Why We Avoid Sulphates, Parabens, Silicones, and Phthalates in Afro Hair Care
Sis, you’ve probably seen "No sulphates, parabens, silicones, or phthalates" plastered all over product labels, but what does that really mean for your hair? Is it just a marketing buzzword, or does it actually make a difference? Let me break it down for you in a way that makes sense.
What Are Sulphates?
Sulphates are cleansing agents in shampoos that help to break down and remove oils, dirt, and product buildup from your hair and scalp. The most common one you’ll see on labels is Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS), and it's the stuff that makes your shampoo foam up.
Why We Avoid Them
Sis, as great as sulphates are at cleaning, they’re also super harsh, especially for Afro hair. SLS can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. It can even cause skin irritation if you have conditions like eczema. Trust me, we don't need that kind of damage when we're trying to keep our curls healthy!
What We Use Instead
We use much gentler, natural cleansing agents like cocamidopropyl betaine and sodium cocoyl isethionate. These ingredients still clean your hair but are a lot kinder to your curls, helping to keep that moisture locked in. For example, in our shampoo Swish, we use cocamidopropyl betaine to cleanse your hair without stripping it.
What Are Parabens?
Parabens are chemicals used as preservatives in skincare and haircare products. They stop bacteria, mold, and fungi from growing, which is why they’re often found in products like shampoos, conditioners, and lotions. But, you might have noticed, they’re starting to get a bad rap.
Why We Avoid Them
Here’s the thing—parabens can mess with your body’s hormones, especially estrogen, and have been linked to stuff like breast cancer and other health issues. They can also irritate your skin and eyes. Ain't nobody got time for that, especially when you’re trying to protect your beautiful skin and hair!
What We Use Instead
Instead of parabens, we use organic acid preservatives that do the job of preventing mold without the harmful side effects. In our products like Smooth, Swish, and Sheen, we’ve got you covered with clean ingredients that keep things fresh, naturally.
What Are Silicones?
Silicones are ingredients commonly used to make hair look shiny and smooth. They coat the hair, giving it that glossy finish. But there’s a catch—they can build up on the hair over time and make it feel heavy or weighed down. While some silicones are high-quality and allow moisture to penetrate your strands, lower-grade silicones can lead to dryness and product buildup.
Why We Avoid Them
Sis, silicones can make your curls look cute temporarily, but over time they can actually make your Afro hair look dull and lifeless. They can prevent moisture from getting in, and no one wants dry, brittle curls. That’s why we’re all about nourishing ingredients that give your hair true health, not just a shiny facade.
What We Use Instead
Instead of silicones, we opt for nourishing oils like wheatgerm oil and stearic acid. These alternatives help smooth and hydrate your hair without the heavy buildup. Our product Seal contains wheatgerm oil to give you that sleek, smooth feel without the silicone drama.
What Are Phthalates?
Phthalates are chemicals often found in products that have fragrances. They help the scent last longer, but you might not even know they’re in your products since they’re often listed as “fragrance” on the ingredient list. While some phthalates are banned in the EU, others can still be found in products made in the US.
Why We Avoid Them
Phthalates have been linked to some serious health concerns like endocrine disruption (which messes with your hormones) and even cancer. You don’t want any of that in the products you're putting on your hair and skin, especially when you’re trying to nourish your melanin-rich skin and hair.
What We Use Instead
Instead of phthalates, we use essential oils in our products. Not only do they smell amazing, but they also provide benefits for your hair, like strengthening and nourishing your curls. Plus, they’re all natural, so you get that fresh scent without the harmful chemicals.
Bottom Line, Sis:
When it comes to taking care of your Afro hair, the ingredients in your products matter! Steer clear of sulphates, parabens, silicones, and phthalates, because they don’t do your hair any favors. Choose products with natural, nourishing ingredients that help your curls thrive without the extra chemicals. Your hair will thank you, trust me!
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