Traffic light for the safety of components in shampoos for your hair. Let's figure out what manufacturers like to use in shampoos and which of these components should be unconditionally given a red light because of their harm.
The topic of our last publication was, today we will deal with external effects on hair and determine which shampoos with which ingredients have no right to be in our bathroom.
Almost all women, when choosing a hair wash, rely on their experience or advice from a friend, rely on the brand or price category. Although the main factor for choosing should be its composition.
All substances included in the shampoo are written in English or Russian, depending on the country of production. Let's divide these substances into 3 groups according to the harmfulness of their content.
Red band or avoid it
Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben
Some of the most harmful ingredients in shampoo are parabens. They are used primarily as preservatives and to thicken detergents. These substances are very toxic and are easily absorbed into the scalp. Once in the body, parabens mimic estrogen. The right shampoo does not contain these substances and has a No paraben symbol on the label.Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
According to dermatologists, shampoo should not contain, or possibly very small amounts of, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). These are foaming agents. Manufacturers “love” to add them to all detergents because of their low cost. They are harmful primarily because they cause itching and dermatitis of the scalp, and also make the hair thinner. In addition to cosmetics, these substances are used in industry to flush engines and clean metal products from corrosion.The concentration of these two components should not exceed 1%. But, unfortunately, the concentration is not written on the labels of hair products.
Ammonium laureth sulfate
Another harmful component. This is a surfactant that has a high degree of penetration into the skin. It is a carcinogen and causes allergic reactions.Sodium Xylenesulfonate
This is another surfactant that causes allergies and damage to the epidermis, and this primarily threatens the destruction of the hair follicle.DMDM hydantoin or formalin
Very toxic substance. It has an irritating effect on the eyes, skin and even the respiratory tract. In addition, it has the property of dissolving beneficial substances in the shampoo.Yellow group or be careful, but possible
Tetrasodium EDTA, Triethanolamine, and all types of DEA and TEA
Used as emulsifiers and for foaming. Cause damage to the structure of the hair and scalp. But these substances cause less damage to hair than SLS or SLES.Silicones
There are also controversial ingredients, such as: Dimethicone, Amodimethicone, Polydimethylsiloxane,Cyclomethicone, Cetyl dimethicone or, more simply, silicone. Opinions are divided regarding this substance. On the one hand, silicone “clogs” the hair and prevents the penetration of beneficial components, and also makes the hair thinner and more brittle. On the other hand, it is what gives shine after washing, and also makes hair more manageable when styling.Green group or you can’t do without them
Glycerin
This substance moisturizes hair and gives it shine. But it is better not to use shampoo with glycerin in dry climates, as it absorbs moisture from the external environment. And in the absence of moisture in the air, it begins to absorb it from the hair and makes it dry.Note to the reader! Find out more on our website.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone
Synthetic preservative. It has antioxidant properties and washes off well.Citric Acid or citric acid is an excellent antiseptic. It is also a substance that normalizes pH balance. But it is useful for people with dry or normal hair types.
When choosing a shampoo, you should carefully study the label. In addition to the useful pH balance and No paraben icons, you should pay attention to the composition. And the less it contains, the stronger and healthier they not only look, but also are.
To see which shampoos are dangerous, just go to any supermarket, where the cheapest, advertised brands belonging to cosmetic giants - L'Oreal, Dove, Garnier, Nivea, Clean Line and others - are on the shelves.
All these shampoos, which we see every day in commercials with models and actresses, contain one common component - the so-called SLS - Sodium Lauryl Sulphate.
You can verify this by turning the shampoo over and reading the ingredients on the label:
Why are SLS in shampoo harmful?
SLS is the cheapest and easiest cleaning agent and foaming agent to use on a production scale. It is thanks to him that a drop of shampoo turns into lush white foam, and it is thanks to him that fat and impurities are removed from hair so well.
These amazing properties of SLS are used not only in the production of hair products. SLS is also used to make car wash liquid, glass cleaner, and many other compounds for fighting dirt on inanimate objects.
