To use or not to use hair products with Sulphates & Parabens?
The confusion about whether or not to use sulphates and parabens has been going on for ages. While everyone seems to follow the ‘let’s avoid parabens and sulphates in hair care” motto (shampoo, conditioner, hair serum etc), how many of us are actually aware of what parabens and sulphates are? Worry not, we’re here to fill you in on all the deets! Let’s begin with the basics.
Parabens are combinations called esters or preservatives used in most beauty products. Parabens have a quality to prevent bacteria, fungi, and yeast growth. Therefore, adding parabens to beauty products increases their shelf life
On the other hand, Sulphates are surfactants. These are the chemicals that increase the cleansing effect of the product. They extract oil, dirt and grime from your hair. Sulphates sometimes even strip out natural oil from hair, causing heavy damage in the long run.
But wait, that’s not it! Take out your notepad, because we’ve got more on why you need to be mindful of what goes in your favourite hair products!
Parabens
1.Possible Allergic Reaction
Parabens have been repeatedly questioned for their safety and rightfully so! These chemicals can cause various allergic reactions and even trigger dermatitis. Parabens can even exacerbate certain skin conditions in the user.
2. Possible Hormonal Disruption
Parabens in your products can cause hormonal imbalances in your body. This chemical can interfere with the production of hormones and further trigger allergies like dermatitis.
3. Potential Cause Of Breast Cancer
Some studies have shown that parabens might interfere with regular hormones and can potentially encourage abnormal growth that can lead to tumours or cancerous cell formation. While this is a one-in-a-million phenomenon, precaution is always better than cure.
Sulphates
1.Strips Away The Natural Oil
As we’ve mentioned before, Sulphates in your hair care are a big no-no. They literally strip your hair and scalp of their natural oils, leaving them dry and lifeless.
2. Causes Hairfall
Wondering why you are experiencing massive hair fall off late? Well, maybe it’s the weather, but it might even be the sulphate formulation in your shampoo, conditioner or hair serum. Yes, you read it right. When added to your hair care products, Sulphates can cause excessive hair fall.
3. Causes Irritation
Sulphate can cause scalp allergies, leading to an itchy scalp, split ends and eventually excessive hair loss. Additionally, sulphates can also irritate the eye when in contact.
How To Identify Their Existence In Your Hair Care?
In light of how Parabens and Sulphates are harmful to your hormones and skin, it is always advisable to choose your products carefully and restrict contact with these harmful chemicals. Sulphates and Parabens are two of the most loved chemicals of almost every hair care brand. But with so much awareness around these two infamous chemicals, brands are now focusing on formulating sulphate and paraben-free products. Here are three ways in which you can identify the existence of S & Bs in your hair care:
1. Read The Label
The first step is to check the packaging label of your hair care product. To attract consumer attention and cash in on their awareness, brands use labels to highlight the fact that their shampoo is Sulphate and Paraben-free. So the primary step to identify the existence of S & Bs in your shampoo is to check the label for any mention of the same.
2. Lustreless Tresses
The most significant sign of healthy hair is shine, and if that’s the one thing missing, then you need to reflect on your choice of hair care products. Re-check the ingredients and make sure that these products are free of S & Bs. Go ahead and make that much-needed switch to chemical-free hair care and experience the difference!
3. Hairfall / Hair loss
One of the most important signs to look out for is when our hair starts to fall excessively. Hair thinning or hair fall is your hair’s way of telling you something is wrong with what you are putting on your scalp. Don’t ignore this sign. Ensure you jump right into looking out for solutions!
What Else Can You Do To Make Your Hair Happy?
Happy hair is equal to a happier you! Your hair deserves your love and attention, so make sure to always use the right hair care products. Choosing the right shampoo, conditioner, and hair serum are key. Also, remember to invest in a scalp-friendly protein treatment for hair, as this treatment will help you keep your hair nourished and shiny!
So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get going and double-check your hair care products for harmful chemicals and make that switch ASAP!
