We’re all becoming increasingly aware of what’s in the products we use every day from the food we consume to the skincare we use in our daily routines. What we put on and in our bodies matters. Some countries have even banned certain ingredients from being used in cosmetics. The FDA however, doesn’t require that shampoos and conditioners go through a stringent premarket evaluation as they do for food and drugs. Some developed countries still have a long way to go. Ingredients such as parabens, formaldehyde, and even coal-tar can be commonly found in hair products along with a plethora of other toxic and harmful ingredients.
What’s worse is that sometimes these ingredients are disguised under a pseudonym of sorts so they can be tricky to pick out. Fear not, choosing the right shampoo doesn’t have to be daunting. We’ve outlined 11 harmful ingredients below that are commonly found in hair products.
Endocrine System
First up, is a quick look at our endocrine system. Did you know that certain cosmetics can interfere with your hormones? Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interfere with the body’s natural hormone production. Hormones play a huge role in our overall health and well-being. Disrupting them can cause all sorts of issues such as developmental and reproductive problems, thyroid dysfunction, weight gain, and even cancer.
Endocrine disruptors can be found in a variety of personal care products such as shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, and make-up. So what are they?
Common endocrine disruptors:
- parabens
- benzophenones
- bisphenols
- phthalates
Parabens
One of the most common endocrine disruptors is parabens. Parabens are a class of chemicals used as preservatives in many cosmetic products. They can be found in shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, make-up, and even food. Studies have shown that parabens can mimic estrogen.
Benzophenones
Another common endocrine disruptor found in hair products are benzophenones. These chemicals are often used in sunscreen to protect against UV rays. It can also be found in hairsprays, shampoos and dyes. However, they can also disrupt the hormone system. Benzophenones have been linked to reproductive problems and thyroid issues. If you use a color protecting shampoo you may just find benzophenones listed in the ingredients.
Bisphenols
Bisphenols are another type of endocrine disruptor. Bisphenols are found in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. They can leach out of packaging and contaminate products. Bisphenols have been linked to a number of health problems such as reproductive abnormalities, miscarriages, breast and prostate cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Research has even linked them to issues in the brain and increased blood pressure. So how do you avoid this one? Most products are stored in plastic packaging. Look for glass and stainless packaging. Look for BPA free and make sure BPA isn’t a listed ingredient.
Phthalates
The common phthalates found in hair products are:
– diethyl phthalate (DEP)
– dimethyl phthalate (DMP)
– benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP)
– dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
These chemicals are all endocrine disruptors and can cause reproductive problems and birth defects. Phthalates are associated with increased risk of miscarriage, reduced birth weight, and early onset of puberty. They can also be associated with obesity, type II diabetes, and heart disease.
Sulfites
Now let’s take a look at sulfites. Sulfites are a preservative and they can cause allergic reactions in some people. They can cause allergic reactions in some people, including skin irritation and breathing problems. Sulfites have also been linked to asthma attacks.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen. It can also cause skin and respiratory irritation. Common forms of formaldehyde are:
- methylene glycol
- polyoxymethylene urea
- DMDM hydantoin
- sodium hydroxymethylglycinate
- glyoxal
- quaternium-15
- imidazolidinyl urea
- diazolidinyl urea
- bromopol
Fragrances
Fragrances are a common ingredient in hair products, but they can also be one of the most harmful. Fragrances are made up of many different chemicals, and because of this they are protected by trade secrets. This means that companies don’t have to disclose what is in their fragrances. Fragrances can contain phthalates which are endocrine disruptors. They have been linked to reproductive problems and birth defects. If you want to avoid fragrance in your hair products look for products that are labeled “unscented”. Or if you don’t want to forgo the scent, research companies who take a stand against harmful ingredients and are transparent about the ingredients they do use.
Conclusion
Ok so that got pretty technical! Is your head spinning yet? There is a lot to learn about endocrine disruptors even amongst researchers so cut yourself some slack. The main takeaway is that you need to be an informed consumer and generally avoid harmful ingredients in your hair products.There are a few big ones to look out for- sulfites, parabens, and phthalates.
There are many great companies creating safe and healthy hair products, so do your research before making a purchase. Start small. Try a shampoo first. Chances are the same company is being mindful of what goes into their other products.
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