Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) is a common surfactant used in many personal care products, including shampoos, soaps, and toothpaste. While it helps to create a lather and remove dirt and oil from the skin and hair, it can also be harsh and irritating to the skin and scalp, causing dryness and itching3. Here are two comments from trusted medical sources that confirm this:
- According to the American Academy of Dermatology, “Sodium lauryl sulfate is a common ingredient in many shampoos that creates a lather to help remove dirt and oil from your hair. However, it can also strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle”.
- The National Eczema Association also notes that “Sodium lauryl sulfate is a common ingredient in many personal care products, but it can be irritating to the skin and scalp, especially for people with eczema”.
It is important to choose gentle and effective products that are free from harsh chemicals like SLS to maintain the health of your scalp and hair.