10 most toxic ingredients in hair products

2024 Author: James Gerald | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 14:00

Toxic ingredients in shampoos and hair dyes can harm more than just your hair. Find out more about the most dangerous substances that seriously affect our health.

Knowing the enemy by sight, you can refuse to use dangerous means. Therefore, study the labels and buy only harmless products.

1. Aminomethyl propanol

It is used to regulate the pH in many hair products and is safe below 2%, but many products contain much higher amounts. The greatest danger is posed by dyes and hair straightening products. If the concentration of aminomethyl propanol exceeds 12%, it becomes a carcinogen.

The greatest danger is posed by dyes and hair straightening products.

2. Ammonium persulfate

One of the most dangerous toxins can be found in bleach and color-treated hair products. It irritates the scalp. Eye and nasal mucosa. Long-term use can cause the development of dermatitis and asthma.

3. Diethanolamine, monoethanolamine and triethanolamine

These three substances interfere with hormonal activity. They are most commonly found in shampoos and may be involved in carcinogenic compounds with the highest risk of kidney and liver cancer. In the list of components, they may be hidden under the names: DEA lauramide, DEA cocamide and DEA oleamide. All three substances can negatively affect keratin, leaving hair dry and brittle.

4. Derivatives of formaldehyde

The most common are imidazolidinyl urea and DMDM hydantoin. They do not contain formaldehyde, but are derived from formaldehyde and may have similar effects. It is one of the most toxic ingredients because it is potentially carcinogenic and can cause asthma, allergies and mood disorders.

5. Isopropyl alcohol

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This petroleum-derived solvent is used in shellac, antifreeze, and hair and body care products including gels and sprays. It dissolves oils and therefore has a negative effect on sebum and, if inhaled, can cause headaches, dizziness and more serious conditions including nausea, vomiting and depression.

6. Parabens and phthalates

These substances have been banned in the EU for over 10 years, but they can hide under a variety of names, including the confusing E216 label. They are known for their carcinogenic and hormonal effects. They have also been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

7. P-phenylenediamine

Most often, this substance is found in hair dyes, and it is better to keep the skin from it. Even the most skilled hairdressers can allow dye to come into contact with the scalp when dyeing their hair, and this can lead to troubles such as headaches, coughs, increased pressure and abdominal pain.

8. Propylene glycol and polyethylene glycol

These substances can be found in all hair products, from conditioners to dyes. They are both used to dissolve grease, which is why they can often be found in cleaning products. But they are too dangerous for the hair and can irritate the skin and harm the environment.

9. Sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate

It is best to buy unscented products and add natural essential oils to them.

They are used in virtually all foaming cosmetics and have a wide range of side effects, including eye damage, depression, and diarrhea. These substances easily penetrate the skin and travel through the body with the bloodstream for several days, reaching the brain and lungs.

10. Flavors

More than 4,000 toxic ingredients in hair products may be hiding behind this collective name. Fragrances not only cause skin irritation and digestive problems, but also damage the central nervous system. It is best to buy unscented products and add natural essential oils to them.