Ever wonder why your hair feels dull and lifeless after using a fancy new shampoo? You’re not alone.
Many popular mass-produced hair products contain additives that do more damage than help. This is what makes choosing the right products more challenging. Harvard Medical School believes a woman, on average, uses a dozen beauty products daily, including hair products. Moreover, Purdue University research suggests that a person inhales over 15 mg of toxic chemicals in a single home haircare application.
Your body absorbs these chemicals, which might damage it. Your best bet is to limit such chemicals. While ‘sulfate-free’ and ‘paraben-free’ products are a good start, there’s much more to a toxic chemical-free hair product.
This blog post explores five toxic compounds often found in hair products and why you should avoid them.
#1. Denatured Alcohols
Denatured alcohols are commonly found in cleansers, conditioners, and styling items. They are used because they evaporate quickly, which helps other ingredients penetrate the hair and scalp more effectively.
However, this alcohol leaves a lasting dryness. They strip the dirt and natural oils from your hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. If you see ingredients like SD alcohol, propanol, or ethanol listed on your product, you’re likely dealing with denatured alcohol. These compounds irritate your scalp and even damage your hair over time.
Instead, opt for products with gentler, fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol or stearyl alcohol, which help moisturize and smoothen your hair.
#2. Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is used in hair straighteners, smoothening procedures, and as stabilizers. It locks hair in a straighter form, but here’s the catch: the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recognizes it as a carcinogen. Meaning it can cause cancer.
Products containing formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing substances can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even more serious health issues with prolonged exposure. Consumer Notice reveals that it’s often listed as formalin, methylene glycol, or glyoxylic acid on labels. The FDA has warned about its presence in hair straightening treatments.
Studies associate these products with an increased probability of uterine cancer, uterine fibroids, and breast cancer. TorHoerman Law reports that women who use chemical straighteners are twice as at risk than those who don’t. Black women are particularly at risk as they are expected to meet Eurocentric beauty standards.
Many victims have filed a chemical hair straightener lawsuit due to health problems linked to these products. The lawsuits highlight the dangers of long-term exposure to formaldehyde in these products. If you use hair straighteners, check the ingredients carefully and consider safer alternatives.
For safer alternatives, skip the formaldehyde and explore safer straightening options like keratin treatments or heat protectants with proper technique.
#3. Silicones
Silicones are added to conditioners and styling products to give hair a smooth, shiny appearance. They coat the hair shaft, making your hair look healthy at first glance.
However, silicones build up over time, creating a barrier that prevents moisture and nutrients from entering the hair shaft. This causes hair dryness and damage. They’re especially problematic for curly hair, as they can weigh down your natural texture. Common silicones to avoid are dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane, and phenyl trimethicone.
These ingredients can weigh down your hair, causing it to be thick and brittle. For healthier hair, choose products that use natural oils or water-soluble silicones that don’t build up on the hair. Alternatively, you can also use plant-based oils like argan or jojoba oil to add shine without the build-up.
#4. Fragrance
Fragrance is added to hair products to make them smell enticing. However, the term “fragrance” is an umbrella term that hides a multitude of chemicals, many of which are harmful.
Bloomberg notes that perfume formulas in the US are classified as trade secrets. Thus, many cosmetic products use “fragrance” on their labels without revealing the ingredients. However, in California, under Assembly Bill 496, companies must disclose chemicals the state considers health concerns. You can browse for these chemicals in the California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP) Product Database.
These chemicals can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, eczema, and respiratory problems. As the ingredients are undisclosed, knowing what you’re exposed to is difficult. Phthalates, usually used to make fragrances last longer, have been linked to hormone and reproductive system disruption. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), styrene, another fragrance ingredient, can cause cancer.
Moreover, fragrance chemicals also contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which damage ozone and are an environmental hazard. Switch to fragrance-free products or those made with natural essential oils to avoid these risks. This way, you can enjoy pleasant-smelling hair products without the hidden dangers.
However, be mindful that even essential oils can be allergens, so do a patch test if you have sensitive skin.
#5. Mineral Oil
Mineral oil is a common ingredient in many hair care products, known for its moisturizing properties. It is a petroleum-based ingredient typically used as a lubricant and protectant.
It seems like a good way to lock in moisture, but here’s the problem: mineral oil coats the hair shaft, affecting porosity. This can leave your hair dehydrated. Mineral oil can also weigh down the hair, making it look greasy and limp. Instead, choose products that use natural oils like coconut, jojoba, or argan. These oils can penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep moisture and nourishment without the drawbacks of mineral oil.
People Also Ask
Q1. What Are Some Good Hair Care Habits That Promote Healthy Hair?
Healthy hair starts from the inside out. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Limit heat styling and be gentle when brushing your hair. Remember, a well-nourished scalp is the cornerstone for healthy hair.
Q2. How Can I Identify Toxic Chemicals in Hair Products?
Check the ingredient list for red flags like “fragrance,” “parfum,” or long chemical names. Use apps like Think Dirty, Clearya, or EWG’s Skin Deep to scan products. Look for certifications like USDA Organic, Made Safe, or EWG Verified. When in doubt, research unfamiliar ingredients or consult a dermatologist.
Q3. Are Natural Hair Products Always Safer Than Synthetic Ones?
Not always. “Natural” doesn’t guarantee safety. Some plant-based ingredients can cause allergies or irritation. Conversely, some synthetic ingredients are safe and effective. It’s crucial to research individual ingredients, regardless of their origin. Always patch-test new products, even natural ones.
Understanding what goes into your hair products is key to maintaining healthy hair and overall well-being. Make a habit of reading labels and don’t be fooled by marketing claims. Remember, “natural” doesn’t always mean safe, and “chemical-free” is a misleading term— as everything is made of chemicals.
By avoiding these five toxic ingredients, you’re taking a significant step towards healthier hair care. Look for products with plant-based ingredients and educate yourself about what you’re putting on your hair. Your locks—and your health—will thank you for it.
