Toxic Chemicals Hiding in Your Shampoo and Conditioner

Toxic Chemicals Hiding in Your Shampoo and Conditioner

Navigating the World of Toxic Chemicals in Shampoo and Conditioner

Being aware of toxic chemicals in hair care products is crucial for your overall well-being. Many conventional hair care products contain toxic chemicals that can have adverse effects on your health. Some ingredients, like certain sulfates, parabens, and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, have been linked to various health issues, including allergies, hormonal disruptions, and even carcinogenic effects. Toxic chemicals can lead to skin irritation, particularly on the scalp. Ingredients like harsh sulfates and certain preservatives may cause dryness, redness, itching, and flakiness.

Some chemicals found in hair care products, such as parabens and phthalates, have been identified as endocrine disruptors. These substances may mimic or interfere with the body's hormones, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances. Some ingredients, such as formaldehyde-releasing agents and certain coal tar derivatives used in hair dyes, have been classified as potential carcinogens. Prolonged exposure to these substances may increase the risk of developing cancer.

The cumulative exposure to toxic chemicals over time can have long-term effects on your health. Choosing products with safer ingredients is a proactive measure to reduce potential health risks in the future. As awareness of toxic chemicals in personal care products grows, many brands now offer natural and organic alternatives. These products use plant-based ingredients and exclude harmful chemicals, providing a safer option for consumers.

In summary, being informed about toxic chemicals in hair care products empowers you to make healthier choices for both yourself and the environment. Reading product labels, understanding the potential risks associated with certain ingredients, and opting for cleaner alternatives contribute to a safer and more sustainable approach to hair care.


Here are some ingredients you will want to avoid:

  • Sulfates (e.g., Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate): These are commonly used as cleansing agents in shampoos. They can strip natural oils from the hair and scalp, leading to dryness, allergic reactions, frizzy hair, and irritation. It also can kill the hair follicles and potentially cause hormonal disruptions with prolonged use.

  • Parabens (e.g., Methylparaben, Propylparaben): Parabens are preservatives used to extend the shelf life of products and they mimic estrogen. They have been linked to disrupting your hormones, breast cancer, and skin irritation. 

  • Phthalates (e.g., Diethyl Phthalate, Dibutyl Phthalate): Phthalates are sometimes found in fragrances and can act as plasticizers. They have been linked to endocrine disruption and are a subject of concern, especially when used in products with extended skin contact. They can potentially cause early puberty in girls and reduce sperm count in men.

  • Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (e.g., DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15, Bronopol, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Diazolidinyl Urea): These chemicals slowly release formaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen and cancer. Commonly found in hair dye, chemical straighteners, and shampoo & conditioner.

  • Artificial Fragrances: Synthetic fragrances in hair care products can contain numerous undisclosed chemicals, which may cause allergies or skin sensitivities in some individuals. Unfortunately, companies are allowed to withhold information about fragrance ingredients under existing regulations. Unless they disclose the ingredients that make up the "fragrance" and show they are non-toxic I would stick with unscented or fragrance free.

  • Colorants (e.g., FD&C colorants): Synthetic colorants used in shampoos and conditioners can sometimes cause allergic reactions in people with sensitivities or allergies. Synthetic colors are derived from coal tar or petroleum. These colors can have surprising origins and potential health risks.

  • Silicones (e.g., Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone): While silicones can provide a smooth and shiny appearance to hair, they can also build up over time and make hair feel heavy or greasy. They can also clog your hair follicles and cause irritation.

  • Cocamide DEA/MEA: These chemicals are used as foaming agents and can contain traces of nitrosamines, which are potential carcinogens.

  • Mineral Oil and Petrolatum: These ingredients are often used to add shine to the hair, but they can also create a barrier that may prevent moisture from penetrating the hair shaft.

  • Alcohol (e.g., Isopropyl Alcohol, Ethanol): Some alcohols can be drying to the hair and scalp, leading to brittle hair, increased dryness, and potential scalp irritation. In some cases the type of alcohol is more fatty and hydrating which can be okay (ex: cetearyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol).

  • Phenoxyethanol: Phenoxyethanol is a preservative commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products, including shampoos and conditioners, to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. It causes skin irritation and may harm the central nervous system. It is only safe if it is made naturally from green tea. 

  • Polyethylene Glycols (PEG 100, 120, 14M, 30, 32, 40, 75, etc.): PEG is derived from petroleum and acts as a thickening agent in hair care items. They are skin irritants, and are usually contaminated with 1-4 dioxane, heavy metals, and other toxins that are known carcinogens.

  • Triclosan: Once prevalent in antibacterial soap, triclosan persists in shampoos, toothpaste, and deodorants. It acts as a hormone disruptor, potentially accumulating in fat cells and causing toxicity.



Spring Forward Approved Brands


If you don't want to buy directly from the brands, you can buy most of these on Amazon, Credo Beauty, or Sephora.

 

Low-Tox Options at Walmart / Target

  • Shea Moisture

  • Native 

  • Alaffia

  • Avalon Organics

  • Honest Company

Ditch These:

  • Olaplex

  • Suave

  • Aussie

  • Native 

  • Dove

  • Gisou

  • Act+Acre

  • WOW

  • Amika

  • Redken

  • Herbal Essences

  • Garnier Fructis

  • TreSemme

  • Pantene

  • Ogx

  • Monday

  • Living Proof

  • Head & Shoulders

 

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