinyl urea.

Tetrasodium EDTA (or  Ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid)

Uses

Sodium or calcium EDTA binds to metals, such as nickel, copper, and iron, making them unavailable to react with other ingredients in a product, or with compunds in the human body.

Compounds that act in this way are called sequestering agents, or chelating agents (after the word for the claw of a crab -- chelae).

EDTA is used to treat lead and mercury poisoning, as it can lock up those metals so they can do no harm in the body.

EDTA also sequesters calcium and magnesium from hard water, preventing them from forming insoluble soap films (scum) with soaps and detergents.

Definitions of Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid on the Web:

    * A sequestering (chelating) agent with unique properties of "neutralizing" trace metals (like calcium, iron and magnesium salts, etc.) and other deposits on hair. Ethyl Ester PVM/MA Copolymer - Humidity resistant, non - tacky polymer. Ethoxydiglycol - Viscosity decreasing agent. Essential Oils - Used for fragrance, as an antiseptic, germicide and a natural preservative. Derived from natural plant oil.
      www.salon-collective.co.uk/ingredients.php

Hydroxyethylcellulose is used to treat conditions where not enough tears are produced to keep the eye lubricated and clean. Hydroxyethylcellulose lubricates the surface of the eye in the same way as natural tears. It can therefore be used to relieve the dryness and pain associated with reduced or abnormal tear production...more

Definitions of Hydroxyethylcellulose on the Web:

    * Artificial polymer is used as an emulsifier and plasticizer.
      beautyskin.tripod.com/MALL.HTM

Wheat germ amidopropyl dimethylamine lactate (this was a tough one)

Dimethylamine is used as a raw material of solvent (dimethylformamide, dimethylacetamide), and alkyl alkanolamines and dimethyl hydrazine (ingredients of rocket fuel ). It is used to make other organic chemicals including rubber vulacanization accelerators (tetra methyl thiuram disulphide, zinc dimethyldithiocarbamate, sodium dimethyldithiocarbamate and potassuim dimethyldithiocarbamate), pesticides (isoproturon, ziram, thiram, diuron, monuron, chloroxuron, fenuron), surfactants (alkyldimethylamine oxides, dimethylaminoethanol, quaternary ammonium compounds), photographic chemicals,  corrosion inhibitors, explosives, dyes and pharmaceuticals. Dimethylamine is used in rayon and nylon industry to improve the tensile strength.

HAZARD SUMMARY
* Dimethylamine can affect you when breathed in and by
passing through your skin.
* Dimethylamine can irritate and cause severe burns of the
skin.
* Contact can severely irritate and burn the eyes with
possible permanent damage (corneal opacities), causing
blindness.
* Breathing Dimethylamine can irritate the nose and throat.
* Breathing Dimethylamine can irritate the lungs causing
coughing and/or shortness of breath. Higher exposures
can cause a build-up of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary
edema), a medical emergency, with severe shortness of
breath.
* Repeated exposure may damage the liver.... more

Enterprise and Industry lists dimethylaminopropyl as a synonym for Wheat germ amidopropyl dimethylamine lactate.  The Household Products Database lists Stearamidopropyl dimethylamine as a possible synonym for dimethylaminopropyl.

Definitions of Stearamidopropyl dimethylamine on the Web:

    * a surfactant and conditioner for mild cleansers
      www.entheos-holistic.com/glossary-terms-ingredients.htm

And some claim to be natural, but are not. For example, an ingredients label may list sodium laureth sulfate derived from coconut oil. But when this chemical combines with other ingredients in the product carcinogenic nitrosating agents are created...more

Definitions of Sodium laurel sulfate on the Web:

    * one of the most common, and most irritating, of all detergents, it is widely used in bubble baths, shampoos, cleansers, and shower gels. It's less irritating when combined with cocoamidopropyl betaine or sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, as it often is in shampoos.
      magnoliaspa.com
My brain hurts.  This is what I found ladies.  Do with the information what you feel is best.  I'm no chemist, but I just followed my fingers through the web and if you click on "more" or the "chemical" name in most cases, I've provided a link with more thorough information.

[kittyninja]

ANGEL FOOD CAKE FROM SAM'S CLUB CONTAINS  SLS!!!

