If its making has been correctly processed, natural handmade soap is absolutely biodegradable and can’t do any harm, contrary to many commercially-produced soaps.
Commercially-produced soap pollution
Indeed, risks come from commercially-produced soaps which can pollute environment. Additives in those soaps can be more or less polluting.
Some chelating agents (for thwarting hard water effects) such as EDTA, are poisons that can entail bioaccumulation.
However, one of the most serious risks comes from preservatives which are extremely difficult to recycle.
Other risks from commercially-produced soaps
Some fragrances, such as linalool, may cause inflammatory reactions.
Both Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and its close relative Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are commonly used in many soaps, shampoos, detergents, toothpastes and other products that we expect to “foam up”. Both chemicals are very effective foaming agents, chemically known as surfactants. However, lather does not improve at all soap washing property. It is no more than a psychological element.
Although SLES is somewhat less irritating than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, it cannot be metabolised by the liver and its effects are therefore much longer-lasting.
A report published in the Journal of The American College of Toxicology in 1983 showed that concentrations as low as 0.5% could cause irritation and concentrations of 10-30% caused skin corrosion and severe irritation. National Institute of Health “Household Products Directory” of chemical ingredients lists over 80 products that contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. Some soaps have concentrations of up to 30%, which the ACT report called “highly irritating and dangerous”.
Shampoos are among the most frequently reported products to the FDA. Reports include eye irritation, scalp irritation, tangled hair, swelling of the hands, face and arms and split and fuzzy hair.
The main cause of these problems is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.
To find out the details on how to make your own natural homemade soap, follow this link to Soap Making Technique.
