Hello my dear readers!
For a very long time I tried various cosmetic hair care products: medicinal, professional, natural.
Observed a special diet and tried to understand the vitamins for hair.
And in the end, I came to the conclusion that I spent a huge amount of time, money, and even useful products, just for nothing.
I especially flew with shampoos, buying something that simply could not solve my problems with hair.
It is only now, I finally figured out that 90% of all shampoos are just well-promoted marketing moves.
Most of them can not stop hair loss, enhance their growth and improve the overall condition.
Therefore, I decided to share with you information on how to save money on shampoos, what components are included in the composition of hair shampoos.
Which of them will be absolutely useless for your hair, what can replace the shampoo and what should be part of a good hair shampoo.
From this article you will learn:
The composition of the shampoo components and their properties
So, first, let's understand what is shampoo.
The main components of any shampoo:
- Base or detergent (Water and surfactant)
- Special agents that provide shampoo its properties
- Preservatives to ensure long shelf life
- Ingredients that provide shampoo pH balance
- Dyes, flavors, stabilizers, thickeners, etc.
Most often, when choosing a shampoo, we pay attention to the point number two!
We carefully consider the label and see ingredients like antioxidants, vitamins, herbal extracts, fruit acids, pearl dust, collagen, etc. in the product.
It seems to us that with such a composition, shampoo simply cannot be useless and will definitely make our hair soft, healthy, strong and shiny!
Alas, this is just another myth (the same as biotin) or another clever marketing move.
The main active ingredients of any shampoo
Despite the fact that the label with shampoo may be the inscription "Moisturizing shampoo with proteins, vitamins, rosemary oil, coconut and chamomile extract" the main components of this and any other shampoo will be:
- water
- The base of the shampoo is a surfactant-surfactant (detergent or surfactant) that forms foam and removes dirt from hair.
They occupy about 50% of the basic composition of the shampoo, the remaining 50% share the dyes, thickeners, flavors, silicones, preservatives, and some other useful substances that you read about on the shampoo label.
Sulfate base shampoo - the most harmful components of the shampoo
As a surfactant, lauryl or laureth sodium sulfate Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (or ammonium) (SLS and SLES) are used most often in shampoos, which can perfectly clean hair from grease and dirt and form a strong thick foam.
But, these components have a very aggressive irritant effect on the scalp and a cumulative effect.
Applying these shampoos constantly, you turn your scalp into very sensitive, dry and irritated, which will constantly itch, peel off and excrete sebum in such quantity that you have to wash your hair every day.
And thanks to all this, your hair will crumble and have just a terrible look.
Good basics
The following bases serve as a better and milder substitute for these surfactants:
- TEA Layril Sulfate (Triethanolamine Lauryl Sulphate),
- TEA (Triethanolamine),
- Cocamide dea,
- DEA-Cetyl phosphate,
- DEA Oleth-3 phosphate,
- Myristamide DEA,
- Stearamide Mea,
- Cocamide Mea,
- Lauramide dea,
- Linoleamide mea,
- Oleamide dea,
- TEA-Lauryl Sulfate,
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate and sodium myristyl ether sulfate,
- Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate,
- Magnesium Laureth Sulfate,
- Coco Glucoside, Sodium Myreth Sulfate and sodium myristyl ether sulfate.
Shampoos with such bases can cause a completely different reaction, something that suits one, causes dandruff and itching in another, or dries hair in a third.
But, in essence, they are also able to irritate the skin, so personally I will not buy myself a shampoo with such basics.
In addition, I have already checked most of them on my own head, so if you have dry and sensitive scalp, these basics will not save you.
Top basics
These commonly include non-ionic surfactants and / or amphoteric surfactants. As a rule, they are much more expensive than harmful cheap basics.
They foam less strongly, unlike SLS, but perfectly restore the scalp, do not violate its pH and do not cause irritation.
For myself, I have identified the following good bases in shampoos and I can safely recommend them for use.
- Cocoamidopropyl Betaine
- Decyl Glucoside or decyl polyglucose
- Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate
- Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
As a rule, such shampoos are difficult to find in regular stores of household chemicals or mass market. They need to look in the stores of organic or professional cosmetics.
You are very lucky if you find a shampoo consisting entirely of some of these bases or of their complex.
Most often they are added as a second component to the more aggressive bases for their dilution.
