Mainstream shampoos can wreak havoc on not only our hair but
also our bodies. Because they contain harmful and synthetic chemicals that are
absorbed through the skin, our bodies are put to risk by directly applying
carcinogenic chemicals to it.
A general rule of thumb for choosing natural
shampoos is to make sure the label does not contain more than 9 ingredients;
products with more are most likely to contain harmful synthetic ingredients.
For example, here are some of the good ingredients you want to be looking for
in an organic
shampoo:
- Aloe Vera (moisturising & growth
stimulating)
- Coconut Oil (moisturising & growth
stimulating)
- Organic Shea butter – (colour & shine enhancer)
- Organic tea tree oil (antiseptic
functionalities)
Ingredients typically contained in regular shampoos have been
proven to reduce the size of hair follicles, irritate and disrupt oil glands,
dry out the scalp, which ultimately can result in hair loss. Watch Out for
these ingredients:
Sulfates – Chemical Detergents that can be so
harsh that they strip away the natural moisture of our hair and scalp. They
also carry hormone-disrupting agents along with them.
Parabens – xenoestrogens, which means that they have a similar
composition to hormones found in the human body. Xenoestrogens are thought to
disrupt hormones and could even pose a cancer risk.
Fragrances – could be anything from more than 3,100 chemicals
used by the fragrance industry that they can add into shampoos and
conditioners.
Triclosan is a
preservative and a endocrine disruptor, which means it can be harmful in the
same fashion as xenoestrogens.
If you’re looking for shampoos and conditioners that are made with safe,
reliable, natural ingredients, you have lots of options at your fingertips. And
if you’re feeling more adventurous, of course, you could always try making your
own homemade hair care products.
