Are you tired of using hair conditioner that promises soft, silky hair but instead leaves you with scalp and hair concerns? One reason for this could be the use of harmful ingredients in your conditioner. In this blog, we’ll talk about some of the commonly used ingredients that can cause hair fall, dandruff, and other scalp and hair concerns. So, next time you reach for your conditioner, make sure to check the ingredients and say no to these harmful chemicals.
1. Silicones
Ingredients ending with -cone or -xane, such as dimethicone, cyclomethicone, and amodimethicone, are silicones commonly used in hair conditioners. While they may provide a temporary coating to make your hair appear shiny, they can cause buildup on the scalp and hair, leading to hair fall, dandruff, and other scalp concerns.
2. Sulfates
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are surfactants used in hair conditioners to produce lather. However, they can strip the hair and scalp of their natural oils, leaving them dry and prone to breakage. Sulfates can also cause scalp irritation and allergy in some people.
3. Parabens
These are preservatives used in hair conditioners to extend their shelf life. However, they can mimic estrogen in the body and disrupt hormonal balance. Parabens have been linked to breast cancer and other health concerns. Examples of parabens include methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.
4. Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs)
PEGs are used in hair conditioners as emulsifiers and thickeners. However, they can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and damage. PEGs can also be contaminated with toxic impurities such as 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen.
5. Phthalates
These are chemicals that are used to create fragrance in many hair products, but they have been linked to hormone disruption and other health concerns. Just say no if you see dibutyl phthalate (DBP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), dimethyl phthalate (DMP), di-n-octyl phthalate (DnOP), diisononyl phthalate (DINP), diisodecyl phthalate (DIDP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in your conditioner.
6. Formaldehyde
This is a preservative that is used in many hair products, but it can cause scalp irritation, hair loss, and other health concerns. Examples of Formaldehyde would be formalin, methylene glycol, methylene oxide, paraform, formic aldehyde, and oxomethane.
7. Synthetic fragrances
These are chemicals used to create pleasant scents in many hair products, but they can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and other health concerns.
At The Switch Fix, we believe in using only safe and sustainable ingredients in our hair care products. Our shampoo bars, conditioner bars, hair oils and all the other products are free from harmful chemicals such as silicones, sulfates, parabens, PEGs, and other synthetic fragrances and dyes. Instead, we use plant-based ingredients that are gentle on your scalp and hair, while also promoting sustainable living.
So, the next time you’re shopping for a hair conditioner, make sure to check the ingredients list and say no to these harmful chemicals. Your scalp and hair will thank you for it! Remember, your hair is your crown, so take good care of it with safe and sustainable hair care products.
Stay tuned for more hair care tips and hacks from The Switch Fix!
