5 chemicals you need to make sure your shampoo DOESN'T have

When you shampoo your hair, you mainly worry about whether it lathers, cleans well, smells fresh and leaves hair feeling nice. But what's also important is to know if your shampoo has stuff that will harm your hair, or worse still, health. Here's a list you should AVOID!

Parabens
These are used as preservatives - that is, to keep products good for longer. The issue is, scientists are increasingly convinced that parabens are toxic to your reproductive system, and can also interfere with hormones. Scary. Avoid. 

Phthalates
You will rarely find them listed on any ingredient list. That's because they are usually part of what's put as "Fragrance". Phthalates are proven reproductive toxins, and shouldn't be anywhere near our skin. At Phy, our fragrances are always free of phthalates. Check if the fragrance that you are using in your products, is.

Sulphates
OK this one's not as black and white as the other two. Sodium Lauryl Sulphate is widely used as a surfactant (cleansing agent), and overdries skin. But some other sulphates (such as Sodium Laureth Sulphate) aren't really harmful. To be sure, it's best to go sulphate-free altogether.
Silicones
Although silicones don't cause chemical harm, they aren't great for your hair. Because they build up on hair over time, and eventually cause weakening of hair strands. Look for things like "dimethicone", "cyclopentasiloxanes" etc on your ingredient list, and avoid them. 
ZPT or ZPTO
Zinc Pyrithione is a proven anti-dandruff active. However, it's also a known skin irritant. Check if the anti-dandruff active in your shampoo is zinc-free.

Got more tips to share or questions to ask? Give us a shout and we'll be happy to help. Until then, take care and keep on livin' #thePHYlife!


At phy, we believe in the need to simpli-phy. All your skincare, bodycare, haircare, beardcare questions answered. One question at a time. Want us to write about something? Let us know at hi@thephylife.com and we'll do our best to fit it in. 

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