Brands of good shampoos with soft and healthy essentials
To a brief description of each of these basics, I added a link to a suitable shampoo that contains it.
Not for advertising, but in order that if someone decides to buy such a tool, he knows where it can be done and in what brands of cosmetics they can be found.
- Cocoamidopropyl Betaine- very soft and low-allergenic surfactant. It is produced from coconut oil fatty acids. Contained in many Jason Natural shampoos
- Decyl Glucoside or decyl polyglucose- a mild surfactant consisting of glucose derived from corn starch, coconut fatty acids. On this basis, Avalon Organics and Biotene H-24s make their famous shampoos.
- Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate- natural surfactant obtained by the reaction of coconut and palm oil with sugar and starch. A popular base for baby shampoos found in BabySpa products
- Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate- Natural soft safe surfactant derived from sarcosine - a natural amino acid contained in vegetables and fruits. Absolutely does not irritate the skin, ideally carefully cares for hair and restores their structure. This base is present in organic shampoos by Alba Botanica
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate-SAV with a mild dermatological effect, often used in children's shampoos and shampoos for sensitive scalp. Shampoos on this basis represent the Nature's Gate brand.
- This may also include organic soap bases from soap root, soapworm or soap nuts.
Using shampoos on such bases, you will be able to completely restore the skin of your head, which means, with constant use and proper use, you will ensure your hair a healthy and beautiful appearance.
Of the above, I used the second, third and fifth. And only the third shampoo did not meet my expectations.
But here I want to emphasize one important factor PWhen choosing a shampoo, it is necessary to take into account your hair type.
Because shampoo of the same brand, but with a slightly different composition, can affect your hair in absolutely different ways.
Useless shampoo ingredients
- Silicones
Designed to smooth the scales of our hair and make them smooth and shiny. that is, when silicone is applied to damaged hair, the scales are smoothed, the silicone reflects light and the hair begins to shine.
As you understand, no hair restoration takes place, and the accumulated silicones make the hair heavier and spoil it.
- Vitamins and provitamin in shampoos
Those who understand the chemical composition of the hair know that it does not contain any vitamins. Therefore, no vitamins from the outside, applied externally to the hair, will in no way affect their condition, through the heads, they will not penetrate there either.
The presence of vitamins in shampoo is useless. Vitamins should not be poured on the head, but taken orally and it is best done using healthy natural plant products.
- Fruit acid
Very often in the composition of shampoos can be found fruit acids. It is believed that they moisturize the hair, which is an absolute myth. Best for hair to use fruit inside.
Unlike our skin, hair does not have wrinkles and does not always serve as an indicator of age.
Putting shampoos with a super antioxidant complex on hair will not affect the condition of our hair. This is just a useless additive to give importance to the shampoo and increase its value.
- Various herbal extracts
Very often we see shampoos which contain extracts of various herbs (aloe extract, birch leaves, nettle, chamomile, horsetail, etc.)
Their effectiveness will always depend on the amount of these components. If they form the basis of the shampoo (and such shampoos really exist), then it is likely that these components will be able to improve the condition of your hair, but if there are very few of these components (which is most often found in cheap shampoos), then the effect of this shampoo will be zero.
Pay attention to what place are the plant extracts on the label with shampoo, if closer to the end, then such a shampoo does not make sense to take.
Pay particular attention to the fact which particular extracts will be listed there.
For example, if you see in the shampoo extracts of rose, white magnolia, lotus, and other exotic plants, you can be sure that these ingredients are added there in the smallest quantities and only for the inscription on the label. In addition, no one knows what quality these extracts were.
Many shampoos promise UV protection to your hair.. However, most modern studies show that the use of such shampoos provides only minimal protection for hair from UV rays.
And even if the composition of the shampoo can contain such beneficial components that can somehow affect the skin of our head or the hair itself (for example, honey, royal jelly, menthol, clay, protein hydrolysates, ceramides, plant extracts, lecithins, vegetable or essential oils), most of them “work” for exactly 2–3 minutes, until you wash the shampoo off your head.
Therefore, if you want these components to show their therapeutic effect, do not immediately wash off the shampoo, but let it work for at least 10 minutes. Especially, if shampoo with effect of the conditioner on natural oils.
CONCLUSION
When you read labels and look at the components of shampoos, remember that of all listed, and there may be more than 30, only 2 or 3 will actually act on your hair.
