When it comes to our hair care routines, many of us meticulously inspect labels, looking for products that promise luscious locks and a healthy scalp.
However, choosing a truly safe shampoo is often easier said than done. Many of the products you see on store shelves sneakily contain ingredients that could harm your health or cause irritation.
To steer you in the right direction, we’ve created a list of bad shampoo ingredients you definitely want to ban from your hair care. If you see any of these listed on the back of your product, it’s time to make a switch.
(1) Sulfates
You’ll often see ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) on the hair product aisles. Sulfates like these are used in many shampoos to help create a rich, foamy lather.
However, research has shown that sulfates can have several adverse effects on both your hair and scalp.
One of the primary concerns is their ability to strip away the natural oils that keep your scalp and hair hydrated. These oils, known as sebum, are essential for maintaining the moisture balance of your scalp and preventing dryness.
Research also indicates that sulfates can cause irritation by removing too much sebum. This can lead to issues such as itching, flakiness, and even conditions like dermatitis or eczema.
Moreover, sulfates can damage your hair by stripping away the protective outer layer known as the cuticle. This can result in hair that is dry, brittle, and more prone to breakage and split ends.
All in all, it’s better to choose shampoos that are free from sulfates and other harsh detergents. Opt for sulfate-free hair care products to help protect your scalp and hair from unnecessary damage.
(2) Parabens
In recent years, you’ve probably seen dozens of news headlines positioning parabens as a problematic beauty ingredient. Let’s talk about why.
Parabens are a group of synthetic chemicals commonly used as preservatives in various cosmetics and personal care products, including shampoos. They are added to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast, thus extending the shelf life of these products.
However, scientists have brought up some serious concerns about the safety of parabens, largely due to their ability to mimic estrogen.
Research suggests that parabens can act as endocrine disruptors. Estrogen, in particular, regulates various physiological processes, including reproduction, growth, and development. When external substances like parabens mimic estrogen, they can bind to estrogen receptors in cells, potentially disrupting normal hormone function.
Furthermore, several studies have raised concerns about the potential influence of parabens on users’ risk of breast cancer.
According to Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, it’s likely that parabens can increase cell growth while decreasing cell death, which is one way the body deals with damaged cells. They may also decrease the ability of chemotherapy agents to treat breast cancer.
Other research has indicated that parabens can accumulate in the body over time, as they are absorbed through the skin and can be metabolized slowly. This raises concerns about the potential long-term effects of repeated exposure.
While regulatory agencies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have deemed parabens safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations, the accumulating body of research suggests the need for continued vigilance and scrutiny – so you might want to steer clear.
(3) Phthalates
Next on our list of bad shampoo ingredients are phthalates, a group of chemicals commonly used to enhance fragrances and increase flexibility in hair products.
Although these compounds have been widely used in America for more than 50 years, recent research has raised significant concerns about the potential health effects of phthalate exposure, particularly in relation to reproductive health and development.
Like parabens, studies have shown that phthalates have the potential to interfere with the endocrine system. This can lead to hormonal imbalances, which in turn may contribute to reproductive issues, such as reduced fertility, menstrual irregularities, and even pregnancy complications.
Furthermore, research has suggested that exposure to phthalates during critical periods of development, such as during pregnancy or early childhood, may have long-lasting effects on reproductive and developmental health.
Because of the potential risks, some have called for the use of phthalates to be banned throughout the United States. Although this is unlikely to happen soon, many consumers only trust shampoos and other products that are labeled “phthalate-free.”
(4) Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
Lastly, let’s talk about formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. These are commonly found in personal care products, including shampoos, and are concerning for many reasons.
Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas known to be a human carcinogen, meaning it has the potential to cause cancer in humans. Although most companies aren’t pumping formaldehyde straight into their products, many do use preservatives that slowly release formaldehyde over time as they break down.
As you assess your shampoo options, look out for any of these formaldehyde-releasing preservative ingredients:
- DMDM Hydantoin
- Imidazolidinyl Urea
- Diazolidinyl Urea
- Quaternium-15
- Bronopol (2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol)
Aside from being a known carcinogen, formaldehyde is a potent irritant to the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. Even at low levels of exposure, it can cause irritation and allergic reactions, leading to discomfort and potential long-term health issues.
Individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions may be particularly sensitive to formaldehyde exposure, experiencing exacerbated symptoms or difficulty breathing.
Looking for Shampoos You Can Trust?
We get it – it can be frustrating and time-consuming to avoid bad shampoo ingredients.
That’s why Original Sprout believes in creating hair products that are effective and safe for your family. Our shampoos are free from all of the potentially harmful ingredients we listed in this post.
Instead, we use gentle ingredients that nourish and strengthen your hair without compromising your health. We’re also passionate about producing vegan products that are truly cruelty-free.
Make the switch to Original Sprout and experience the difference that safe, non-toxic hair care can make for your wellness and peace of mind.
Got questions? Send us a message.