Surface-active-agents are substances capable of dissolving oils and holding dirt in suspension so it can be rinsed away with water. They are used in skin cleansers and shampoos.
A serious problem with ethoxylated surfactants (those that utilise ethylene or propylene oxide in the chemical reaction) is that they can be contaminated with dioxane, a potent carcinogen. These surfactants are listed on labels as ingredients ending with –eth, (like laureth) or containing the phrase PEG (PolyEthylene Glycol), or PPG (PolyPropylene Glycol).
Another dangerous class of surfactants are amides. These are listed on labels containing the term TEA – TriEthanolAmine, DEA – DiEthanolAmine and MEA, MonoEthanolAmine. All compounds containing TEA, DEA and MEA can undergo nitrosation with other chemicals to form nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic. One study has found that over 40% of products containing triethanolamine (TEA) were contaminated with these potent carcinogens.
Natural saponins (foaming agents) are a much better choice for shampoos. They gently cleanse the hair and scalp without stripping the natural oils.
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Some Synthetic Surfactants
Sodium or Ammonium Lauryl or Laureth
Sulphate
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Sodium Lauroyl or Cocoyl Sarcosinate
Cocomidopropyl Betaine
TEA (Triethanolamine) compounds
DEA (Diethanolamine) compounds
MEA (Monethanolamine) compounds
PEG (Polyethylene Glycol) compounds
Quaternium -7, 15, 31, 60 etc
Lauryl or Cocoyl Sarcosine
Disodium Oleamide or Dioctyl Sulfosuccinate etc.
Some Natural Surfactants
Castile Soap
Yucca Extract
Soapwort
Quillaja Bark Extract
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