In human shampoos, SLS is simply mixed with emollients, so on the surface its effect does not appear aggressive. However, there are things that remain behind the scenes.
Constant use of such shampoos is fraught with disruption of blood supply to the hair follicles, which can lead to hair loss and deterioration of the general condition of the hair. According to recent studies, SLSs have a strong carcinogenic potential, i.e. their toxicity can contribute to the formation of cancer.
Concern about the impact of SLS on human health has recently led to the emergence of the term “sulfate-free shampoos”, and of course a huge number of cosmetics brands that have begun to put a proud sign on their products
Without SLS
If you find such a mark, the shampoo is most likely safe, but not always. Many brands, abandoning sulfates and putting the “no sls” sign, continue to add other, less common, but no less dangerous substances to their shampoos, such as, for example, diethanolamine. It can be identified by letters on the label
It is also toxic and can cause skin irritation. Shampoo containing DEA can by no means be called safe, even if it says “free of sls and parabens.”
Parabens are preservatives. They are part of many cosmetics, creams, tonics and their destructive effect has not yet been proven. However, if you find a shampoo not only without SLS, DEA, but also without parabens, it is better to choose it.
Those who constantly buy sulfate-free shampoos complain that, lacking an aggressive component, they are not able to wash their hair well. This is not entirely true. Only all-natural shampoos wash your hair poorly. But there are many chemical shampoos without SLS and diethanolamines that wash perfectly and are safe.
The best sulfate-free shampoos - list of brands
Yes to Carrots and Yes to Cucumbers shampoos are very popular all over the world. They are not completely natural, but do not contain any harmful substances and are absolutely safe.
Instead of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Yes to Carrots shampoo uses the foaming agent Sodium Coco Sulphate. Its molecules are larger than SLS molecules, so much so that they are unable to penetrate human skin and act as toxins and irritants.
In Russia, the Yes to brand can be found in Rive Gauche stores, however, these will be locally bottled shampoos. If the country of origin is important to you, it is better to order these shampoos online. For example, on feelunique.com it costs £9 per bottle with free delivery to Russia. By the way, unlike many other shampoos, Yes to is available in large half-liter packages, which last for a long time.
The American Avalon is considered a very worthy organic brand all over the world. Avalon shampoos consist of 70% natural ingredients, do not contain SLS, DEA and are completely safe. They are freely sold in Russia, both on the Internet and in cosmetics stores. True, they cost twice as much here as in America.
Aubrey Organics produces a huge number of natural shampoos, as well as natural hair dyes, masks with biotin and other products for the face and body. The company uses organic natural ingredients and is highly valued all over the world among people who care about their health.
Inexpensive sulfate-free shampoos
In our country, good, safe shampoos and body products - creams, butters, liquid soaps - are produced under the Organic Shop and Organic Kitchen brands. Organic Shop shampoos can be bought in pharmacies, Rivgauches, Latoiles or Organic Shop brand stores in large shopping centers. These shampoos are not completely natural, but do not contain anything that could harm the body. Compared to imported analogues, they are very cheap.
All-natural shampoos are produced, for example, by companies such as Natuderm and Logona.
Choose a shampoo that suits your hair. The main thing is without SLS and DEA.
Unfortunately, most shampoos, conditioners, balms and hair masks contain ingredients harmful to hair that can deprive hair of shine, strength and beauty. And although at first it seems that the hair has become more vibrant and manageable, this is only a short-term effect. Over time, they may lose their natural strength and become brittle, dry and dull.
But the worst thing is that harmful substances in cosmetics can affect our body as a whole and, after some time of use, cause allergies, endocrine system disorders and other health problems. Let's analyze the composition of cosmetics and figure out what absolutely should not be in your hair products.
Lauryl and laureth sulfates
These harmful substances in shampoos and conditioners are very common. They are surfactants, which quite often form the basis of hair products. It is thanks to these types of sulfates that shampoos foam well and cleanse hair well.
