Not all shampoos are created equal | Article

The topic of shampoos, solid or liquid, natural or synthetic, is an inexhaustible well of information and we have only slightly tapped into it.

How to correctly read the back side of a purchased shampoo?

There is currently a big boom of solid shampoo on the market, which is presented with superlatives such as zero waste, healthy, natural. However, this does not yet mean that every solid shampoo is OK and that every liquid shampoo is bad.

So pay close attention especially when, if on the list of ingredients from which the shampoo (liquid or solid) consists, you find the following:

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)

This is a detergent and foaming surfactant that is used to a significant extent in commercial shampoos. Research, however, confirms that SLS irritates the skin and hypersensitive skin types even show an inflammatory reaction. A paradoxical piece of information is that SLS is also used as an irritant when testing products intended for the treatment of the skin.

Propylene Glycol (PG)

It is a humectant and solvent that, in addition to cosmetic products, is used in antifreeze mixture for aircraft. In general it is classified as a safe substance, but many cases of toxicity have occurred in humans, including even an effect on the nervous system or cardiac arrhythmia.

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)

Another substance, often listed on labels only under the abbreviation PEG, is a petroleum-based chemical that is used in shampoos to create a smooth creamy texture. In many cases it has caused allergic reactions and contact dermatitis.

Dimentikon (PDMS)

A substance also known as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). When used in shampoos, it creates a lubricating film around each strand of hair, gives it shine and makes combing easier. It is known to cause skin dermatitis, but even more concerning are reports that it may have harmful effects on the hormonal system.

Fragrance and phthalates

Unfortunately, even something as innocent as the fragrance added to cosmetic products may not be pleasant for the body. There are shampoos whose fragrance originates from plant extracts and essential oils. But very often these products contain phthalates, which act as fragrance fixatives. The European Union did in fact ban some phthalates in 2005, but not all, while they cause irritation, itching, rashes and even allergy.

Not all shampoos are created equal - types of shampoos

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