Q&A

As a consumer, a good understanding of the ingredients in cosmetics is an asset in choosing the right products. Thus, some consumers decide to ban sulphates and parabens from their hair care without, however, really knowing the harmful effects involved. Let’s take a look at this question.

Sulphates

Other identifiers: sodium lauryl sulphate, SDS, sodium laureth sulphate, SLS, ammonium lauryl sulphate, ALS

This surface active agent or detergent allows shampoos to lather well and clean the hair. Because they are fairly irritating, sulphates can dull coloured hair and even make the scalp sensitive. What’s more, they are not biodegradable and thus also harm the environment.

Parabenes

Other identifiers: methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, ethylparaben

This ingredient is a preservative that prevents the spread of bacteria in your hair and cosmetic products. It’s important to note that parabens do not affect hair health. However, some studies assert that they may have an effect on health.

Solutions?

If you’ve decided to select daily care products that do not contain sulphates and parabens, here are some options:

• Check the list of ingredients to ensure that your shampoo contains sodium lauryl sulfoacetate. The name resembles conventional sulphate but this solution is biodegradable and more gentle.
• Go for more natural products! You’ll see that certain shampoos without sulphate lather less, but fear not! This in no way impedes the product’s cleansing ability.
• Avoid buying cosmetic care products sold by questionable retailers on the Internet. Not all manufacturers are subject to the same regulations. When you buy products from abroad or even handmade, you expose yourself to negative side effects.

The presence of sulphate or paraben in a hair care product in no way means that its use is inevitably dangerous. You just have to understand their necessity and assess your needs!