According to researchers, such components can cause irritation of the scalp and provoke allergies after a long period of use. They also clog the pores of the scalp, damage the hair follicles and can cause dandruff and hair loss. An alternative is milder surfactants, such as sulfosuccinates, ester carboxylates, sarcosinates, betaines.
Phthalates
Phthalates can be used in a variety of hair care products, so it's worth reading the label carefully every time you buy a new product. Phthalates can cause asthma, infertility and reproductive dysfunction in men. That is why in a number of countries the most dangerous types of phthalates are generally prohibited.
Parabens
Parabens in cosmetics are complex artificially created acids that are an excellent and cheap preservative. It is thanks to parabens that hair products do not deteriorate for a long time and are protected from the effects of bacteria and mold. Parabens can be found not only in hair washing products, but also in styling products.
Scientists have been arguing about the dangers of parabens for quite some time. According to one point of view, parabens accumulate in the body and can cause problems with the endocrine system and even provoke the occurrence of tumors and cancer. Another group of scientists claims that if the amount of parabens in the product is small, they do not cause any harm to the body.
The most dangerous parabens are: propylparaben, butylparaben, isobutylparaben and isopropylparaben. In some countries, their use in cosmetic products is generally prohibited. Various oils can replace dubious parabens: almond, olive, lavender, tea tree oil and argan. But the cost of such products may be higher, and the shelf life may be shorter.
Mineral oils
What else shouldn't be in shampoo? Mineral oils are a petroleum byproduct that is considered carcinogenic and can cause cancer. Only highly refined oils are safe for human health, but most hair products use cheaper, unrefined mineral oils.
Formaldehyde
This preservative is quite often used in hair products and cosmetics. It is toxic and can cause reproductive and breathing problems, as well as dermatitis. The use of formaldehyde in cosmetics is prohibited, but some manufacturers manage to circumvent this regulation and label it as Quaternium-15, Dowicil 75, Dowicil 100, Dowicil 200.
Polyethylene glycol (PEG)
Scientists claim that this thickener, stabilizer and defoamer can cause allergic reactions, acne and dry skin, as well as cause kidney and liver diseases. But a number of other studies refutes this information and claims that polyethylene glycol is absolutely safe.
Girls buy shampoos without thinking about anything. Did you know that shampoos can provoke the growth of cancer cells? Due to the fact that many manufacturers have begun adding chemicals to shampoos, girls are suffering from diseases. What we are shown in advertising is just a marketing ploy.
Of course there are few chemical additives. But manufacturers add the most terrible components.
Of the twelve, ten ingredients can cause: birth defects in offspring, allergic reactions, damage to the skin, hair, organs, tissues, disruption of the central nervous and endocrine systems, and diseases such as cancer.
Carefully read the composition of the shampoo before buying it! This is very important, because such diseases begin to develop very quickly!
90 percent of all shampoos contain sodium laureth and sodium lauryl sulfate, and on the packages themselves it is written as Loureth Sulfate/SodiumLouryl. This detergent is the cheapest, and therefore almost all manufacturers use it. The substance penetrates very quickly and easily into your body and can accumulate in tissues, most notably in the liver, brain, heart and eyes. Over a period of weeks or months, lauryl accumulates in the body, thereby quickly causing cancer, hair loss, dry skin, eye diseases and hormonal dysfunction. Lauryl is also a mutagen. It changes cell genetics and affects DNA structure.
A lot of shampoos contain triethanolamine and diethanolamine. They are designated by the letters TEA and DEA. They are used in shampoo to create foam. Such ingredients cause liver and kidney cancer. If the shampoo still contains nitrite preservatives, then the combination of these three substances forms a strong poison.
Shampoos also contain many other dangerous ingredients. You should remember them and try not to choose shampoos containing them. Sodium EDTA is used to bind dirt particles. In the composition it will be designated as Tetrasodium EDTA. This component has negative effects on behavioral, cognitive and psychological processes and causes skin and eye irritation. And the substance Cocamide MEA, which is used to form thick foam, promotes the formation and development of cancer.