The remaining ingredients will cause the shampoo its appearance, safety, color and aroma, and just enrich its composition on the label, forcing you to buy it, spend your money on something that will not affect your hair when used.
Therefore, when buying a shampoo, you should not pay attention to all its rich composition, to the loud name and description, to advertising.
The most harmful ingredients of shampoo
- DIETHANOLOMINE (DEA)
- Phthalates
- LAS-Tenside (LAS-TENSID)
- Benzene
- Propylene glycol
- PARABENES
- TRIKLOZAN
- and other hazardous components.
MY SECRETIAN
For more than a month, following the advice of Rickett Gofshtein (a world specialist in trichology), I completely refused shampoos, replacing them with Castilian soap (based on olive, coconut, castor oil and shea butter). And I really like it ☺
It does not have an irritating effect, gently washes hair and foams well. At the same time, the scalp is restored and its greasiness is regulated, which is the most important factor for healthy hair.
And this soap can serve as an excellent basis for homemade shampoos.
By the way, black African soap has the same effect. But, I will tell about it in more detail in the following posts.
Be sure to watch this interesting video with recipes for homemade shampoos that will help restore your hair NATURALLY.
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The composition of shampoos
- Water - the main component of the composition of each shampoo.
- Surface active substances in the composition of the shampoo (surfactant) - the most important active ingredient, which is responsible for cleaning hair from dirt, dust, sebum.
- Additional surfactants that provide foam, softness, hydration.
- Thickening agent or foam stabilizer, defoamer.
- Preservatives.
- Flavors.
What harmful substances can be contained in shampoos?
- Lauryl- and laureth sulfates— are the basis of shampoos and very coarse surfactants. They are responsible for intensive foaming during washing and for cleansing the skin and hair, are part of almost all shampoos.
On labels, they are indicated as follows:
According to the Journal of the American College of Toxicology (1983, Vol. 2, No. 7): The researchers noted that the longer these ingredients come into contact with the skin, the more likely it is to cause irritation and an allergic reaction. Lauryl- and laureth sulfates cause changes in the “epidermis”, clog pores, settle on the surface of the hair follicle and damage them, can cause eye irritation, hair loss, and dandruff.
Other researchers have concluded that these components remove not only impurities, but also useful natural components from the skin, thereby disrupting its protective function. Under the influence of laureth sulfates, the skin ages faster (Int J Toxicol. 2010 Jul, 29, doi: 10.1177 / 1091581810373151).
Although, scientists have not yet proved that these substances may be carcinogenic (from the English. Cancer) or toxic effects, there is still such a danger. It is believed that in a concentration of from 1-5% they are harmless. In the composition of shampoos laureth sodium sulfate is present in a concentration of 10-17% (as a rule, they are listed in second place after the water, which means that their concentration is maximum).
At the same time, there are softer surfactants, they are added in a small concentration, they are less harmful, but their cost is rather high compared to lauryl and laureth sulfates. On the packaging, they can be labeled as:
- Sodium cocoyl isethinate (the mildest surfactant)
- Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate (soft emulsifier)
- Sodium coco-sulfate
- Cocamidopropyl Betaine (betaine)
- Decyl polyglucose (polyglycoside)
- Сocamidopropyl sulfobetaine (sulfobetaine)
- Sodium sulfosuccinate (sulfosuccinate)
- Magnesium Lauryl Sulfate
- Glythereth cocoate
- Parabens are also dangerous components in the composition of shampoos. We already wrote about their harm.
- Mineral oils (mineral oil) - refined petroleum products. It is believed that they can only be dangerous if ingested. However, WHO attributes mineral oils to the 1st group of carcinogenic substances. That is, they are potentially dangerous substances that can lead to the occurrence of malignant tumors. And only highly purified oils are not considered dangerous. Mass market shampoos contain unrefined hazardous mineral oils.
- Formaldehyde (formaldehyde) - cosmetic preservative. It has toxicity, a negative effect on the reproductive organs, respiratory and central nervous system. Due to the ban on the use of formaldehyde in cosmetics, manufacturers began to designate it as Quaternium-15 (it releases free gaseous formaldehyde), Dowicil 75 Dowicil 100, Dowicil 200 - they all cause contact dermatitis in humans.
