Sulfates are salts that form when sulfuric acid reacts with another chemical, and they are found in various synthetic sulfate-based chemicals, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)
. These compounds are produced from petroleum and plant sources like coconut and palm oil
. Sulfates are widely used in household products and personal care items due to their ability to create lather and clean surfaces
. Some common products containing sulfates include:
- Liquid soap
- Shampoos
- Laundry detergents
- Dish detergents
- Toothpaste
- Bath bombs
Sulfates are surfactants, which means they can attract both oil and water. One end of the molecule clings to the oily dirt, while the other clings to water
. They are used as detergents in various applications, helping liquids turn into a lather and removing dirt, oil, and product buildup from our bodies
. However, there are concerns about the use of sulfates in personal care and cleaning products. Some individuals may experience skin irritation or other adverse reactions to sulfates
. Additionally, sulfates can disrupt the natural biome of our skin and hair
. If you are concerned about skin irritation or the environmental impact of sulfates, you can opt for sulfate-free products or those that do not list SLS or SLES in their ingredients
