Sodium lauryl sulfate is a synthetic "bubble maker"
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) makes lots of fine bubbles and cleans greasy skin and hair very well. It is also very cheap. That’s why you find SLS in most commercial soaps, shampoos, body wash, shaving foams, bubble baths and even toothpastes. Because SLS can strip off grease so well, it is also used in engine degreasers and car wash. Too much SLS is too strong for skin and hair, so no more than 15% of it is used in personal cleaning products.
SLS is made from lauryl alcohol which is usually taken from coconut or palm oil. Lauryl alcohol is put through a series of chemicals reactions including hydrogenation to make SLS.
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are similar but different.
Note: Milk Relief Soap™ contains no sodium lauryl sulfate.
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This post and the two before it have been truly informational. As a mother of a child with eczema, I have always had to be very discriminating when it comes to anything that goes on his skin. I look forward to continuing to learn from you.
Thanks for your comment! We mums have to be very discerning when it comes to our children’s skin I agree.
You know, I’ve had to change shampoos from my favorites at the grocery store to ones that I only sort of like at the health food store. A few years ago, something was bothering my eye (yes, singular) made it puffy. I started eliminating soaps and shampoos and moisturizers. I’m only back on a few of them that have proven not to irritate, and I still don’t know what the ingredient/s are that aggravate.
I’m interested to hear more! Although, I do love those suds in my shampoo… ah well!
I have a similar experience, Luci. I noticed a new “all natural” eczema cream at an online health store I frequently shop at, so I bought some for our family to try. I tried some on my hands, and the next day my eye lids were swollen. I didn’t know what caused it until I tried the cream again. My eye lids were swollen again! I realized that I sometimes rub my eyes with my hands without thinking, in bed, too. When I stopped using the cream, my eyes were back to normal. Others in the family didn’t react in this way at all. I still don’t know exactly which ingredient I reacted to, since not all the ingredients are listed on the tube.