The Worst Ingredients
It’s important to be mindful of what’s in the shampoo you are using. Your hair is extremely delicate, and a lot of shampoos are full of not-so-obvious chemicals that can cause irritation. So with that in mind, here are 5 ingredients to avoid.
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1. Sulfates
Sulfates like SLS are potent detergents that produce a rich lather. They are, however, harsh on both hair and scalp. They strip away natural oils from your hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and more prone to damage.
2. Fragrances
Unlisted fragrance is probably the most popular and alarming shampoo ingredient. It's usually a combination of mystery chemicals that companies don't have to disclose, and many of these are common allergens or hormone disruptors. Since it is unlisted, it's impossible for you to know what you are actually applying to your skin and scalp.
3. Lily Aldehyde
Lily aldehyde (Lilial) is a synthetic fragrance used to produce the smell of lilies. It is associated with skin irritation, allergic reactions, and hormone disruption. Lily aldehyde is known to harm fertility and development and has been banned or restricted in some countries.
4. Parabens
Parabens are preservatives in shampoos to stop the growth of mold and bacteria. This will prolong the shelf life of your shampoo. The problem with parabens is that they act like estrogen in the body. They can cause a buildup that can wreak havoc on your endocrine system.
5. Cocamide
Cocamide DEA is a coconut oil-derived additive that helps create the satisfying foamy lather that many people expect from shampooing. Despite its natural origins, cocamide DEA is a possible carcinogen that can irritate the skin upon contact. The presence of cocamide DEA in personal care products has caused significant health and safety concerns.
