Because they are less expensive, many cosmetic and hair care companies are turning to synthetic products. Unfortunately, these are not always without effect on our health, or that of our skin and hair. When choosing a shampoo, it would obviously be better to turn to natural products. No need to go to a specialty store for that, there are even options in pharmacies. If the idea of going natural seems a little too grainy to you, be sure to choose a shampoo that does not contain the following products listed below. Your hair and your body will thank you!
It is the sulphates that produce the foam. However, they are very aggressive, and eliminate the natural protection that covers the scalp. Result: the scalp may become oily or produce dandruff. Result, it is necessary to wash the hair more often, and begins a vicious circle where the washes are more and more close. Note that sulfates also tend to weaken color pigments. Those with dyed hair should therefore stay away from it to preserve their color.
Other names: Sulfonate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SDS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS)
The silicone sheaths the hair, and gives a nice shine... at first. Over time, it adheres to the surface of the hair, waterproofing it, and preventing nourishing ingredients from penetrating it. By turning your nose up at products containing silicone, you risk being able to space out your hair washes!
Moreover, silicone is a petroleum derivative! Not the kind of thing you want to put in your hair!
Other names: any ingredient with the suffix "cone", siloxane, cyclopentasiloxane, phenyldimethylpolysioxane
They have the same suffocating effect as silicone: mineral oils (parrafine, petrolatum, ceresin), PEG, PPG, quaternium + numbers
The presence of parabens in shampoos seems like a good idea: they act as preservatives and therefore slow down the development of bacteria.
However, this ingredient is also singled out for being an endocrine disruptor. So, it is better to avoid it, and turn instead to shampoos containing natural preservatives (contained among others in fruits).
Other names: ethyl paraben, propyl paraben, isobutylparaben, all names containing "butyl", "phenyl", "methyl" or "propyl"
That's a lot, right?
The easiest way, therefore, is to choose a shampoo (or other hair products) made up of natural ingredients that you recognize, and with the shortest possible ingredient list.
Also keep in mind that it sometimes takes a few shampoos for the hair to get used to being deprived of the elements mentioned above. Hold on for a few washes, you'll come out with enhanced hair!
