The infinite stream of options available to you when it comes to hair products might be a little intimidating - and that's before you even glance at the ingredients list.

With names, you don't recognize and chemicals you've never heard of, it's all-too-easy to ignore the fine print and make hair-care decisions based only on marketing and aesthetics: "I like the color of this container and the form of that one."

Haircare, on the other hand, is about more than just attractive packaging.

In reality, there are a slew of potentially toxic components to avoid, which may explain why you've become accustomed to seeing "free from xyz" emblazoned on a slew of items.

So, which ones should you be aware of?

1. Parabens

Parabens, such as methylparaben and propylparaben, which encourage hair growth and prevent bacteria, are still present in some hair products, albeit they are more usually found in skincare.

Look for propylparaben, benzylparaben, methylparaben, or butylparaben on skin care labels to identify parabens.

Parabens are xenoestrogens, which means they function like oestrogen in the body. Because parabens have been discovered in some breast tumors, research has connected them to breast cancer, however, the strength of these correlations is unknown. In light of the findings, it's best to avoid them whenever feasible.

However, most commercial hair products only utilize parabens in minimal doses due to EU constraints.

2. Formaldehyde

Shampoos with formaldehyde-releasing preservatives like quaternium-15, Diazolidinyl urea, DMDM hydantoin, bronopol, or imidazolidinyl urea can be extremely harmful since formaldehyde is released into the air you breathe and into your skin. DNA damage and cancer have both been linked to formaldehyde.

It is most hazardous when breathed and can be absorbed via the skin in liquid form. Formaldehyde and its releasers can produce ‘allergic' reactions, such as skin irritations and asthma, in addition to being carcinogenic.

3. Sulphates

Sulphates, despite being widespread across the beauty product spectrum, can be harmful to your hair, causing brittleness and, in some cases, eczema.

They are inexpensive detergents that are responsible for the lather effect in most generic shampoos. They are often present in the form of sodium laureth sulphate and sodium lauryl sulphate.



They're widely used in cosmetics as a surfactant that retains dirt and oil and maybe washed away with water. Because there is a worry that this chemical may be carcinogenic or irritating, several producers avoid it and instead employ gentler alternatives like ammonium laureth sulphate.

Sulphate-free solutions may take a little longer to produce a lather-like effect, but they may be an excellent alternative for those with especially dry hair.

4. Fragrance

It is one of the most prevalent elements in modern hair products. Brands will convince you that their shampoos and conditioners will make your hair smell like sunlight - but they could also be causing allergic responses or increasing asthma symptoms.

Fragrances can contain a variety of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and are one of the world's top five allergens. Also, synthetic fragrance-containing items should be used with caution.

If you don't have a sensitive scalp, though, fragrance-containing cosmetics are usually OK for most people. If you do, he recommends using a hypoallergenic shampoo to avoid irritation.

To avoid any allergic reactions, use a hypoallergenic shampoo.

Choose wisely for your hair!