Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) also known as sodium laurilsulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium myreth sulfate or sodium lauryl sulfate(SLS) is an organic compound originally derived from inexpensive coconut and palm oils most is now synthesized. It has now been shown that all tested batchs of this product contains dioxane. Many consider dioxane to be the strongest known cancer causing agent. While tests show only low levels of dioxane it should be noted that it is accumulated and stored in the body for years. Used in many food and drug applications companies are now scrambling to find a replacement. Used in cosmetics as well and yes it can be absorbed through the skin.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11417628
1,4-Dioxane Contamination
The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics maintains that sodium laureth sulfate requires processing with other chemicals to reduce harshness. Ethylene oxide applied to SLES can result in 1,4-dioxane--a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency known carcinogen. Acute inhalation exposure ranging from a few minutes to a few hours, causes headache, vertigo and irritation to the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics recommends avoiding products that list sodium laureth sulfate, including sodium myreth sulfate, as an ingredient. Although many personal care product manufacturers insist that only a little amount of 1,4-dioxane is present in items such as baby shampoo and body wash, it is prudent to recognize that exposure to this carcinogen may pose a threat to your health.
shown links to:
- Irritation of the skin and eyes
- Organ toxicity
- Developmental/reproductive toxicity
- Neurotoxicity, endocrine disruption, ecotoxicology, and biochemical or cellular changes
- Possible mutations and cancer