Using shampoo to clean your scalp is common but do you have any idea that what’s in it? There are very few people who know about it or even show interest in different ingredients like parabens and sulfates. It may seem a tedious task but looking for different ingredients in the shampoo and conditioner apart from just being ‘oil-free’ and ‘moisturizing’ will always be helpful.
This article tries to find out that what actually parabens and sulfates are and what effect do they have on your hair.
What Are Parabens?First introduced during the 1950s, Parabens are actually preservatives that were used in skincare and hair care products so that the shelves life of these products increases. They prevent the products from growth of bacteria and mold. Now, the question is when they seem to be so useful why are they preferred now? You need to know about the cost that you have to pay and why companies are trying to make products free of it.
Pros: Parabens increases the shelve life of the products for even years and they do not affect the quality of the product. It is also a cheap option for preservative that makes it so popular among different companies.
Cons: Parabens when sued regularly can penetrate inside human skin and it has been found even in marine animals. When used in small doses it may not be that harmful but when used for long the affects may be harsh.
The fact is that although dermatologists are protesting against use of parabens but the manufacturer may use them in different name. Thus, if you want paraben free products make sure that these ingredients are also not there in the list, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben
What Are Sulfates? Sulfates are used in hair care products since 1930s when they were used for increasing the foam. They are aggressive detergent that creates a foamy lather which is associated with cleaning of scalp.
The fact is that sulfates have negative effect on your skin and hair.
Pros: Sulfates are quite powerful, cheap and easily available.
Cons: They are very aggressive and they are even used in heavy construction machinery for de-greasing and cleaning. While you use it regularly it will strip out the essential oils from your hair letting your scalp dry.
If you want to use sulfate free products you must also avoid ones that has the following in the ingredient list. Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Cocoyl Isoethionate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Sodium Lauroyl Taurate, Sodium Lauroyl Isoethionate, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isoethionate and Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate.
We have a selection of hair extension sulfate-free aftercare productsavailable in our store.