Diazolidinyl Urea causes irritation to the eyes and skin, and is also a powerful poison - formaldehyde. Cocamidotrotyl Betaine, which increases the density and volume of shampoo, causes dry scalp, irritation and dermatitis.
Propylene Glyco, l makes hair “silky”, is used in brake fluid and is a petrochemical compound! It causes abnormalities in the liver and kidneys and causes dermatitis. Nowadays, all shampoos contain dyes, preservatives and fragrances.
Propilparaben and Methylparaben are classified as heterogeneous parabens. Parabens cause allergies, trigger allergies, and are endocrine disruptors. Benzoic acid can cause birth defects in offspring. Some dyes are designated in the composition as CI42053, CI60730, etc. Many of them have not even passed certification. Shampoos with Perfume, so to speak, are actually made with a fragrance, and not ordinary perfume. And they contribute to disruption of the central nervous system, causing allergies and cancer.
Girls, be extremely careful and do not put your own life at risk! Think about your children! Health is most important!
The chemical composition of shampoo may vary. Often the list of shampoo ingredients takes up several paragraphs.
We all have different hair - long or short, thick or thin, straight or curly. And we want to choose a shampoo that will suit our hair type and improve its condition and appearance. And then shampoo manufacturers happily meet us halfway and promise instant hair transformation. Just buy shampoo, and your hair will become strong and shiny, thick and voluminous.
It’s interesting that the hair actually transforms after the first wash, shines, and is easy to style. And we rejoice without thinking about what causes such a transformation, how long it will last, and how we can pay for the miraculous effect. After all, if a person smoked, ate poorly, experienced stress and thereby brought his hair to a deplorable state, he needs to either change his lifestyle and change the condition of his hair from the inside, or use a loading dose of certain chemical substances that will quickly change his hair and have no known effect on his health.
If we thought that we would pay for a quick external effect with illnesses, we would not rush to believe the advertising and sweep shampoos off the shelves.
Do not be misled by the information that the shampoo has passed dermatological testing. Indeed, most products are tested for toxic components. The content of such harmful substances in shampoos as lead, mercury, arsenic and others should not exceed the permissible limit.
However, standards for hazardous substances vary from country to country. A shampoo with the same name produced in Europe will have a different composition than one made in China or India.
Indicated composition of shampoo ingredients
It’s also good if the manufacturer honestly indicates the chemical composition of the shampoo on the packaging. Then, having bought shampoo, we realize how safe it is to wash our hair with this shampoo. But sometimes they write on the packaging: preservatives, fragrances, etc., without indicating the chemical names and formulas. Such words may hide any substances hazardous to health. If a person has a tendency to allergic reactions, he can instantly feel the effect of the allergen. In other cases, harmful substances from shampoo can accumulate in the body and cause skin diseases or hormonal imbalances. People go to doctors, undergo treatment for months, but do not connect the disease with the appearance of a new shampoo.
Some harmful substances may come from plant components. Shampoos containing such substances may be considered natural, organic and environmentally friendly, but can also be harmful to our health.
Let's figure out what harmful substances shampoo manufacturers most often abuse in order to please the unscrupulous consumer and quickly get benefits.
Chemicals in Hair Shampoo
Cocamides in shampoos
Cocamides increase the foaming of shampoo and reduce its consumption. Shampoos with cocamides are thicker, denser, and foam better.
A very small amount of cocamide shampoo is enough to wash your hair.
Cocamides are emulsifiers based on coconut oil and ethanolamine. Some manufacturers pass it off as a natural component of plant origin and, on this basis, include it in soaps and baby shampoos. In fact, although coconut oil is used in its production, this substance is hazardous to health. In the United States, cocamides are prohibited in cosmetics. In our country, these substances are classified as a medium hazard class and are included in shampoos, including children’s.
