Choosing your hair care products is quite important, especially if you don’t know what you should be looking for. If you are new in the advanced hair care world or would like to find products based on ingredients that will benefit your hair, then this guide will come in handy. And knowing that labels can be confusing, this will help you understand them.
What to look for:
- Vitamin C
A potent and protective vitamin for hair, known for its ability to support scalp health and boost hair shine.
- Vitamin E
One of the best vitamins for hair growth, its antioxidant properties can also promote a healthy scalp.
- Argan Oil
A favorite shampoo and conditioner ingredient, used to moisturize and fortify the scalp and strands.
- Hyaluronic Acid
Deeply moisturizing, can assist in improving volume.
- Salicylic Acid
Dissolves dead cells and regulates cell renewal to improve scalp and hair prone to dandruff.
- Latic Acid
An exfoliator for the scalp, which works by breaking down dead skin cells and removing product build-up.
- B Vitamins
Hair care vitamin complex which supports hair growth for every hair type and texture.
What to be careful with:
- Sodium laureth sulfate or SLS (sulfates).
This substance can cause skin and eye irritation, especially in those with sensitive skin. Even for those who tolerate SLS in their products, sulfates can be harsh on your hair, stripping strands of their natural oils and often leading to drier, frizzier and more fragile hair over time.
- Parabens.
Used as preservatives to extend shelf life. While generally considered safe in small amounts, some people prefer to avoid them due to ongoing debates around long-term exposure.
- Certain Alcohols
Some alcohols can be drying, especially if they appear high in the ingredient list. However, not all alcohols are bad—some actually help condition the hair.
- Added Fragrances
Fragrance is often added to improve the scent of products. However, it can sometimes irritate sensitive scalps, so it’s best to choose fragrance-free options if you notice irritation.
- Benzene
Benzene is a petrochemical solvent used in hair dyes. It’s known to be toxic in high doses and potentially carcinogenic over long periods of time. Look for ingredients labeled toluene, methylbenzene, phenylmethane and toluol.
How to Choose the Right Ingredients
- Dry hair → look for oils + humectants
- Fine hair → avoid heavy oils
- Oily scalp → lightweight or clarifying ingredients
- Damaged hair → proteins + conditioning ingredients
These ingredients are used on many shampoos, so it is recommended that you first read the label behind the bottle. Always try to sort out the beneficial and harmful ingredients. If you don’t have time or don’t remember, then do a quick search before you go to buy your shampoo or by taking a photo of the label. Remember that it’s better to prevent then to fight.