Hair Product under Microscope

We use Hair Products and depend on them everyday. But most of the time, we do not know what are the 'magical formula' added that may benefit or harm your hair over long period of time and they assumed that it is thoroughly washed out from your hair and scalp after use. (we all know that it is not possible sometimes and shampoos are commonly known to build up in our hair). In addition, some of the chemicals can also harm the environment as well. Let us open our eyes to see the labels next time we buy our hair products.

Imidazolidinyl urea and Diazolidinyl Urea

These are common preservatives that is antiseptic and deodorizing. On the flip side however, these can also cause skin sensitivity such as rashes and it can get quite severe (American Academy of Dermatology).

Propylene Glycol

It is a petoleum-derived humectant, surfactant, solvent and carrier that can also cause allergenic reactions. This chemical is often added into 'natural' products. The natural alternative to the humectant is vegetable glycerin, an alcohol used as a lubricating base for cosmetics.

Parabens

Methyl, Ethyl, Propyl and Butyl Parabens act as another preservatives that inhibites the growth of microbes. However, this chemicals are also allergenic to skin. There are natural alternatives to reduce the use of parabens, such as vitamins A (retinyl), C and E (tocopherol); essential oils such as sweet orange, peppermint, rosemary or grapefruit seed oil.

Cocamide Diethanolamine (DEA), Methylethanolamine (MEA) or MonoIso-propanolamine (MIPA)

These are often referred to as natural and 'derived from coconuts', but they are actually synthetic surfactants used in soaps and shampoos. In low concentration, it is generally safe but in higher concentration, it can be allergenic and possibly contaminated with nitroasmine (highly carcinogenic). To overcome this, vitamin A and C should be included in the products to act as blocking agents.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

This is a synthetic detergent that is widely used and can cause eye irritations, skin rashes, hair loss and allergenic reactions. This chemical is linked to the formation of nitrosamine. Again, the use of this chemical is approved due to the nature of shampoo use; to apply and wash off completely. It may also be described as coconut derivatives. A gentler alternative is to use alkyl polyglucoside and it is gentler to the hair and the skin; it is made up of sucrose, fatty acids and glucose and it is biodegradable.