Commercials always mention the bright sides of their products and make us believe that their products are the best on the market. And while we’re spending a lot of time and money on our hair to make sure it looks great and healthy, have you ever turned the package around and really understood what is in it before spending your money?
Some ingredients are harmful to your hair and if your scalp absorbs it, can become harmful to your body as well. Here are the top 7 ingredients that you should look out for and avoid in your hair care products.
1. Parabens
Parabens are a group of preservative ingredients that are widely used in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. As a preservative, parabens prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mould and give products a longer shelf-life.
Why is it harmful? Paraben is used widely because it is extremely effective and cost little to produce. Little people know that a large amount of paraben has been found in breast cancer cells. The answer is still unclear if parabens can lead to an increased risk of cancer, but you should stay safe and look for paraben-free products.
What to look for? The most common types of parabens are Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben, and Propylparaben.
2. Sulphates
Sulphates are a detergent that is commonly found in products like shampoos, which allows the shampoo to lather up. The foam created by sulphate is extremely effective in remove oil and dirt from your hair and leaves your scalp and hair feeling completely clean.
Why it is harmful? Firstly, sulphates may cause skin and eye irritation. Sulphate is also an aggressive chemical that can strips away all the natural oils in your hair and makes it look dull and damaged. This leads to unhealthy hair and split ends.
What to look for? Common sulphates are Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS), and Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLES).
3. Silicones
Silicones are a class of compounds that act as a raincoat for your hair, they lock out humidity, reduce frizz and leave your hair smooth. They are commonly found in hair care products as they are cheap but effective in making your hair have a shiny look.
Why is it harmful? Silicones seal in the water but can also block out moisture and nutrients from penetrating the hair shaft which will end up drying out your hair over time.
What to look for? Generally, anything ending in “-cone” is a form of silicone. Common silicones are Dimethicone, Amodimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Phenyltrimethicone.
4. Alcohol
Most hair care products contain alcohol as it is used for evaporation qualities. Alcohol is toxic when used directly in your hair as it causes a major drying effect. This is because it takes moisture out of your hair resulting in split ends and breakage.
Why is it harmful? Although alcohol is technically safe for use in cosmetics, avoid using products with alcohol will help your hair stay healthy and hydrated in the long term. It is best to avoid hair products with alcohol listed on the top of ingredients because that means this product has a high percentage of alcohol in it.
What to look for? Some common short-chain alcohol in hair care products is SD alcohol, Ethanol, Propanol, Propyl alcohol, Isopropyl alcohol.
5. Phthalates
Phthalates are chemical compounds that are commonly used to make plastics flexible and to lubricate cosmetics. Phthalates are used in hair products such as hair loss shampoo, hairspray, hair gel. Any items listed as “fragrance” in hair care products usually contain phthalates.
Why is it harmful? There is research suggest that phthalate can be harmful to human health. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, and exposure to phthalates has been linked to breast cancer, developmental issues, decreased fertility, obesity, and asthma (via Breast Cancer Prevention Partners Organisation). If you want to avoid it completely then look for products that are labelled fragrance and phthalate-free.
What to look for? Common phthalates are Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), Dimethyl Phthalate (DMP), and Diethyl Phthalate (DEP).
6. Mineral oil
Mineral oil is liquid paraffin derived from petroleum. It is a cost-efficient, moisturizing oil that is used as a common ingredient in hair treatments.
Why is it harmful? Mineral oil works by coating the surface of the hair strands delivering a good appearance but not a remedy for damaged hair. The side effects can lead to dryness instead of protection.
What to look for? Common names are Mineral oil, Paraffinum Liquidum, Petrolatum, Paraffin, White Petroleum.
7. Ethanolamine compounds
Ethanolamines – the popular are DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (monoethanolamine), and TEA (triethanolamine) - are present in many consumer products ranging from cosmetics to personal care products that foam like shampoo, facial cleansers, body washes.
Why is it harmful? Researchers found that DEA increases the risk of cancer in animals, however, the effects on humans are unclear. The European Commission has banned DEA in cosmetics.
What to look for? Avoid products containing with words DEA, TEA, and MEA in their ingredients.
So now you know what to look out for in the ingredients, you can find a healthy hair product that not only makes your hair look great but keeps your body and hair free of toxins. While it is difficult to avoid all the harsh chemical ingredients, it’s important you set your standards and limit the amount of toxic that your body is exposed to. Healthy beauty awaits you.
StyleHQ hair & beauty online store is 100% NZ owned and operated, based in Auckland. We believe everyone deserves to feel beautiful. At StyleHQ, you’ll find literally thousands of genuine products from 60+ global brands at the best prices. Browse our brands R+Co, Aluram, fave4 and more for Paraben and Sulphate-free products. SHOP NOW >>