- Phthalates - used in the manufacture of consumer products such as perfumes, cosmetics and shampoos, medical devices, soft toys.In the journal Pediatrics, a study was published that provides compelling evidence that phthalates in baby cosmetics affect the reproductive function of boys. Particularly dangerous effect of phthalates on children. Infants are exposed to phthalates from shampoos, lotions and powders.
Phthalates can cause asthma, infertility, reduced testosterone concentrations in boys. Due to health problems associated with exposure to phthalates, some of them have been banned in the European Union and the United States.
- "PEG" (Polyethylene glycol), polyethylene glycol (ethylene glycol) - stabilizer, thickener, defoamer. This substance due to its ability to influence the processes in the body can cause serious metabolic disorders. It has been proven that females of animals that consumed PEG gave birth to babies with genetic changes. (Anderson et al., 1985).
Harmful ingredients in shampoos
In order to see which shampoos contain harmful substances, it is enough to go to any cosmetics store and pay attention to relatively cheap but well-advertised brands. Despite the fact that manufacturers indicate on the packages of these products a phrase that is very profitable for their business, such as “Restores hair structure”, “Nourishes from the very roots”, etc., in fact, almost all these shampoos contain hazardous component number 1, namely, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate.
SLS comes second in the list of ingredients in most shampoos. Being a detergent and excellent foaming agent, it is a cheap and easy to use component. Thanks to Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, one drop of product is enough to get plenty of foam. Many buyers believe that the amount of foam produced to some extent determines the quality of the product, but this is far from the case.
The chemical composition of sodium lauryl sulfate allows this component to fall and accumulate in the tissues of the heart, liver and eyes. SLS impairs the body's metabolism and dries the scalp, despite its advantage in that it actually removes grease and dirt from the hair.
As a result of research conducted at the Medical College of the University of Georgia, it was found out what properties sodium lauryl sulfate has. Here are some of them:
- SLS eliminates grease and dirt by surface oxidation. As a result of exposure to a substance, a kind of film remains on the skin, which with prolonged contact causes irritation, itching, allergies and even redness.
SLS is able to change the protein composition of cells, impair the immune system. Not recommended for use for shampooing young children, as with prolonged exposure can cause various diseases, including cataracts.
SLS when ingested into the body through the pores of the scalp or body is practically not excreted by the liver.
SLS eliminates not only grease and dirt, but also a natural film of hair that protects the curls from the environment. Such a strong degreasing stimulates the activity of the sebaceous glands, as a result, the hair must be washed more often.
Looking into the composition of shampoos, in the top five names you can see another component called laureth sulfate, it creates the illusion of an expensive tool for the user, because with the help of just a few hand movements it has the ability to create a rich foam. Cheap surfactants are used in products such as bath foam, shower gel, makeup remover, intimate hygiene gel, etc. It is very profitable for manufacturers to include SLS and SLES in their products, therefore about 90% of all shampoos contain these aggressive components, not ceasing to be in demand by customers, though not among those who give preference to safe products.
To protect the shampoo, it is recommended to adhere to the following rules:
- If you attribute your skin to a sensitive type, you definitely will not need shampoos, which contain SLS and SLES. These components should also alert people with allergic skin, as well as for use by young children.
If you use the product with SLS or SLES once and rarely, nothing bad will happen to your skin or hair. Other if you do it often and regularly. Even small concentrations of these components can cause serious problems.
Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) also occupies one of the main positions in the TOP-5 of the most harmful ingredients of shampoos. Despite the fact that this additive is often used in the manufacture of cosmetics and even food industry products, it is absorbed into the skin over a short period of time and remains in tissues for a long period. Marked under the sign "carcinogen", causes a violation of the oxidation of fat on the strands and the surface of the head, can cause deterioration of the hair structure and hair loss.
The top five most dangerous substances in modern shampoos include Diethanolamine and Triethanolamine (DEA and TEA). Playing the role of blowing agents and emulsifiers in both cheap and expensive products, they can cause dryness and even irritation of the scalp. Beware of combining these ingredients with nitrates. With prolonged and frequent use of products with DEA and TEA in the body, the ability to absorb vitamin B4 may deteriorate.
Where to buy a good shampoo
Some users of natural shampoos complain that the products they have purchased are not capable of cleansing hair of grease and dirt as well as sulphate-containing products do. There is a great deal of truth in this, but there is one BUT! You can buy sulfate-free shampoos with chemicals that will cope with their tasks with a bang, but at the same time, will belong to a number of safe.