Cocamides in shampoos can be hidden under the names:
- AMIDES, COCO, N (HYDROXYETHYL);
- COCO MONOETHANOLAMIDE;
- COCO N- (2-HYDROXYETHYL) - AMIDES;
- COCONUT FATTY ACID MONOETHANOLAMIDE;
- COCOYL MONOETHANOLAMINE;
- EQUEX AEM;
- MONOETHANOLAMINE COCONUT ACID AMIDE;
- N- (2-HYDROXYETHYL) COCO FATTY ACID AMIDE;
- AMIDES, COCO, N,N-BIS (2-HYDROXYETHYL);
- COCO N,N-BIS (2-HYDROXYETHYL) - AMIDES;
- COCONUT DIETHANOLAMIDE;
- COCONUT FATTY ACID DIETHANOLAMIDE;
- COCOYL DIETHANOLAMIDE;
- DIETHANOLAMINE COCONUT FATTY ACID CONDENSATE;
- N,N-BIS (2-HYDROXYETHYL) - COCO AMIDES.
Sulfates in shampoos
Sulfates are used in shampoos to enhance the cleaning and degreasing effect and for better foaming.
Sulfates are cheap components that are products of petroleum refining.
Sulfates in shampoos cause dry and flaky skin, allergies and dandruff.
The most common sulfate in shampoos and other types of cosmetics is sodium lauryl sulfate. There are studies that the accumulation of this substance in the body increases the likelihood of cataracts.
Another type of sulfate is sodium laureth sulfate. By itself, this substance in its pure form causes less skin irritation. However, it is difficult to obtain it in its pure form; it is often contaminated with the dangerous substance dioxane, which is a potential carcinogen. Dioxane is not listed in shampoo, but is almost always accompanied by sodium laureth sulfate.
The accumulation of sulfates in the body leads to hair loss, hormonal dysfunction, and the development of tumors. Lauryl sulfate may cause disruption of fetal development during pregnancy.
The danger of sulfates is that they are found not only in shampoos, but also in washing powder, soap, shower gel, and dishwashing liquid. The risks associated with sulfates increase with frequent use of sulfate-containing products and depend on the duration of skin contact with these substances. If you use shampoo with sulfates infrequently and thoroughly rinse the remaining shampoo from your hair, the harm from sulfates will be minimized. People with dry skin, dermatitis, and allergies should avoid shampoos and other detergents with sulfates.
Synonyms for the component Sodium lauryl sulfate:
- MONODODECYL ESTER SODIUM SALT SULFURIC ACID;
- SODIUM SALT SULFURIC ACID, MONODODECYL ESTER;
- SULFURIC ACID MONODODECYL ESTER SODIUM SALT;
- AI3-00356;
- AKYPOSAL SDS;
- AQUAREX ME;
- AQUAREX METHYL.
- Synonyms for the component Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES):
- ALPHA-SULFO-OMEGA-(DODECYLOXY) POLY (OXY-1,2-ETHANEDIYL), SODIUM SALT;
- PEG- (1-4) LAURYL ETHER SULFATE, SODIUM SALT;
- POLY (OXY-1,2-ETHANEDIYL) , .ALPHA.-SULFO-.OMEGA.- (DODECYLOXY) -, SODIUM SALT;
- POLY (OXY-1,2-ETHANEDIYL) ,A -SULFO-W (DODECYLOXY) -, SODIUM SALT;
- POLYOXYETHYLENE (1-4) LAURYL ETHER SULFATE, SODIUM SALT;
- SODIUM PEG LAURYL ETHER SULFATE;
- SODIUM POLYOXYETHYLENE LAURYL SULFATE.
Synonyms for the component Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS):
- AMMONIUM SALT SULFURIC ACID, MONODODECYL ESTER;
- DODECYL AMMONIUM SULFATE;
- MONODODECYL ESTER AMMONIUM SALT SULFURIC ACID;
- NEOPON LAM;
- SULFURIC ACID, MONODODECYL ESTER, AMMONIUM SALT;
- AKYPOSAL ALS 33;
- CONCO SULFATE A.
