Can Sodium Lauryl Sulfate cause similar reaction as PG?

[findtheanswernow]

My son is allergic is PG - confirmed through patch testing. I've been VERY careful to avoid any medications that include PG as ingredient (which is challenging!). I'm noticing that my son's face is frequently red and splotchy (a reaction he used to get when he took medication that had PG in it). In playing detective to figure it out, I see that his medication includes Sodium Lauryl Sulfate - which apparently causes allergic reactions for many people (listed as "Allergen of the year 2004). Just wondering if other people out there have a similar sensitivity or reactions to SLS as they do to PG.

[Ceramista]

Hi.

As far as I studied Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and PG are different, the sulfate removes the lipids that form a protective layer on the skin.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate is similar because it contains a PEG molecule in the structure.

[kerrykuzak]

I agree that sodium LAURETH sulfate (SLES) is probably the worse of the sulfate compounds since SLES is derived from sodium LAURYL sulfate (SLS) through a process where ethylene oxide is introduced to the compound. I believe, however, since they are so closely related, they need to be avoided since the potential as a skin irritant is great.

[Ceramista in reply to kerrykuzak]

Hi Kerry

I have never mastered chemistry but I am trying to learn and I have no one to help me. Your explanation makes sense, but if so I don't understand the list of synonyms presented on this site:

ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient...

Is it not a source of trust? I am sincerely confused.

[kerrykuzak in reply to Ceramista]

Hey Ceramista! I honestly don't know what the EWG is saying about the sulfates synonyms but from what I've read, the skin care product people started making/using SLES as a surfactant in their products because it was "milder" (but not for PEG people!). Many people find SLS a skin irritant. Both sulfates are probably derived from petroleum oil which I avoid at all costs.

[kerrykuzak in reply to Ceramista]

If you would like me to send you a paper I wrote entitled, "Living with a PG/PEG Allergy", email me at [e-mail].