Let's look at some safe and effective shampoos:
1. YES to cucumbers - shampoo for dyed and damaged hair. The product of the American manufacturer contains 95% of natural substances, including dill extract, cucumber, green pepper, broccoli, aloe vera gel, citric acid, olive oil, lactic acid, vitamin E and panthenol. There are no parabens, petroleum products and hazardous SLS or SLES. Volume - 500 ml, price - 1110 rubles.
2. Desert Essence Coconut - shampoo for dry hair, containing rosemary leaf extract, olive oil, shea butter and coconut, burdock root extract, as well as other useful ingredients. As in the previous version, there are no sulfates and other harmful ingredients. Shampoo smells great coconut and foams well. Volume - 237 ml, price - $ 6.74.
3. Organic Shop “Moroccan Princess. Recovery - shampoo for all hair types. As part of no silicones, parabens and aggressive surfactants. Volume - 280 ml, cost - 244 rubles.
Video about the most dangerous components of shampoos:
Caution or paranoia?
Hair shampoo is one of the most sought-after and best-selling products in the Russian Federation. Even if a person adheres to minimalism in self-care, this tool on his shelf in the bathroom will certainly be found.
It is believed that shampoos are harmless to our body, because all samples are dermatologically tested and underwent clinical trials. But, nevertheless, they still have hazardous substances. They are hidden under incomprehensible letters, they can hide behind the wording “perfumery composition”, “perfume” or “preservative”.
The categories of especially dangerous are those that can lead to the limitation of skin functions, the violation of the integrity of the skin, dermatological and oncological diseases, and affect the hormonal background. What substances are we talking about? And why are they still present in the composition of shampoos?
No successful brand releases a new product to the market until it passes safety testing. Experts determine microbiological indicators, look for toxic elements (lead, mercury, arsenic), determine the mass fraction of chlorides and the product toxicity index. If all indicators are normal - the tool has the right to exist.
But troubles await where they are not usually expected. Even a proven tool can be harmful to health if it comes in contact with the scalp and hair longer than indicated on the label. Or if we are talking about the cumulative effect - the regular use of cosmetics with potentially dangerous compounds.
Therefore, checking the ingredients list of shampoo is a good idea. After all, true beauty is impossible without good health.
Cocamide mea
If your remedy from a couple of drops in the palm turns into an unusually thick and lush foam, you can assume the presence of this component. In shampoos it is introduced in order that the texture was dense and thick, and when soaping the product is well foamed. It would seem that the benefits are obvious! Shampoo is economical to use. But there is an alarming moment!
According to scientists, Cocamide MEA is a toxic substance. Experiments conducted by researchers from America showed that cocamide causes cancer in animals. After long trials, he was recognized as dangerous and forbidden to be included in cosmetics manufactured in the USA.
Sodium lauryl sulfate and Sodium laureth sulfate
Sodium lauryl sulfate hair cosmetics makers consider ideal. This cheap substance is a wetting agent, is involved in the formation of foam. Virtually no liquid soap, gel or shower foam, shampoo can do without it.
Meanwhile, this substance is in the lead in the lists of the most annoying surfactants, the list of which is very long. Sodium lauryl sulfate is guilty of the appearance of dryness and irritation of the skin, can lead to allergies and violation of the integrity of the skin. Therefore, manufacturers themselves "insure" - "balance" surfactant components that have the ability to reduce the likelihood of irritation.
As for Sodium laureth sulfate, it is less irritating to the skin, its irritation index ranges from mild to medium. But to call this substance safe is definitely not possible.
Approximately 95% of detergents in the territory of the Russian Federation contain SLS. They are indicated most often at the beginning of the list of ingredients. The accumulation of sulfates in the body can lead to cancer, ovarian dysfunction, alopecia (hair loss), and ophthalmologic diseases.
If, after applying the product, you feel dryness and tightness of the skin, most likely this is the action of SLS. Sulfates can corrode the lipid mantle of the skin, reducing the ability of the epidermis to retain moisture.
DMDM hydantoin
It is a popular preservative known for its ability to kill fungus and harmful microflora. It can often be found in the composition of shampoos against seborrhea.
According to some reports, almost 18% of this substance is formaldehyde, the action of which is fraught with DNA damage and lung cancer. But at the same time there is evidence that in low concentrations DMDM hydantoin is safe.
