sodium lauryl sulfate

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Word: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (often abbreviated as SLS)

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: Sodium lauryl sulfate is a chemical compound that acts as a detergent and surfactant. It is commonly used in personal care products like shampoos, toothpastes, and body washes because it helps to create foam and remove grease or dirt. However, it can be harsh on the skin, and it should not be swallowed.

Usage Instructions:

• In Personal Care Products: You will find sodium lauryl sulfate in many shampoos or toothpastes. It helps to clean your hair or teeth by breaking down oils and dirt.
• Caution: Because it can cause skin irritation, people with sensitive skin might want to look for products that do not contain SLS.

Example Sentence:

"When I bought a new shampoo, I checked the label and saw that it contained sodium lauryl sulfate, which is why it lathers so well but might irritate my scalp."

Advanced Usage:

In scientific or cosmetic discussions, sodium lauryl sulfate might be analyzed for its effectiveness in creating foam or its potential side effects. For example: "Research on sodium lauryl sulfate has shown that while it is effective in cleansing, its irritating properties can lead to dermatitis in some individuals."

Word Variants:

• Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): A similar compound that is milder than SLS and often used in personal care products as a safer alternative.
• Lauryl Alcohol: A fatty alcohol that is sometimes derived from the same source as SLS and used in cosmetics.

Different Meanings:

While sodium lauryl sulfate primarily refers to the specific chemical compound used in cleaning products, it doesn't have different meanings in other contexts.

Synonyms:

• Surfactant: A general term for substances that reduce surface tension and help to mix oil and water.
• Detergent: A broader term for cleaning agents, which may or may not include SLS.

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to sodium lauryl sulfate, but here are some general phrases that may apply: - "Lather up": To create a foam or lather, often used when discussing the application of soaps or shampoos. - "Wash away": To remove dirt or impurities, which is the function of sodium lauryl sulfate in cleaning products.

Summary:

Sodium lauryl sulfate is a common ingredient in many cleaning and personal care products. While it is effective at removing dirt and grease, caution should be taken due to its potential to irritate the skin.

Academic

Noun

1. a caustic detergent useful for removing grease; although commonly included in personal care items (shampoos and toothpastes etc.) it can irritate skin and should not be swallowed

Synonyms

• sodium lauryl sulphate
• SLS