How Long Have Shampoo Companies Been Putting Sodium Lauryl Sulfate in Shampoo?

Companies are required to list all ingredients

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are additives found in most shampoos. It is a chemical which causes foaming, also known as surfactants. SLS and SLES are also found in dishwasher and laundry detergents.

History

Sodium lauryl sulfate was first added to shampoos as early as 1942. Around the time, most homes were using city water. As a result, the chemical diminished grease and oil residue left on the scalp from the mixture of regular soap and hard water.

Identification

The more commonly used names are sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate, but these chemicals can also be named; sodium dodecyl sulfate; sulfuric acid, monodecyl sulfate or sodium salt. If you want to avoid these chemicals be sure to memorize the names so you may identify them on ingredient lists later.

Speculation

These chemicals are under scrutiny for possibly being hazardous, no warning has been issued from the FDA but they have been classified as expected to be harmful by the Canada Domestic Substance List. If you are worried about chemicals, many shampoos are now SLS and SLES free and will say so on the bottle. Read labels carefully.

References

• Cosmetics Database