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Taking care of your hair–keeping it healthy and looking its best–requires you being extra careful about the hair products you use. Unfortunately, many popular shampoo brands contain harmful ingredients that can lead to a myriad of problems, especially if you have a sensitive scalp.
From irritation to hair loss, these side effects can be detrimental to the health of your hair and lead to real discomfort if you are not careful.
With that in mind, keep reading for the harmful shampoo ingredients you should avoid according to dermatologists.
Sulfates
Sulfates are often found in shampoos because they can help clean the dirt and oils from your hair and scalp. Unfortunately, these sulfates are often too harsh.
According to Erum Ilyas, Philadelphia-area dermatologist at Montgomery Dermatology, "Ingredients in shampoos that can lead to a higher risk of hair breakage and possible loss are ones that strip the hair of its natural oils, surfactants in particular. The one most hear about tends to be sodium laureth sulfate."
Parabens
You should also start avoiding shampoos with parabens. Specifically, look out for methylparaben and propylparaben. Dr. Robert Dorin, Medical Director of True and Dorin Medical Group, explained why to StyleCaster.
According to Dorin, "Parabens not only irritate the skin – which can make your scalp unhealthy–they can also affect your hormonal balance, which can result in hair loss."
Sodium Chloride
Sodium chloride is also found in shampoos, usually used to thicken the product. Unfortunately, the addition of salt in your shampoo can lead to problems for your scalp.
Nutrafol's blog explains, "Salt can make an already-sensitive scalp dry and itchy, which can eventually cause hair loss."
Avoiding these potentially harmful shampoo ingredients is one way to take care of your scalp and hair, avoid irritation and discomfort, and keep hair loss at bay.
With that in mind, check your shampoo ASAP for these ingredients and make any necessary adjustments in your haircare routine.
