Is It Best To Avoid Shampoo That Contains Lauryl Sulfate?

Using shampoo regularly is an important part of keeping your hair and scalp healthy.  However, the shampoos that you use might actually be causing you long-term harm.

One of the main ingredients in most brands of commercial shampoos is lauryl sulfate.  This ingredient is a detergent, and is also used to create a rich lather.  However, that might not be all that it is doing.

One of the problems with this shampoo ingredient is that it can deteriorate cell membranes.  Studies have also found that it can be absorbed readily into the body through the scalp when using a shampoo that contains it.  Within the body, it can build up noticeable levels in the liver, the lungs and even the brain.  Some studies indicate that it can be a cause of immune system damage, and it is a known skin irritant.

Obviously, this is not an ingredient that you really want in your shampoo.  If you choose to find a product that is free of lauryl sulfate, there are some things that you should know, though. 

For instance, those detergents listed as "gentler" are often just as bad.  Sodium laureth sulfate and cocamide DEA have both been shown to have carcinogenic properties.  In addition, these ingredients have been shown to cause cancer in some laboratory animal testing.

There are many brands of shampoo available that do not contain this harmful ingredient, but you will need to carefully read the label.  Never assume that a product labeled as "organic" is safe, either – always check the ingredient list.