You definitely heard of SLS or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and its evil twin Sodium Laureth Sulfate. You also heard that it might be carcinogenic; in other words can cause cancer or that it can disrupt the hormones and irritate the skin. We found it interesting to investigate a bit further this topic and share with you our findings.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a widely used and inexpensive chemical found in many mainstream personal hygiene products such as shampoos, shower gels, toothpastes and others. In cleansers, they function as surfactants: water- and oil-soluble compounds that, when combined with water, foam and emulsify greasy substances. It offers the beautiful white foam we all love.

Why should you avoid using products that contain SLS? Below are 4 reasons we found extremely important:

1.  Skin irritation. Even in diluted quantities, SLS can be irritating to the skin and scalp. The skin becomes itchy, sore and unbearable to manage until it subsides.
2. Eye irritation. Especially common in the case of kids. When your kids are showering with products containing SLS, they will experience eye irritation and might cry. SLS can also delay healing and children under six years old are especially vulnerable to improper eye development.
3. Damaged hair. Overtime, the use of products that contain SLS can be detrimental to the hair which will lose its ability to retain moisture. The oil-stripping properties of sulfate often strip the natural oils out of the hair, causing it to become brittle, dry and unmanageable.
4. Penetrates into your body. SLS is a penetration enhancer; its molecules are so small they’re able to penetrate the membranes of the body’s cells. Cells become vulnerable to other toxic chemicals it will be exposed to.

Sulfate is commonly found in the ingredients of the following products:

• Soaps
• Shampoos
• Bubble-baths
• Tooth paste
• Washing-up liquid / dish soap
• Laundry detergent
• Children’s soaps / shampoos
• Stain Remover
• Carpet Cleaner
• Fabric glue
• Body wash
• Shave cream
• Mascara
• Mouthwash
• Skin cleanser
• Moisture lotion / Moisturizer
• Sun Cream

Terrifying no? The solution is simple, when purchasing a shampoo, read carefully the back label or make sure it clearly indicates it is sulfate free. Still in doubt? Ask your pharmacist if the product contains Sulfates.
Wondering which brands offer sulfate free products? Our favorite brand is Natessance.

Natessance has decided to eliminate the use of sulfate ingredients from its products’ formulas.  In creating its new generation of products (below are our favorites), Natessance has chosen to use a foaming agent of vegetal origin, derived from coconut oil and sugar. It is gentle on the skin, provides a foaming effect without irritating the skin and drying it out. It has various ranges of products for kids and adults. You will be tempted to try them all.  Give it a try, it is available in all pharmacies. You might fall in love with it, just as we did.