When you go through your body care routine, it's essential to pay special attention to the ingredients in your body products. One of these ingredients, Sodium Laureth Sulfates (SLS), has become increasingly controversial over the years, not only for its potential health effects but also for its negative impact on the environment and aquatic organisms.
At Bleu Lavande, we have made the decision to exclude this questionable ingredient from all of our products. We have also added this icon to certify that they are all 100% sulfate-free:
Let's demystify this controversial ingredient together!
Sodium Laureth Sulfates: What Are They?
Sodium Laureth Sulfates are surfactants commonly used in a wide range of personal care products, such as shower gels, bubble baths, shampoos, toothpaste, and even facial cleansers. They are used to create the foaming and "cleansing" effect in these products.
The Harmful Effects of SLS
Although SLS can be found in many products, their frequent use is subject to controversy due to their potential effects on the skin and overall health.
Skin Irritation: SLS is known to be irritating to the skin, especially in children and individuals with sensitive skin. It can cause itching, redness, and a burning sensation.
Skin Dryness: Regular use of products containing SLS can lead to skin dehydration because these compounds not only remove dirt but also strip away the skin's natural protective oils. This is why it's advisable to avoid this ingredient in hair products as well, as it can be drying and lead to increased sebum production, making the hair greasy.
Eye Problems: SLS can also irritate the eyes, causing stinging and tearing. This is particularly concerning when it comes to products for children, as it can be challenging to avoid eye contact.
Potential Health Risks: While research is still ongoing, some studies suggest that SLS may be linked to more serious health issues, including endocrine disruption and potential carcinogenic risks. However, it's important to note that these findings are still controversial, but in doubt, we prefer to avoid them!
Some Alternatives to SLS
Fortunately, there are many healthier alternatives to Sodium Laureth Sulfates available in the market. We encourage you to opt for these milder ingredients when choosing products. Health-conscious consumers can look for products containing gentler ingredients like:
Coco-glucoside: A gentle surfactant derived from coconut oil.
Lauryl Glucoside: Another surfactant derived from coconut oil that cleans gently without causing irritation.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate: A surfactant derived from coconut oil that is particularly suitable for sensitive skin.
While Sodium Laureth Sulfates are widely used in many personal care products, they do pose potential health risks and can cause skin irritations. To avoid these undesirable effects, it is recommended to choose body products containing milder alternatives that are gentle on your skin. 🤍
Sources:
Dirty Dozen: https://davidsuzuki.org/living-green/dirty-dozen-sodium-laureth-sulfate/
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: What Are the Dangers? https://www.passeportsante.net/nutrition/additifs-alimentaires?doc=laurylsulfate-sodium-dangers
