Sulphates, silicones, synthetic dyes and more, avoid these 5 chemicals to keep your hair healthy

Haircare products: Not all alcohols are bad for your hair, but some, particularly short-chain alcohols like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, can be extremely drying (Image: Canva)

Maintaining healthy hair is more than just about choosing the right shampoo or conditioner. It's about being mindful of the chemicals and ingredients that come into contact with your hair and scalp. Many common hair care products contain substances that can be detrimental to hair health, causing issues such as dryness, breakage, and even hair loss.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the chemicals you should avoid to maintain healthy, luscious hair:

Sulphates

Sulphates are a group of cleaning agents found in many shampoos. While they are effective at removing dirt and oil, they can also strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. This is particularly problematic for those with sensitive skin or curly hair, which can become frizzy and unmanageable when deprived of moisture.

How to avoid: Look for sulphate-free shampoos. Ingredients like sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES) are common indicators. Products labelled as gentle or designed for sensitive skin often contain milder cleansing agents that are kinder to your hair.

Parabens

Parabens are widely used as preservatives in cosmetics and hair care products. They prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, but there are concerns about their potential link to hormonal disruptions. While the research is ongoing, many prefer to err on the side of caution and avoid these chemicals.

How to avoid: Many brands now offer paraben-free options, clearly labelled on the packaging. Products with natural preservatives like vitamin E or rosemary extract can be a safer alternative.

Silicones

Silicones are commonly used in conditioners and styling products to give hair a smooth, shiny appearance. However, they can also create a waterproof coating that builds up over time, preventing moisture from penetrating the hair shaft. This can lead to dryness, dullness, and difficulty in managing your hair.

How to avoid: Ingredients that end in '-cone' or '-siloxane' are silicones. Look for products that are labelled as silicone-free. If you have been using silicone-based products, consider a gentle clarifying shampoo to remove any build-up, but use it sparingly to avoid over-stripping your hair.

Alcohols

Not all alcohols are bad for your hair, but some, particularly short-chain alcohols like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, can be extremely drying. These are often found in styling products like hairsprays and gels, where they act as solvents or drying agents.

How to avoid: Fatty alcohols (such as cetyl, stearyl, and cetearyl alcohol) are actually beneficial, as they help to retain moisture. Avoid products with short-chain alcohols listed high in the ingredients. There are many alcohol-free styling products available that provide hold and texture without the drying effects.

Synthetic fragrances and dyes

Synthetic fragrances and dyes can be hidden sources of irritation and allergic reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin or scalp conditions. They can also exacerbate issues like dandruff or dermatitis.

How to avoid: Many brands offer products that use essential oils or natural extracts for fragrance. Look for hair care products that are free from artificial dyes, which can be listed as 'FD&C' or 'D&C' followed by a colour and number.