Let's talk about Hair Care....

Oh, our hair, sigh, we bleach it, color it, curl it, straighten it, brush it, and basically abuse it—and in the process, we often expose it to products with harmful ingredients. Some of these products claim to be all-natural, while others contain harsh chemicals that can cause damage over time.

I used to use Tresemme Extra Hold hair spray, Dove Mouse, Head and Shoulders, L'Oréal's shampoo, so many different products and all hard harmful ingredients. Let's just talk about a few ingredients in Tresemme Hair Spray and what they can do to you.

Dimethyl ether (DME) can be toxic if inhaled, ingested, or in contact with the skin. It can cause irritation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract, and damage to the central nervous system. High exposure can lead to headache, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. Skin contact can cause severe frostbite. DME is also used as a methylating agent, fuel, refrigerant, and solvent in industrial application

Ammonium benzoate is a white crystalline powder used as a preservative and in medicines1. It can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs, causing coughing and chest tightness1. Ammonul, a medication that works by causing less ammonia to be produced by the body, may cause nausea and vomiting

 This is just two of the 17 chemical ingredients in the hair spray. Yikes!!

Let's just think about that..

I have found a good hairspray from Four Seasons, Super Strong Hair Spray. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS NOT ALL NATURAL OR ORGANIC. It does have synthetic and man-made components, but they are not as bad as the common brands you will find on all the store shelves. It is fragrance free, although they do have some with scents.

Since I have made this change, I can't stand anything to smelly. It is on the costly side coming in at $28, but I really like it and think it works better Tresemme.

-Click here to see it on Amazon #ad  https://amzn.to/45J6njQ

There is also Innersense Hairspray coming in at $28 too.

-Click here to view it on Amazon #ad https://amzn.to/4m0Tpmf

Shampoos... I have used so many over the years. Constantly changing trying to find the prefect one. So much money down the drain. Ha! Down the drain. When I did my cleanse of toxic products, I probably had 8 different shampoos and conditioners that I gave away.

I have tried 3 natural and organic ones. The one I have come to like and use every day is

Avalon Organics Rosemary Shampoo and Conditioner coming in at $23.69 for both. -

Click here to see it on Amazon

#ad https://amzn.to/4lHcpXk

There is also another top-rated brand called

Acure Organics – Curiously Clarifying Shampoo & Conditioner coming in at $18.99 for both. - Click here to view it on Amazon https://amzn.to/4nXWGET I do want to try this on next.

Then there is styling. I used to use Dove Mousse and Short Sexy Hair Pomade. I have not found a mousse. But I did find John Masters Organics Hair Pomade. I have some on the way. Coming in at $24 -which is about the same cost for the Short Sexy Hair Pomade.

-Click here to check it out on Amazon. #ad https://amzn.to/46P0Cl6

Then there is hair dye. Oh, my I have died my hair soooo many times. I have switched to Naturtint. Coming in at $14.99 and they have many different shades. It is not 100% natural but is a good option if you are looking for a more natural option than many traditional hair dyes. A small change is a big change.

-Click here to check it out on Amazon. #ad https://amzn.to/4lxEe4c

There is also Madison Reed. I have not tried this one yet. But I do have a friend at work that uses it and seems to really like it. Madison Reed’s ingredients are a blend of natural oils, antioxidants, and proteins designed to provide a more hair-friendly coloring experience. The brand offers a gentle, effective alternative to traditional hair dye, with nourishing ingredients that protect the hair and scalp while delivering vibrant, lasting color. While it's an excellent choice for those with sensitivities or looking for a cleaner option, always perform a patch test to ensure compatibility.t. It is on the costly side coming in at $32 a box, but worth the money if you don't want to harmful chemicals. #ad https://amzn.to/3Gy3F6I This is on my list to try

-Click here to check it out on Amazon

1. Many conventional hair care products contain harmful ingredients that can damage your hair, scalp, and overall health. Understanding these toxic chemicals and switching to safer alternatives is key to maintaining healthy hair and protecting your well-being. Here are some common toxins found in hair care products:

   1. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) – A harsh detergent that strips hair of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Safer Alternative: Choose shampoos with Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids or Cocamidopropyl Betaine, which are gentle surfactants derived from coconut oil.

   2. Parabens – Preservatives that disrupt hormones and have been linked to reproductive issues.Safer Alternative: Look for products labeled paraben-free or with natural preservatives like vitamin E or grapeseed extract.

   3. Phthalates – Chemicals used in fragrances, which are known to disrupt the endocrine system.Safer Alternative: Opt for fragrance-free products or those using natural essential oils.

   4. Formaldehyde – A carcinogen found in some hair straightening treatments.Safer Alternative: Choose formaldehyde-free options, like Madison Reed or Naturtint, which use safer, plant-based ingredients.

   5. Silicones – Synthetic compounds that can build up on hair, leading to dryness and dullness over time.Safer Alternative: Select silicone-free products like Innersense Organic Beauty or John Masters Organics for healthy, lightweight hair.

   By making the switch to non-toxic, natural hair care products, you can enjoy vibrant, healthy hair without exposing yourself to harmful chemicals. Brands like Madison Reed, Naturtint, and Innersense Organic Beauty offer great alternatives that are both effective and gentle on the hair and scalp.

   Take care of your hair with products that nourish, protect, and preserve its natural beauty!

   Stay smart, be safe and keep learning.

   Please comment, like and share. I want to hear from you.

   
   

   Below is a list for reference

   Common Toxins in Hair Care Products and Why They are Harmful:

   1. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) / Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

      • What it is: A surfactant that helps products foam and cleanse.

      • Why it's harmful: Can irritate the scalp, eyes, and skin; potentially toxic when absorbed in large amounts.

   2. Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben)

      • What they are: Preservatives used to prevent bacterial growth.

      • Why they're harmful: Known to disrupt hormone function and may contribute to infertility or other health issues.

   3. Phthalates (often listed as “fragrance”)

      • What they are: A group of chemicals used to make fragrances last longer.

      • Why they're harmful: Endocrine disruptors that can lead to reproductive and developmental issues.

   4. Formaldehyde

      • What it is: A chemical used in hair straightening treatments and some shampoos.

      • Why it's harmful: A carcinogen linked to cancer and respiratory issues.

   5. Silicones (Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Amodimethicone)

      • What they are: Synthetic polymers used for smoothness and shine.

      • Why they're harmful: Can build up on hair, leaving it weighed down and prone to damage.

   6. Synthetic Fragrances

      • What they are: Artificial compounds used to scent hair products.

      • Why they're harmful: Can cause allergic reactions, irritations, and hormone disruption.

   7. Toluene

      • What it is: A solvent used in some hair dyes.

      • Why it's harmful: A neurotoxin linked to headaches, dizziness, and long-term health issues.