Natural versus Commercial Shampoo
Most commercial shampoos on the market include a range of synthetic ingredients. Lather isn't necessary for a shampoo to clean well, but consumers typically expect shampoos to lather well. If it doesn't create rich lather, they don't think the product cleans all that well.
When choosing your hair care products you should try to avoid products containing the following ingredients:
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Sodium Lauryl Sulfates
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Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
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Mureth Sulfate
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Siloxanes
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Derivatives of Lauryl Alcohol
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Mureth Sulfate
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Propylene Glycol (Antifreeze)
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Olefin Sulfonate (Deodorized Kerosene)
Synthetic lathering agents such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) draw the moisture out of the skin and cause dryness and irritation. These chemicals affect not only our hair but also our bodies they are absorbed through our skin and we’re potentially putting ourselves at risk of cancer and disease.
Ingredients typically contained in commercial 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 hai
Natural shampoos are made with natural plant oils and herb extracts that
- promote new hair growth by naturally stimulating the hair follicles, maintaining the moisture and improving the overall condition of your hair and scalp
- they are non-allergenic and suitable for all skin types including sensitive and allergy prone skin
- have more natural and milder aroma
- are environmentally friendly as they contain bio-degradable materials rather than harsh chemicals
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. Some natural products state they are organic however this is not always the case. Try to find shampoo that is made with these natural ingredients:
- Coconut oil - has been proven to stimulate the growth of hair by keeping the scalp moisturized
- Cold Pressed Castor Oil - The anti-bacterial and anti-fungicidal properties of ricinoleic acid in castor oil protect the scalp and hair from infections that can cause hair loss. The omega-9 fatty acids also nourish the hair and prevent the scalp from drying. Castor oil in a shampoo will keep the hair soft, shiny and strong.
- Cold Pressed Olive oil - Olive oil replaces the moisture and elasticity because it is naturally rich in vitamin E and other powerful antioxidants that have tremendous healing and preserving properties.
- Jojoba oil – considered a supreme hair conditioner it moisturizes the scalp, enhances new hair cell growth, soothes irritated skin cells, has antibacterial properties and prevents your hair from being brittle and dull
- Organic Shea butter enhances the natural shine and colour of hair
- Vitamin E – natural conditioner for dry and damaged hair.