Have you ever stood in the hair care aisle at your local store wondering which shampoo brand to buy? There are endless options, each promising shiny hair and luscious locks. I’ve been there, and I know it can be confusing sometimes.
What I learned recently is that it’s essential to check out the ingredients. With the growing awareness of avoiding harmful components, it’s become important to know what goes into the products you put on your body.
Today, I’m giving you details about what ingredients to avoid in shampoo. When you know what to look out for, you become able to make better choices when it comes to your hair and body health.
So, here’s a list of seven chemicals to avoid.
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1. Sulfates
One of the most common terms you hear when looking for a natural shampoo is “sulfate-free,” but what are sulfates exactly?
In simple words, sulfates, like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), are lathering agents that clean the scalp.
Sadly, these chemicals can be damaging, as they strip away natural oils from your hair. Consequently, they may lead to dryness and irritation, especially for sensitive skin.
2. Parabens
Parabens (butyl, propyl, and ethyl parabens) are preservatives used to prevent bacterial growth and extend the shelf life of hair care products.
What makes this compound harmful is its ability to mimic estrogen in the body.
Such a function may potentially lead to hormonal imbalance and, subsequently, increase the risk of breast cancer.
3. Phthalates
Phthalates are used in many products to improve spreadability and enhance their texture. They’re also responsible for making fragrance and color stick to your hair.
However, these chemicals can have severe effects on the body. This includes disrupting the reproductive system, causing birth defects, and increasing the risk of miscarriages, among other issues.
4. Formaldehyde Releasers
Many hair care products contain some kinds of preservatives that release a gas called formaldehyde.
While these chemicals help mitigate bacterial growth in these products, they can be extremely toxic.
Principally, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. That’s why experts recommend using products that are labeled “formaldehyde-free.”
Some of the most common formaldehyde releasers include:
- Quaternium-15
- Imidazolidinyl urea
- Sodium hydroxymethyl glycinate
- Polyoxymethylene urea
- Diazolidinyl urea
5. Triclosan
Another preservative on the list of antimicrobial agents, triclosan is one of the compounds to avoid.
While it’s no longer found in soap bars, it’s still used in some deodorants, toothpaste, and shampoos.
Just like sulfates and phthalates, triclosan is a hormone disruptor. With prolonged use, it can decrease thyroid hormones.
It may also accumulate inside fat cells over time, lead to problems in the immune system, or even cause mood swings.
6. Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs)
Polyethylene glycols are petroleum-based chemicals responsible for making the shampoo thick and solvent.
While this type of compound may not be toxic per se, it carries many harmful by-products.
Principally, PEGs can be contaminated with impurities such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane (both of which are potential carcinogens).
On top of that, they can strip natural oils from your hair, leaving it dry and prone to breakage.
7. Synthetic Fragrances and Dyes
Of course, the lovely smell and eye-catching color of your shampoo aren’t natural. You have no idea about the toxins they use to create these artificial fragrances and dyes.
Sometimes, these synthetic fragrances contain chemicals that can cause asthma attacks, reproductive issues, or even cancer.
As for colors, they may lead to skin irritation, allergic reactions, and scalp sensitivity.
In most cases, you’ll find those harmful compounds labeled on the shampoo bottle as “FD&C or D&C.” So, be careful if you notice those terms among the ingredients.
Best Natural Shampoo Brands
Selecting a natural shampoo can have a significant impact on the health of your hair, scalp, and body.
Therefore, when shopping for a new shampoo bottle, I’d recommend searching for products that use eco-friendly ingredients.
Here are some of the best natural shampoos on the market:
Avalon Organics Therapy Biotin B-Complex Thickening Shampoo
This is a great shampoo, especially for those suffering from thinning hair. It contains many ingredients that strengthen hair strands and reduce breakage.
SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Shampoo
Formulated with Manuka honey, Mafura oil, and fig extract, this shampoo deeply nourishes and hydrates dry, damaged hair.
It’s a perfect choice for curly and coily hair but may weigh down finer hair types.
Acure Curiously Clarifying Shampoo
Acure Curiously Clarifying shampoo is crafted to cleanse buildup from the hair and scalp.
It’s infused with deeply hydrating argan oil and has a spectacular lemongrass scent.
Did you know about all these ingredients to avoid in shampoo? Let me know in the comments and also if you have any favorite natural shampoo brands.