How do manufacturers who are truly concerned about the health of their customers replace sulfates in shampoos? These can be saponites - harmless natural substances or glycosides obtained from potatoes, rice and wheat.
Preservative DMDM Hydantoin and formaldehyde in shampoos
The preservative DMDM Hydantoin is included in many anti-dandruff shampoos in combination with antifungal components. It is also found in other hair and skin products, and in decorative cosmetics. This substance is dangerous because it releases formaldehyde.
The release of formaldehyde increases at the end of the product's shelf life.
Formaldehyde is carcinogenic and very dangerous to health.
The permitted concentration of hydantoin in shampoos is 0.6%. But manufacturers usually do not indicate the percentage of this substance in the product, and we may not be aware of the possible risks.
To reduce the harm from hydantoin, do not use expired shampoos or those that are nearing their expiration date.
Other names of the substance: dimethylimidazolidine, glycolyl urea.
Formaldehyde itself is also found in shampoos as a preservative. It is also included in leave-in hair products. Hair visually looks shiny and smooth. This is exactly the case when you have to pay seriously with your health for a visible quick effect.
Formaldehyde is indicated by the following names:
- Cosmetic Biocide;
- Denaturant;
- Preservative.
Harmful components of formaldehyde-releasing shampoos:
- 5-bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane;
- 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol;
- imidazolidinyl urea;
- methenamine;
- Quaternium-15;
- DMDM hydantoin;
- diazolidinyl urea;
- sodium hydroxymethyl glycinate;
- benzylhemiformal.
Harm of parabens in shampoo
The preservatives propylparaben and butylparaben are widely used in shampoos and other cosmetics due to their low cost and bactericidal properties.
Parabens are odorless and can withstand high temperatures, so they are included in shampoos in large quantities.
Parabens significantly increase the shelf life of shampoos, but are a source of danger.
They cause allergic reactions of varying severity, dry skin and hair, redness and itching in the eyes. Sometimes hair loss is a consequence of prolonged and frequent use of shampoo with parabens.
There are studies showing a connection between some hormone-dependent tumors and parabens in cosmetics. Parabens tend to accumulate in tumors in high concentrations.
In many countries, the use of propylparaben and butylparaben in shampoos and other hygiene and cosmetic products is limited by law. Methylparaben is considered safer; this substance is even included in some anticancer drugs.
In shampoos, butylparaben may be called:
- 4-HYDROXY-BUTYL ESTER BENZOIC ACID;
- BENZOIC ACID, 4-HYDROXY-, BUTYL ESTER, SODIUM SALT;
- BENZOIC ACID, 4HYDROXY, BUTYL ESTER;
- BUTYL 4-HYDROXYBENZOATE;
- BUTYL ESTER SODIUM SALT 4-HYDROXYBENZOIC ACID;
- BUTYL ESTER SODIUM SALT BENZOIC ACID, 4-HYDROXY-BUTYL P-HYDROXYBENZOATE.
Synonyms of propylparaben in shampoos:
- 4-HYDROXY-PROPYL ESTER BENZOIC ACID;
- 4-HYDROXYBENZOIC ACID, PROPYL ESTER;
- BENZOIC ACID, 4HYDROXY, PROPYL ESTER;
- BENZOIC ACID, 4HYDROXY, PROPYL ESTER, SODIUM SALT;
- POTASSIUM PROPYLPARABEN;
- POTASSIUM SALT PROPYLPARABEN;
- PROPYL 4-HYDROXYBENZOATE.
Parabens are also included in substances with names:
- E214 - E219;
- germaben;
- benzoic acid;
- bronopol;
- methylchloroisothiazolinone;
- benzisothiazolinone;
- imdazolidinyl urea;
- diazolidinyl urea;
- Iodopropynyl butylcarbamate.
