Common Shampoo Ingredients May Actually Be Damaging Your Hair

If you notice more hair in your brush than usual, your shampoo might be to blame. Two common ingredients, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Chloride, are often found in mass-market shampoos.

SLS is a detergent and surfactant known for its strong cleansing properties, which help remove dirt and oil from the hair and scalp. However, these benefits come with significant downsides.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

This ingredient creates a rich lather but can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and increased hair breakage.

Studies have shown that SLS can damage the hair shaft and cuticles, resulting in hair breakage.^(ref)

Sodium Chloride

Often used as a thickening agent, sodium chloride can also dry out the hair and scalp. This can lead to irritation and further contribute to hair loss, especially for those with sensitive skin or existing scalp conditions.

What to Look For: Biotin & Saw Palmetto

Switching to shampoos containing biotin and saw palmetto can significantly benefit those struggling with hair loss. These ingredients work to nourish and strengthen the hair, promoting healthier growth.

Biotin

Also known as vitamin B7, biotin is crucial for maintaining healthy hair. It helps improve the keratin infrastructure, a basic protein that makes up hair, skin, and nails.

Biotin deficiency can lead to hair thinning and loss, so incorporating biotin-rich shampoos can help reverse these effects and support hair growth​.^(ref)

Saw Palmetto

This natural extract has been shown to block the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss.

By reducing DHT levels, saw palmetto can help prevent hair thinning and shedding, making it a valuable ingredient in shampoos designed for hair loss prevention​.^(ref)

Embracing Sulfate-Free Alternatives

Given the potential harms of SLS, many people are turning to sulfate-free shampoos. These products use milder cleansing agents that are less likely to strip the hair of natural oils, reducing the risk of dryness and irritation.

Sulfate-Free Shampoos

These shampoos often contain alternative ingredients that provide gentle cleansing without the harsh effects of sulfates. They help maintain the hair’s natural moisture balance, making them ideal for people with sensitive scalps or color-treated hair​​.

Popular sulfate-free alternatives include shampoos based on natural ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil, which offer a more nourishing and less irritating cleanse.

By being mindful of these ingredients and opting for products that support hair health, you can make more informed choices about your hair care routine. This proactive approach can help you achieve healthier, fuller hair and reduce the risk of hair loss.