So, in the USA its concentration in shampoos cannot exceed 0.2%, and in the European Union 0.6%. The danger is that you never know what percentage of dimethylimidazolidine in your shampoo.
Sodium chloride
Consumer this substance is known as salt. In shampoos it is used as a preservative and thickener. If the concentration of the substance is low, everything is fine - the tool is completely safe. But if it exceeds the allowable rate, it can cause dryness and itching of the scalp.
You should not buy shampoos with Sodium chloride in the composition, if you have a sensitive skin of the scalp or you regularly carry out the procedure of keratin hair straightening. In the latter case, the effect will be very short-term.
Diethanolamine
This substance is in demand not only in the beauty industry, but also in areas that have nothing to do with it. For example, in industry - when processing wood. In shampoo organic alkali is used to neutralize acids, which is necessary to improve the properties of a cosmetic product.
Scientists warn that drugs with this substance can cause irritation of the scalp, leading to severe allergic reactions. In addition, they destroy everything that is useful in the structure of the hair, for example, keratin. As a result, the curls become dry, brittle and lifeless.
Dimethicone
This is a form of silicone, which is used not only in shampoos, but also in face creams, including children's cosmetics. Dimethicone is needed in order to prevent skin loss of moisture, to reduce the feeling of fat that occurs after the application of certain products. Although this component is considered relatively safe, there is much evidence to the contrary.
Doctors described cases of acne after applying cosmetics with Dimethicone. In addition, there is evidence that silicones clog pores, limit skin respiration, irritate hair follicles, and may contribute to hair loss. Trichologists and dermatologists advise to avoid shampoos and conditioners with this component in the composition.
Parfum or Fragrance
Thus, on the label of the shampoo are designated perfume compositions that provide a means of a pleasant aroma. Robert Doreen, A certified hair transplant surgeon claims that if one fragrance is decomposed into individual components, there will be several dozen chemicals in the simplest composition. And complex aromas can consist of more than 3 thousand components!
However, most aromatic substances are strong irritants. And some can cause a breakdown of the nervous system.
The last 12 years of my medical practice have been devoted to a deep study of hair health problems. I studied the scientific data and clinical studies of the influence of individual ingredients of cosmetics on the hair and scalp, the body as a whole. It was necessary to develop a line of care that would improve the condition of the patients' hair and scalp, and not harm them.
I am against the inclusion of the following substances in shampoos: Ammonium lauryl sulfate (ammonium lauryl sulfate), Sodium Chlorid (sodium chloride), Polyethylene glycol (polyethylene glycol), Sodium lauryl sulfate (sodium lauryl sulfate), Diethanolamine (diethanolamine), Paraben (parabens), Formaldehyde (formaldehyde), Alcohol (alcohol), Parfum (perfumery compositions).
10 harmful ingredients present in the shampoo
Initially, we say that substances harmful to the body can be included in the composition of surface-active components of shampoo, viscosity regulators, preservatives, flavors, stabilizers and nutrients.
1. DEA (diethanolamine)
This wetting agent is used in shampoos to create a thick foam. However, it is not a secret to anyone that DEA is one of the main components in the production of herbicides. Diethanolamine reacts with other substances of the shampoo and forms a carcinogen that easily penetrates the skin and can cause serious diseases of the genitourinary system, esophagus, liver and stomach.
2. SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate)
This component is a surfactant that quickly relieves surface tension, allowing the shampoo to quickly turn into a detergent. However, as in the case of diethanolamine, SLS reacts with other cosmetic substances, resulting in the formation of harmful carcinogens - nitrosamines. Today it is known that these substances can be the etiological factor of malignant tumors of the pancreas, stomach and especially blood.By the way, today the toxicity of sodium lauryl sulfate was confirmed by more than 40,000 studies!
3. SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate)
Another surfactant is considered less dangerous in comparison with SLS, however, doctors warn that this component may become the strongest allergen, as well as worsen the condition of people suffering from dermatitis. Moreover, when interacting with other substances, sodium luret sulphate forms toxic compounds - nitrates and dioxins, which poison the body for a long time, as they are poorly excreted by the liver.