[healthybratt]

ANGEL FOOD CAKE FROM SAM'S CLUB CONTAINS  SLS!!!

umm...at least it's clean

[dara]

Here's a new article. For every one I find against something, I find something else stating, at least, a more balanced view. I would still prefer to avoid SLS because it is synthetic, but I do think we should be careful not to make falsely exaggerated claims about it's danger. I'm not saying anyone has, so no one be offended here, I'm just trying be accurate myself, because the truth is simply more believable. (Good luck figuring out the honest truth!  )

http://web.archive.org/web/20040714081534/http://www.drweil.com/drw/app/cda/drw_cda.php?command=TodayQA&pt=Question&questionId=3513

[Pennie]

I haven't read this whole thread but I plan to, but after reading the first few I feel somewhat "better". Let me splain.  I went to an Arbonne "party" the other night and she told about how "everything" else uses animal products and minerals and arbonne is ALL NATURAL.  So I came home kinda mopey b/c I REALLY wanted to try their prodcuts even considered signing up for a discount but even with the discount I could just NEVER justify those prices.  Especially when brushing with my 8 dollar brush will do the same thing at their 55 dollar tube of cellulite reducing cream.....I could go hon but I won't. But I did "win" some body gel and lotion and I just looked and the body wash also has SLS.  Now, it still is proabably better than most other stuff and I am not "knocking" Arbonne. Shoot I would use it if it weren't soooo expensive.  The vitamins are 129 for 1 month for 1 person!!  Yikes, I could just never do that.  Anyway so I am not feeling so bad that I can't use it now.....I will just do a liver flush and not worry about the cream that would get rid of my liver spots.  and I do really think the brushing has helped those along with using my witch hazel for toner which arbonne has in it.     And I do understand what Dara is saying.  Anymore we just have to take the lesser of the "evils" 

[healthybratt]

Just thought I would give everyone a heads up.  After finding out that I was sensitive to SLS, I removed it from every source I could find.  I haven't even been brushing my teeth with regular toothpaste for quite some time.  I was at my MIL's house last night and used her toothpaste and broke out in hives that evening.  So if you're trying to eliminate this toxin as a possible source of hives, eczema, or other skin irritation, don't forget to check the toothpaste and any other "cleaners" in the house - basically anything that "foams".

[likemanywaters]

Hmm...  I got to thinking as I was playing with my son outdoors today. We were blowing bubbles & I was wondering.. Does anyone know what those "miracle bubbles" really are?  I was wondering if they were mostly SLS like all the liquid shampoos & dish detergents. (it was SLS, go figure)

[healthybratt]

Hmm...  I got to thinking as I was playing with my son outdoors today. We were blowing bubbles & I was wondering.. Does anyone know what those "miracle bubbles" really are?  I was wondering if they were mostly SLS like all the liquid shampoos & dish detergents.

Most likely, but you'd have to check the ingredients to be sure.  Most liquid soaps need detergents like SLS to emulsify and make them liquid.  My grandma used to make bubbles out of dishsoap and water.  Pretty much the same thing as far as I know.

[its_me518]

I was looking for a toothpaste that did not contain sodium laurel sulfate (SLS). I ended up with some Kiss My Face Toothpaste but then noticed that it has a similar, but different, ingredient called Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate. I looked it up online and it is described as a mild surfactant, basically another cleaning agent. Does anybody know if this is similar enough to sodium laurel sulfate to cause the same problem? Is it just another detergent that might irritate my mouth? And what are some of the "free from all this junk" toothpastes that you ladies have found?? Does SLS cause canker sores??

[likemanywaters]

I was looking for a toothpaste that did not contain sodium laurel sulfate (SLS). I ended up with some Kiss My Face Toothpaste but then noticed that it has a similar, but different, ingredient called Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate. I looked it up online and it is described as a mild surfactant, basically another cleaning agent. Does anybody know if this is similar enough to sodium laurel sulfate to cause the same problem? Is it just another detergent that might irritate my mouth? And what are some of the "free from all this junk" toothpastes that you ladies have found?? Does SLS cause canker sores??

Seems like basically the make-it-yourself toothpastes are the best (see http://www.welltellme.com/discuss/index.php/topic,3787.0.html)  I think I had a sample of Burt's Bees Cinnamint toothpaste and it was free of anything suspicious!

