Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Ammonium Laureth Sulfate are used in cosmetic products as cleansing agents, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and solubilizers. The ingredients have been shown to produce eye and/or skin irritation in experimental animals and in some human test subjects; irritation may occur in some users of cosmetic formulations containing the ingredients under consideration. The irritant effects are similar to those produced by other detergents, and the severity of the irritation appears to increase directly with concentration. However, Sodium and Ammonium Laureth Sulfate have not evoked adverse responses in any other toxicological testing. On the basis of available information, the Panel concludes that Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Ammonium Laureth Sulfate are safe as presently used in cosmetic products.
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