4. Propylene glycol (propylene glycol)
In shampoos and other cosmetics, propylene glycol is used as a moisturizing component. The choice in favor of this oil product by manufacturers is explained by the banal cheapness, however, in comparison with the same glycerin, propylene glycol is prone to cause skin irritation and provoke allergic reactions of the body. Moreover, the researchers found that with regular use of cosmetics with this component in humans can be observed irreversible changes in the liver and kidneys. In addition, in industry, propylene glycol is used as a brake fluid, as well as antifreeze in cooling systems, which hardly adds confidence to this chemical.
5. Benzalconium chloride (benzalkonium chloride)
This is a well-known substance that is used in pharmacology as a disinfectant, in shampoos it plays the role of a preservative and surfactant. Here are just a few who know that recent studies indicate a serious harm of this component to the body. According to researchers, benzalkonium chloride can cause severe allergic reactions and provoke skin and respiratory diseases. Moreover, scientists suspect that this substance is extremely negative impact on the eyes, causing the occurrence of glaucoma. That is why today serious controversy is burning about the feasibility of using benzalkonium chloride in eye drops.
6. Quaternium-15 (Quaternium-15)
This component is widely used in shampoos and creams as a preservative. Here are just manufacturers are in no hurry to notify the public that at the time when the shampoo turns into a detergent, Quaternium-15 begins to produce formaldehyde - a known carcinogen that causes serious diseases, including the occurrence of cancer. By the way, in the European Union quaternium-15 is prohibited for use in cosmetics. Scientists have conducted a number of studies and assigned this component the status of "can not be safe in cosmetics."
7. Cocamidopropyle Betaine (Cocamidopropyl Betaine)
Manufacturers of shampoos and other cosmetics use cocamidopropyl betaine, derived from coconut fatty acids, as an antistatic and light conditioner. Moreover, this substance is present in cosmetics for adults, and in children's shampoos. But today there are serious concerns about the presence of cocamidopropyl betaine in shampoos, as information has emerged that this substance provokes allergic contact dermatitis. To be fair, we say that today there is no definite answer from scientists about the danger of this substance, but it is advisable to refrain from using it before the specialists withdraw it.
8. Methylechloroisothiazolinone (Methylchloroisothiazolinone)
This substance can often be found in liquid soap and other cosmetics for the body and face, including shampoos. Being a preservative of natural origin, he never raised concerns about the effects on the health of the body. However, today it is increasingly possible to hear that this component provokes an allergy. And sources associated with scientific research indicate concerns that methyl chloroisothiazolinol may cause cancer.
9. Methylisothiazolinone (Methylisothiazolinone)
Another common preservative, having a "reputation" of an allergenic substance. Moreover, laboratory tests on mammalian brain cells suggested that the substance could be neurotoxic, i.e. affecting the brain and nervous system. In addition, this component of the shampoo with a long stay on the skin irritates it, and therefore it is used exclusively in washable cosmetics.
10. Any artificial flavors.
Perfumes and fragrances present in modern shampoos can contain hundreds of various harmful compounds, including phthalates - dangerous chemicals that are associated with the development of asthma, thyroid diseases and cancer tumors, in particular, breast cancer in women. In addition, artificial flavors are considered the main cause of allergies to cosmetics.
How to choose safe products?
So, knowing the harm that the body components of shampoos can cause, going to the supermarket for a particular product, check its composition on the Internet and see if your shampoo contains synthetic or organic components. Moreover, read the opinion of experts about this brand of shampoo and their advice on what products are offered instead.
Train yourself to read labels before buying. However, there may be a problem, since many components are listed on the label in the form of a chemical name, and therefore not everyone can recognize them. In this case, again, do not be in a hurry with the choice, but first look at the Dictionary of the consumer of cosmetic ingredients and study the composition and influence of components that you do not understand.
By the way, do not be fooled by such marks on shampoo jars as “hypoallergenic”, “natural” or “organic”. Even an exclusively natural product can be chemically treated before it enters the shampoo and becomes a real poison for our body.
Moreover, the terms "natural" and "organic" are not the same thing! The term “natural” means that the product was obtained from a natural source, whereas an “organic” substance can be produced in an industrial environment without the use of chemicals and pesticides. Feel the difference? The use of organic compounds in the production of a product does not at all mean that it is completely organic.
According to the National Sanitary Protection Fund (NSF), only 70% of products in which organic substances are present can be marked “Made with organic ingredients”. The remaining 30% come to the market with chemically treated organic substances that are not allowed to wear such a label. As you can see, the usual shampoo that we use in everyday life can cause serious ailments, allergic reactions and even diseases. Think about it, once again choosing for yourself a head wash! Good health to you!
