Large amounts of nitrates may enter the blood system from just one shampooing. It is slightly less irritating but may cause more drying. Both SLS and SLES can enter the blood stream. They are used in personal-care products because they are cheap. A small amount generates a large amount of foam, and when salt is added it thickens to give the illusion of being thick and concentrated.
Tests show it can be a strong skin irritant.
The spilled acid formed a vaporous cloud, which began drifting on the wind. Two police officers exposed to the vapor were checked out at a hospital and released. There were no other injuries, Jensen said.