The Top 10 Good & Bad Ingredients in Hair Care
Our hair is something we should never take for granted, especially since research shows that 85% of men and 55% of women will experience some form of hair loss (officially known as alopecia) in their lifetime. While it tends to be more noticeable in men, women are not exempt from this common concern
Many people seek professional hair care from clinics or specialists to restore their hair. But when it comes to hair care, being proactive is better than being reactive. Using quality products like shampoo and conditioner can help maintain clean, hydrated, and strong hair. However, not all hair care products are created equal, and some ingredients can actually harm your hair over time.
We’ll break down the good and bad ingredients in shampoos and conditioners to help you make more informed choices.
Five Good Ingredients That Your Hair Loves
When selecting hair care products, here are some beneficial ingredients to look out for that can promote healthier hair.
1. Keratin
Keratin is a naturally occurring protein that makes up the structure of your hair. Products containing keratin can help repair damaged strands, smooth frizz, and strengthen your hair overall. It’s especially helpful for chemically treated or heat-damaged hair.
2. Argan Oil
Often called “liquid gold”, argan oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids. These properties allow it to moisturise your hair, reduce frizz, and add shine without making your hair feel greasy.
3. Hyaluronic Acid
Known for its use in organic skincare, hyaluronic acid is also beneficial for hair. It helps to hydrate both your scalp and hair, preventing dryness and breakage while maintaining elasticity.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil penetrates deep into the hair shaft, making it an excellent natural treatment for moisturising and strengthening your hair. It also helps to reduce protein loss in hair strands, especially when used as a pre-wash treatment.
5. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it a great solution for combating dandruff and maintaining scalp health.
Five Bad Ingredients That Your Hair Hates
Some ingredients found in shampoos and conditioners can do more harm than good. Here are some common bad ingredients to watch out for.
1. Sulfates
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are foaming agents that give shampoo its lather. While it might feel satisfying to massage a foamy shampoo into your scalp, sulfates can strip natural oils from your hair, leaving it dry and brittle. They can also irritate sensitive scalps.
2. Parabens
Parabens are preservatives used to prevent bacteria growth in shampoos. However, they’ve been linked to hormone disruption and may cause scalp irritation over time. Common types include butyl, propyl, and ethyl parabens.
3. Silicones
Dimethicone and Cyclomethicone are silicones that create a temporary smooth coating on your hair, making it look shiny. However, silicones can build up over time, weighing hair down and blocking moisture from penetrating your strands.
4. Synthetic Fragrances
Synthetic fragrances can make shampoos smell amazing, but they often contain undisclosed chemicals that may cause irritation or allergic reactions. For those with sensitive skin, it’s best to opt for fragrance-free products.
5. Phthalates
Phthalates are used to extend the life of synthetic fragrances and make products more flexible. However, they’ve been linked to hormonal disruptions and can pose environmental risks.
Why Natural Hair Care Products Are Better
Natural hair care products are free from harmful chemicals like sulfates, parabens and silicones. Instead, they use plant-derived ingredients and essential oils to provide gentle, effective cleansing and nourishment.
Natural shampoos and conditioners can:
- Hydrate and nourish hair without stripping natural oils
- Reduce the risk of irritation or allergic reactionsBe environmentally friendly, using biodegradable ingredients
- Suit various hair and skin types, including those with sensitive scalps
Shop Natural Hair Care at Stride Store
Looking for a natural hair care solution that skips the harmful chemicals? Discover Devil’s Hair and Beard Care at Stride Store. Handcrafted in Australia, their products are vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free, making them a trusted choice for natural grooming.
Explore Devil’s Hair and Beard Care online and enjoy free shipping across Australia. Make the switch to better hair care today! Shop leading Australian brands all in the one convenient place at Stride Store.