Why you don’t want sulfates, parabens, and phthalates in your hair products

Sulfates are detergents, or surfactants, commonly found in products like shampoo. Sulphates are an efficient cleanser they strip away moisture, leaving the hair dry and unhealthy. Sulfates can dry your scalp and cause skin irritation resulting in an acceleration of hair loss but it is not generally thought that sulfates are dangerous to your health.

Parabens are a powerful preservative and are normally added to extend the life of hair products and prevent the build-up of mould, fungus and bacteria. Parabens can cause hair loss because they are easily absorbed through your skin – drying and irritating your scalp. Studies have shown that parabens may increase the estrogen hormone (female hormone) and they may contribute to the risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer in women. Parabens are banned in the European Union. All in all - they ain’t something you want on your head or skin.

Phthalates are one of the most commonly used chemicals in the world and are found in everyday products, including hair products. Phthalates are used as gelling agents in some hair products and they help lubricate and soften substances. Phthalates can be potentially toxic in high concentrations and in animal testing, some phthalates caused malformations and permanent damage of the male reproductive system. So protect your junk and make sure you are using phthalate free products.