In safe shampoos, willow or oak bark, juniper berries, cranberries, and other berries are used as bactericidal agents. Of course, shampoos made from plant materials have a short shelf life. Therefore, it is quite difficult to find a harmless shampoo without preservatives.
Based on the shelf life of the shampoo, it is easy to understand how many preservatives, and, in particular, parabens, this shampoo may contain. Choose shampoos with a shorter shelf life. Another option is to make your own shampoos from ingredients in your kitchen. There are plenty of such recipes on the Internet. Homemade shampoos based on eggs, soda, vinegar, and lemon juice can partially or completely replace store-bought shampoos.
Salt in shampoo
Sodium chloride, or simply salt, is a common and safe preservative. Salt causes some unpleasant effects at high concentrations in people with sensitive skin. In this case, dandruff and dry scalp may appear.
Choose shampoos with rock salt or sea salt. These types of salt do not dry the skin and fight dandruff and hair loss.
Diethanolamine in shampoo
This dangerous substance in shampoo is an alkali of organic origin, used as an emulsifier and acidity stabilizer.
The toxicity of this substance for the excretory and cardiovascular systems has been proven. The substance is dangerous for pregnant and lactating women and has carcinogenic properties.
Shampoos with diethanolamine significantly deteriorate the appearance of hair. They become brittle, dull and poorly restored.
If you see the word diethanolamine on a shampoo package, do not buy it, it is dangerous for your health.
Other names for dangerous shampoo components:
- 2,2′-DIHYDROXYDIETHYLAMINE;
- 2,2′-IMINOBISETHANOL;
- DEA (EWG);
- ETHANOL, 2,2 IMINOBIS;
- 2,2′-DIHYDROXYDIETHYLAMINE;
- 2- (2-HYDROXYETHYLAMINO) ETHANOL;
- BIS (2-HYDROXYETHYL) AMINE.
Silicones included in shampoos
Silicones are added not only to shampoos, but also to hand and face creams and other types of cosmetics. Silicone in the shampoo moisturizes the scalp and hair. Silicone, in particular dimethicone, is quite harmless and is used in products to moisturize the skin of children.
However, some dermatologists have come to the conclusion that silicones clog pores, cause pustular rashes on the skin, and lead to hair loss.
Products with silicone can temporarily improve the appearance of hair, making hair appear shiny and split ends sticking together. If you use such products occasionally during the holidays, they will not cause harm and will improve your mood. But frequent use worsens the metabolism in the skin and hair and spoils the appearance.
Many manufacturers have stopped including silicones in shampoos and are marking them on the packaging as “silicone free”.
Harmless silicone substitutes: fatty alcohols, oils, hydrolyzed protein.
Synonyms of silicone in shampoos:
- dimethicone;
- HIGHLY POLYMERIZED METHYL POLYSILOXANE;
- METHYL POLYSILOXANE;
- SILICONE L-45;
- DC 1664;
- DOW CORNING 1664;
- MIRASIL DM 20;
- VISCASIL 5M.
Silicones are most often easily identified by their endings: -methicone, -silicone, -oxane.
Fragrances in shampoos
Fragrances in shampoo ingredients
For a pleasant smell, fragrances of both artificial and natural origin are added to shampoos. Depending on the raw materials from which flavors are obtained, they can be either completely harmless or quite toxic.
Sometimes a natural flavor can cause even more unpleasant consequences than a synthetic one, such as an allergy attack.
If you are prone to allergies or simply do not want to be exposed to a wide range of aromatic substances, choose products labeled “Fragrance free”.
Phthalates in shampoo
To ensure the stability of the aroma, phthalates are added to shampoos - very harmful chemicals - esters of phthalic acid, obtained by the oxidation of naphthalene, which accumulate in the body and cause serious diseases.
The chemical composition of modern shampoos is quite complex; it can contain dozens of chemicals and their compounds. Some substances may be hazardous to health. To reduce the risk of allergic reactions, we recommend using natural soap.