Detergent - a mandatory component of any shampoo
The most harmful components of the components that make up shampoos are detergentsthat relate to surfactants. They have detergent properties and foam well, so that various types of dust and grease contaminants are easily removed from the hair. If we place the detergents in order to reduce the adverse effect, the list will look like this:
• Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate - ammonium lauryl sulfate,
• Ammonium Laureth Sulfate - ammonium laureth sulfate,
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate - sodium lauryl sulfate,
• Sodium Laureth Sulfate - sodium laureth sulfate,
• TEA Lauril Sulfate - TEA Lauryl Sulfate,
• TEA Laureth Sulfate - Laureth Sulfate TEA.
The first three substances, as a rule, are always components of cheap shampoos. They are recognized carcinogenic , easily penetrate the skin, accumulate in the body, and with disorders in the immune system can lead to health problems.
If you find these three components in your makeup, then the best option would be to throw out these products. Laureth sodium sulfate is less harmful than sodium lauryl sulfate.
The last two substances, in most cases, used in expensive shampoos and less harmful. Manufacturers always indicate the type of detergent that is part of the shampoo, its name is first on the label in the list of detergent components.
Insofar as detergents can dry hairBy depriving them of their vitality, various shampoos are added to shampoos. softenersthat make hair obedient. That is, they are able, to a certain extent, to neutralize the effect of detergents used. In this connection it is necessary pay attention to the fact that the composition of the shampoo were:
• Сocamidopropyl Betaine - cocamidopropyl betaine - compatible with other components, acts as a light conditioner, is antistatic. Used in baby shampoos, it is considered an expensive component.
• Decyl polyglucose - decyl glucoside - reduces the irritating effect of aggressive cleaners, suitable for sensitive skin. This component is derived from corn and coconuts.
• Glycereth cocoate - Glyceret Cocoat,
• Disodium cocoamphodiacetate - cocoamphodiacetate sodium,
• Cocoamidopropyl Sulfo Betaine - cocamidopropyl sulfobetaine.
Preservatives
Without this additive, modern shampoo simply cannot exist, it is preservatives that retain its properties and prevent the growth of microorganisms in the shampoo, which can cause allergies. However, not all preservatives are harmless.
For preservatives include:
- Formaldehyde (formaldehyde). This substance belongs to carcinogens, but it is widely used in the manufacture of shampoos as a preservative. Formaldehyde is toxic and can have a negative effect on the organs of vision and respiration, as well as worsen the condition of the skin. Formaldehyde can also be hidden under the following names: DMDM Hydantoin diazolidinyl urea, Imidazalidol urea, Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, monosodium salt, N- (Hydroxymethyl) glycine and quaternium-15
- Parabens (parabens). These are preservatives that can inhibit the growth of microorganisms. Parabens are substances that can cause allergies. Accumulating in tissues, they can lead to hormonal imbalance and the development of malignant tumors. Ethylparaben, butylparaben, methylparaben, as well as propylparaben are parabens.
- Sodium benzonate or benzoic acid - is a natural preservative, contained in lingonberries and cranberries, used in the food industry (E211),
Thickeners
Thickeners are responsible for the viscosity and density of the shampoo, as well as foam stabilizers, these include:
- Cocamide DEA (Cocamide DEA), it is used as a thickener, foaming agent, antistatic agent, softener, etc.
- Kokamid MEA (Cocamide MEA),
- PEG-4 thickener monoethanolamide canola oil,
Other components of the shampoo
In addition to harmful surface-active substances, preservatives and sweeteners in the composition of the shampoo are many ingredients that have varying degrees of usefulness. These are various paints, fragrances and antibacterial components. It is necessary to refuse the shampoos containing:
• Diethanolamine (dietanolamine). This substance has moisturizing properties, but it can provoke the occurrence of allergies. Shampoos with this component can have a negative effect on the respiratory system.
• Mineral oils (paraffins, vaseline). These substances are obtained from oil, they are capable of forming a water-repellent film, but at the same time they retain not only moisture, but also various harmful substances, disturbing the metabolism. In addition, they prevent the saturation of hair and skin with oxygen.
When choosing a shampoo, remember that high-quality shampoos with a minimum amount of harmful substances are usually sold in pharmacies. However, they have weak washing properties, slight foaming and lack of color and odor.
