I don't use soap to wash my vulva anymore. Why? Sodium lauryl sulfate. It is a primary ingredient in most cleansers. Really, walk into your bathroom and read your labels.
What does it do? As a surfactant, it creates lather in shampoos and soaps to create a satisfying customer experience. Sodium lauryl sulfate is a known skin irritant. And although most people do not have a response, anyone with chronic skin hypersensitivity might consider avoiding this.
Another two products called sodium laureth sulfate and ammonia laurly sulfate are also found in the same kinds of skin products. The research on these is less comprehensive and less condemning, but they are still dermatological irritants and I avoid them along with sodium lauryl sulfate.
Common skin products that contain sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate are:
What does it do? As a surfactant, it creates lather in shampoos and soaps to create a satisfying customer experience. Sodium lauryl sulfate is a known skin irritant. And although most people do not have a response, anyone with chronic skin hypersensitivity might consider avoiding this.
Even Cetaphil, the touted non-soap cleanser for sensitive skin, has this ingredient.
Use water only and a microfiber cloth which will give you traction on the hood. Be gentle. The Dollar Store sells (3) for $1!
Another two products called sodium laureth sulfate and ammonia laurly sulfate are also found in the same kinds of skin products. The research on these is less comprehensive and less condemning, but they are still dermatological irritants and I avoid them along with sodium lauryl sulfate.
Common skin products that contain sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate are:
- Shampoos - lots of alternatives now! look for "sulfate-free."
- Soaps and body wash- I use shampoo, but there are many products.
- Bubble-bath - don't do it.
- Toothpaste - Sensodyne
- Moisturizer
- Shaving cream
- Mouthwash
