Over the past few years you may have received a chain e-mail or have read other articles about the evils of chemicals called SLS or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and its sister Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) and are wondering if it’s just another scare tactic. Well, in fact it is, but for good reason.

Both Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate are commonly used in many soaps, shampoos, detergents, toothpastes and other products to make them bubbly and foamy and to enhance the users experience and perception of product efficiency (“you just need a little to go a long way”) and efficacy. These chemicals are essentially used as foaming agents, chemically known as surfactants.

A report published in the Journal of The American College of Toxicology http://www.natural-health-information-centre.com/sls-JACT-report.html as far back as 1983 showed that even in low use concentrations, high skin penetration can occur causing skin irritation. The report also indicates that carcinogenic nitrates can form in the manufacture of these chemicals causing permanent eye damage and irritation. Other effects include hormonal interruptions and damage to the immune system by denaturing or breaking down of the proteins in cell membranes allowing easier access of harsh chemicals to the sensitive layers of our skin. Can you imagine the effect that these chemicals have on the sensitive skin of newborns and children?

The question is that if we have known about these negative effects for the past 27 years, how is it we still find them in our everyday products?

The answer is plain & simple - it is cheap.

Well, money is what makes the world go round, or so they tell us. (who are “they” anyway?) Unfortunately, many harmful chemicals such as SLS are not regulated by government and other regulatory bodies. The point is, that each one of us as an informed member of society are responsible for holding manufacturers accountable. We can do this by refusing to support this cheap way to make a buck and put our money where our mouth is. We can seek out information on safe and healthy alternatives and make the smart decision at the shelf.

Now that you know, what will you do?

Please visit Skin Deep at: www.cosmeticsdatabase.com. Put the products in your home to the test and learn more.

If you are looking for healthy and naturally pure alternatives for your children’s bath & body care, please visit www.cocoandtini.com. Coco & Tini does not use SLS, parabens, or artificial fragrances or preservatives. Clean. Natural. Simple.