What is it?

Sodium laureth sulfate sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) is used in various cosmetic products, but especially shampoos. It is an inexpensive foaming agent with emulsifying and cleansing properties.

Why is it harmful?

Studies have shown that SLES is a skin irritant first and foremost and has a host of other harmful effects on the body:

• SLES in shampoos can cause eye-irritation. A lot of shampoos containing SLES come with ‘avoid contact with eye’ labels. Labels also mention that you must consult a doctor if eye irritation persists after washing with cold water.
• SLES cleans dries out scalp skin by stripping the protective lipids on the surface. This way, moisture cannot be regulated and you are left with flaky, dry scalp. SLES can cause hair loss by attacking the hair follicles.
• Studies have also shown that SLES is bioaccumulate, which means that the chemical remains and accumulates in your body for a long time. Moreover, your body needs to work extremely hard to detoxify this chemical.
• SLES has the ability to easily penetrate to through the skin and cause harmful effects on other vital organs in the body, such as heart, lungs and the brain.
• Currently, the carcinogenic properties of SLES are being researched upon, but the chemical has been implicated in cancer due to its mutagenic properties.

Have you tried Himalaya shampoos?

• Himalaya’s wide ranges of shampoos contain 100% herbal actives
• Shampoos are free from SLES, silicones, sulphates and parabens
• The shampoos contain foaming agent derived from natural ingredients. This natural foaming agent is safe and gentle on the hair and scalp, protecting the hair’s natural keratin. The natural foaming agent also smoothens hair and cleans effectively yet gently.