Sustainable haircare: what 5 ingredients to look for and 5 ingredients to avoid

Sustainable haircare: what 5 ingredients to look for and 5 ingredients to avoid

Is Today Going to Be a Good Hair Day?

Have you ever woken up thinking today would be a good hair day, then looked in the mirror and found split ends and dry strands? You are not alone. Many people experience dry, brittle hair because of their haircare choices.

Studies report that 47% of females and 30% of males experience dry hair. This suggests women are more prone to dry and damaged hair, which can be caused by the products they use, especially shampoos. Many shampoos can strip hair of shine and nutrients and can contribute to hair loss. That is why it is important to research ingredients in your haircare products and know what to avoid.

So what should you not use?

Below are five ingredient groups to avoid and why they can be harmful.

  • Sulfates

    • Can cause scalp irritation and sensitive skin
    • Can thin hair and cause damage
  • Parabens

    • Can cause dandruff
    • Weaken hair roots
    • May affect estrogen levels in males and females
  • Synthetic fragrances

    • Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions
    • Have been linked to birth defects in some studies
    • Can cause respiratory related issues
  • Silicones

    • Can block nutrients from reaching the hair follicle
    • Can cause breakage and build up in the hair
  • Formaldehyde

    • Has been linked to cancer
    • Can cause toxicity or asthma

Tips to avoid hair loss

  • Avoid washing your hair every day unless necessary
  • Focus on cleaning your scalp when washing your hair
  • Choose products specific for your hair type
  • Protect your hair from heat, sun, and environmental damage
  • Avoid damaging actions like frequent coloring, blow drying, and curling

Ingredients and products that help strengthen hair

Look for products that include the following natural ingredients.

  • Tea Tree

    • Prevents buildup of chemicals and dead skin
    • Reduces scaliness caused by dandruff
  • Aloe Vera

    • Calms an itchy scalp
    • Strengthens and repairs hair strands
    • Deep cleans oily hair
  • Lavender Oil

    • Stimulates hair growth
    • Clears bacteria
  • Rosemary

    • Improves hair shine
    • Promotes hair thickness
  • Shea Butter

    • Reduces breakage and enhances elasticity
    • Soothes scalp irritation
    • Has many nourishing properties that promote softness

Shop for healthier hair

Love.com knows that haircare is crucial to many people. We carry a wide range of products that cater to different hair types and habits. Our offerings focus on natural ingredients, sustainability, and environmental responsibility. These factors help ensure your hair stays healthy, strong, and beautiful.

Featured items:

  • Tea Tree Shampoo
  • Oatmeal and Aloe Shampoo
  • Organic Shampoo Bar

Shop these and more on Love.com.


Works Cited

  1. “4 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Use Parabens in Shampoo.” RKT Hair Care. 13 July 2023.
  2. “Aloe Vera for Hair: Benefits for Hair Growth.” Healthline.
  3. “Are Silicones THAT Bad for My Hair?” Healthline. 25 Aug. 2020.
  4. Cess, Kelly. “Why You Should Avoid Synthetic Fragrance.” EO Products, 2015.
  5. Flament, Frederic, et al. “Types and Characteristics of Hair across the Globe.” Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, Feb. 2025.
  6. Genesis Career College. “8 Ingredients to Avoid in Your Shampoo and Conditioner.” 28 Dec. 2020.
  7. “Healthy Hair Habits from a to Z | Divi Hair Care.” Divi Official Inc., 27 Sept. 2023.
  8. Purdie, Jennifer. “What to Know about Using Tea Tree Oil on Your Hair.” Healthline. 5 Apr. 2017.
  9. Robinson, Maria. “6 Shampoos That May Cause Hair Loss.” GoodRx. 28 June 2021.

Content provided for informational purposes only. Individual results and sensitivities vary. If you have concerns about scalp or hair health, consult a qualified professional.

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