What Are the Dangers of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate?
Sodium lauryl sulfate is a substance commonly used in cosmetic products, such as soaps, shampoos and facial scrubs, to act as an emulsifier and to control the growth of microorganisms. The substance also has applications in industrial cleaners, food and toothpaste. Following the release of toxicity data published by studies under the U.S. National Toxicology Program (NTP), the use of sodium lauryl sulfate in cosmetic products became controversial as many consumer action groups called for a more detailed review of the substance’s possible toxic effects. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Sodium lauryl sulfate, in its pure form, is a white powder. Typically, in industry, the substance is identified by its chemical name–sulfuric acid, monododecyl ester, sodium salt–and its Chemical Abstracts Number (CAS), 151-21-3. Acute Exposures Many of the hazards associated with sodium lauryl sulfate are indicated for exposure to high doses of the concentrated substance. These hazards include effects on the resp
