Sulfates and parabens have steadily crept into the common lexicon over the last decade as more individuals pay attention to what they’re actually putting in their hair. You might be shocked to find what famous hair care brands include in their ingredients, so always read the labels before deciding which products are ideal for you.
Sulfates
While sulfates aid in the removal of dirt and oils from hair, they also take moisture and natural oils from hair follicles, leaving your hair dry and unhealthy. A dry, itchy scalp is another typical adverse effect. Due to a lack of natural oils and moisture, hair frizz will increase, necessitating the use of additional style products, which may weigh down your hair.
The most prevalent sulfates found in shampoos are sodium Laureth sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, and ammonium Laureth sulfate. Sulfates are used as a foaming component in shampoo, making it simpler to apply to your scalp. Sulfates are not associated with cancer-causing chemicals, contrary to popular belief. If you have fine, weakened, or color-treated hair, sensitive skin, or a history of rosacea or eczema, you should avoid sulfates.
Parabens
Since the 1920s, parabens have been utilized as an artificial preservative in hair care and beauty products. Parabens have been found in recent research to interfere with hormone function, induce skin irritation, and have a negative influence on fertility and reproductive organs.
Propylparaben was detected in over 92 percent of individuals tested by the CDC, whereas butylparaben was identified in about half of those. Biopsies of aggressive breast cancers revealed a high amount of synthetic parabens, which the researchers suspect were absorbed through the skin through antiperspirant.
While parabens prevent mold and other microorganisms from forming within cosmetics, an increasing number of people are looking for alternatives to preserve their health. On the plus side, parabens are water-soluble, which means they can be readily rinsed out of your hair in the shower, and paraben levels in the body can drop dramatically after just three days of not using them.
Most Common Parabens:
Methylparaben Ethylparaben Propylparaben Isopropylparaben Butylparaben Isobutylparaben.
Pro-Tip –
Deep conditioning will help restore the damage that has already been done, in addition to switching to healthier hair care products that do not include sulfates or parabens. To nourish your hair from the inside out, consider taking hair care supplements or vitamins such as biotin or hair, skin, and nails.
Take Care. Stay safe.