Like many personal care products, dish soaps are packed with synthetic chemicals that can pose health concerns. Here are a few key ingredients to watch out for:

1. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laurel Ether Sulfate (SLES): These are surfactants used to create foam and reduce surface tension. Both SLS and SLES can disrupt the nervous system, hormone systems, and normal cell chemistry. They’re often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen linked to liver and kidney damage. While SLES is slightly less harsh than SLS, it can still cause similar issues.
2. Fragrances: Many dish soaps contain synthetic fragrances to mask the smell of cleaning. These fragrances can contain phthalates, a group of chemicals that disrupt hormone systems and may cause developmental issues.
3. Preservatives: Ingredients like methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT) are used to prevent bacterial growth. Both can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and may even affect the nervous system.
4. Dyes: Some dish soaps contain synthetic dyes, which can potentially cause allergic reactions and may be contaminated with heavy metals like lead or mercury.

To mitigate these risks, consider switching to natural, organic dish soaps. These are typically free from these harsh chemicals and contain plant-derived ingredients that are gentler on your skin and the environment. Always check the label, and if you can’t pronounce or recognize the ingredients, it might be a synthetic chemical. Additionally, you can make your own dish soap at home using simple, natural ingredients like castile soap, water, and essential oils for fragrance. This not only reduces your exposure to toxins but also supports your personal liberty and self-reliance.”