Triclosan in Liquid Soap – What Does it Do?
Liquid soaps have become more and more popular in the past 15 years, both in the home and in public places such as hospitals and toilet facilities. They are now firmly resident in kitchens and bathrooms up and down the country. And for good reason; they are less prone to bacterial growth than bar soap and are less messy too. However, have you ever wondered what goes into the liquid soaps you so often use? Some people find them drying on the skin and experience skin irritation after using them. This is known as contact dermatitis and it is particularly common in those who use liquid soaps regularly as part of their job; perhaps in a hospital or kitchen, where cleanliness is vital. SLS and Triclosan in liquid soap There are two chemicals often used in liquid soaps which are responsible for most cases of contact dermatitis. The first of these is Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS), a foaming agent used in many personal care products. As well as liquid soap, you’ll find it in shampoo, shower gel,