[KatieMac]

I heard on the TODAY show this morning that anti-viral tissues contain SLS. Just thought I'd pass that info along for those avoiding it.

[YoopreMama]

I'm so glad for this thread....I am battling eczema in the Fungal-Bacterial Infections thread, and something triggered it--I think it could be the SLS in our Tom's toothpaste...now to read up on my Desert Essence--it says it's SLS free...
*******************************
It has some other SL stuff...like SLB, made from vegetables.   

I also rechecked my Seventh Generation dishsoap..."cleansers made from coconut"...I think I know what that means now.    I use gloves, but wipe things down w/ the dish cloth when they're off.

I've made such progress w/ my skin, I hope to avoid a flare up.  Time to check out homemade dish soap and liquid soap...maybe toothpaste too!  Better late than never...I know the threads are out there!   

[healthybratt]

For easy reference, here are some links with alternative solutions.

Homemade Dishwashing Soap
Homemade Laundry Detergent
Your Shampoo Might Be Your Problem: Going "No Poo"
Homemade Toothpaste & Other Dental Products

[YoopreMama]

Thanks, HB!   

That IS convenient and I'm sure I'm not the 1st or last to be in that situation of beginning a search for new ways to make things to avoid SLS. I went to the dish washing soap one today and made some simple liquid soap that I'm going to try w/ washing dishes, too (from SC)...Used coal tar soap.    It's grey but will do the job, I think! 

[healthybratt]

Toxic overload from SLS can lead to many problems including:

Skin irritations including: 
Ø   Dry skin
Ø   Itching and inflammation
Ø   Acne
Ø   Rosacea
Ø   Brown spots
Ø   Sagging
Ø   Wrinkles
Ø   Fine lines
Ø   Eczema
Ø   Dermatitis
Ø   Psoriasis

Hair and Scalp problems including:
Ø   Hair damage
Ø   Hair loss
Ø   Corrosion of hair follicles
Ø   Scalp damage (flaking, itching, etc)

Estrogen dominance which includes symptoms like:
Ø      Swollen breasts
Ø      Water retention
Ø      Impatience
Ø      Mood swings
Ø      Cramping
Ø      Irregular periods
Ø      PMS
Ø      Blood clots
Ø      Uterine and ovarian fibroids
Ø      Endometriosis
Ø      Fatigue
Ø      Breast Cancer
Ø      Prostate Cancer
Ø      Reduced libido
Ø      Miscarriage or birth defects

   
Cataracts & improper eye development in children

Nervous System Disorders

Cancer

Detergents provide a quality that causes a cleansing product to foam which allows a better distribution of the cleanser while cleaning the hair, skin or teeth.  Once rinsed away, the area will be cleaner than if you had not used a detergent to clean with, but along with dirt, all natural oils and moisture is stripped from the scalp, hair, skin and gums.  This causes drying of the areas and exacerbate already exisiting skin and scalp problems.  These products can actually corrode the hair follicle and impair hair growth.  These ingredients rinse cleaner than typical soaps, but still remain on the body and in the hair long after they are rinsed. 

SLS is also what’s known as a xenoestrogen (a synthetic, or manmade, compound that mimics estrogen in the human body).  The overuse of products containing SLS and other harmful surfactants, can lead to a condition known as estrogen dominance which may lead to many other problems including PMS, endometriosis, PCOS and fibroid tumors.  Although many of these symptoms are primarily female, many men in American suffer from estrogen dominance and their symptoms can include prostate cancer and a decrease in libido.

The Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association (CTFA) and the American Cancer Society stated it to be an urban legend.[6] However, the Environmental Working Group has claimed in their Skin Deep Report that SLES may possibly be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane.[7] SLES and SLS have been known to become contaminated with 1,4-dioxane.[8] The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency considers 1,4-dioxane to be a probable carcinogen.[9] While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration encourages manufacturers to remove this contaminant, it is not currently required by federal law.[10]

Dioxin – a group of chemicals classified by their extreme toxicity level.  Some ingredients that are considered or include dioxins are:  triclosan, emulsifiers, PEGS and ethoxylated cleansers such as Sodium Laureth Sulfate.  Dioxin genetically modifies a cell causing many side effects including:  cancer, nervous system disorders, miscarriages, birth defects.  Our bodies have no natural defense against dioxins.