Moneycontrol News | August 23, 2024
Image: Canva
Understanding the ingredients in your shampoo and their effects on your hair and scalp can help you make informed choices that support your hair's health
Read the label carefully
Image: Canva
Opting for gentle, natural, and pH-balanced shampoos and limiting the frequency of washing can go a long way towards maintaining healthy, beautiful hair
Opt for gentle, pH-balanced products
Image: Canva
Many commercial shampoos contain sulphates, such as sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES), which are strong detergents responsible for the foaming action
Harsh chemicals
Image: Canva
While these chemicals effectively remove dirt and oil, they can also strip the hair and scalp of their natural oils, leading to dryness, brittleness, and irritation
Hair's natural oil is critical
Image: Canva
Parabens are used as preservatives but have been linked to potential health risks, including hormone disruption. Continuous exposure can weaken the hair over time, making it more susceptible to damage
Beware of parabens
Image: Canva
While shampoos are designed to remove excess oil and impurities, overuse can lead to the removal of too much sebum. Without adequate natural oil, hair becomes dry and is vulnerable to damage and breakage
Vulnerable to damage
Image: Canva
Shampoos that are not pH-balanced can raise the scalp’s pH, leading to dryness, irritation, and even an overproduction of oil as the scalp tries to rebalance itself
Look for pH-balanced shampoos
Image: Canva
Frequent shampooing with products containing strong detergents or high pH levels, can cause the cuticle to lift. A damaged cuticle can result in split ends, increased frizz, and a dull appearance
Damaged cuticle, dull appearance
Image: Canva
Many shampoos are formulated with synthetic fragrances and dyes. These can cause allergic reactions, scalp irritation, and even long-term damage
Synthetic fragrances and dyes
Image: Canva
Some shampoos contain ingredients that are harsh on the hair follicles. When the scalp is stripped of natural oils, the hair follicles become weak, leading to shedding and slower hair growth
Potential for increased hair loss