Shampoos Without Sodium Laureth Sulfate

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) can be found in a large number of shampoos, cosmetics and even in toothpastes. Sodium lauryl sulfate is basically a detergent, and only a few shampoos do not contain this ingredient. A shampoo without sodium lauryl sulfate is usually more expensive. The hair care products, as well as cosmetics and beauty products contain this chemical for its emulsifying and cleansing properties. Besides this, sodium lauryl sulfate is quite cheap, and produces a thick and rich lather. Sodium laureth sulfate is another common ingredient found in hair and personal care items, and is known as a cousin of sodium lauryl sulfate. It is often considered as less irritating and gentler than sodium lauryl sulfate. But still, SLS can also damage the hair and the skin and hence, it is one of the ingredients to be avoided in shampoos and hair care items.

Dangers of Sodium Laureth and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Both sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate can irritate the skin. Shampoos or hair care products with these ingredients make the scalp dry by removing oil from it. Moreover, SLS can remain in the tissues for a long time. This can result in skin and hair damage. The hair follicles can get adversely affected by these two chemicals.

Shampoos with high concentration of SLS can cause hair loss, and dry and brittle hair. This chemical can also cause skin irritation and itching. In recent times, concerns have been expressed that this chemical may get absorbed through skin. If it happens then it can cause several health problems other than just skin dryness and irritation. It can imitate the activity of the hormone estrogen, which can prove harmful for the health of both men and women.

Shampoos without SLS

With so many dangers associated with SLS and sodium lauryl sulfate, it's no wonder that more and more individuals are searching for safe shampoos. However, there is another chemical that is deemed as harmful, but can be found in many cosmetics and hair care products. That is paraben. It is basically a preservative, which if enters the body through the skin can mimic the hormone estrogen. Though the exact health effects of paraben are not known with certainty, it may be wise to opt for the shampoos without these chemicals.

The shampoos and hair care products that do not contain these chemicals can be a little more expensive, but they are much more gentler on the hair and the scalp, like:

• Alba Botanica Shampoo
• Aubrey Organics
• Pureology
• Avalon Organics
• Valley Green Naturals shampoo
• Max Green Alchemy
• Alaffia
• Jason
• Superstar (from the brand Bed Head)
• Foxy Curls (from Bed Head brand)
• Elave
• Beauty Without Cruelty
• John Masters
• Burt's Bees
• EO
• Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Moisturizing Shampoo
• Kiss My Face
• Ultimate Shampoo
• Logona Shampoo
• Giovanni
• ABBA True Curls
• Treasured Locks

Finally, be sure to use only mild shampoos and hair care products, and make sure that they do not contain any harsh chemicals. For this, always read the label of the product and check the various ingredients before making any purchases. Such simple steps can be of immense help in avoiding harmful chemicals in hair and skin care products and cosmetics.