Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): This harmful foaming agent has the beauty industry buzzing because of its harmful effects on the body. It is often used in soaps, shampoos, toothpastes and other products to achieve a lather effect. It is a common misconception that products need to foam to be effective. The harshness of this chemical has been proven to create microscopic damage to the oral tissue which lines the inside of your mouth which then leads to Canker Sores.
Silica: This form of sand, commonly found in whitening toothpastes, scratches away at tooth enamel causing irreparable damage to teeth.
Polyethylene: A versatile ingredient seen as an emulsion stabilizer, viscosity increasing agent, and binding agent. It is also used as a toothpaste ingredient because of its ability to polish the teeth thanks to its exfoliating properties. However, warnings suggest that using it on broken skin can lead to toxicity.
Sodium Hydroxide: Commonly used in drain and oven cleaners, this strong corrosive is now appearing in whitening toothpastes causing burns and gastrointestinal ailments.
Propylene Glycol: A common ingredient in many toothpastes and beauty products as a delivery vehicle and solvent, this chemical is used in industry as anti-freeze, airplane de-icer, and brake fluid. Large amounts need to be ingested to cause acute toxicity, but prolonged use also cause harm.
Ammonium Hydroxide: Ammonium hydroxide is found in many industrial products and cleaners such as flooring strippers, brick cleaners, and cements. Prolonged exposure can cause irritation, burns, gastrointestinal and respiratory issues.
