11 Best Non-Toxic Shampoo & Conditioner For Healthy Hair

Are you using toxic shampoo & conditioner without knowing it?

This may be the first time you’re learning that the shampoo & conditioner you use every day could be harming your health, your hair, and your scalp.

It’s alarming, but most of the conventional hair care products you find in the drugstore or even from high-end luxury retailers contain loads of unnecessary toxic chemicals that can cause serious damage.

So, how can you tell if your shampoo or conditioner is toxic? Here are a few red flags to watch out for that might tip you off:

• Excessive Lathering: If your shampoo creates a mountain of suds, it’s likely packed with harsh sulfates that can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle.
• Strong Synthetic Fragrances: That intoxicating scent in your shampoo might be a sign of trouble. Synthetic fragrances can irritate your scalp and even cause allergic reactions.
• Scalp Dryness, Itchiness, or Irritation: If your scalp feels like the Sahara Desert or itches like crazy after washing your hair, your shampoo or conditioner might be to blame. Toxic ingredients can disrupt your scalp’s delicate balance, leading to dryness and irritation.
• Hair Loss or Breakage: Are you noticing more hair in your brush than usual? Toxic chemicals in your hair care products can weaken your strands, causing them to break off or fall out.

If you suspect that you are using a toxic shampoo & conditioner, the next step is to take a look at the ingredient list. Get your magnifying glass ready, because we’re about to tell you the most toxic ingredients to look for. 

What toxic ingredients are hiding in your shampoo & conditioner?

Sulfates (Cleansing Agent): Strips natural oils, leading to dryness, frizz, and damage. Health issues include eye irritation, skin irritation, and respiratory issues.

• Look for ingredients ending in “sulfate,” such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).

Parabens (Preservative): Disrupts hormones, linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues. Health issues include endocrine disruption and allergic reactions.

• Look for ingredients ending in “paraben,” such as methylparaben, butylparaben, or Propylparaben.

Phthalates (Plasticizer): Can build up on the scalp, leading to dryness and irritation. Health issues include reproductive issues and birth defects.

• Look for ingredients containing “phthalate,” such as diethyl phthalate or dibutyl phthalate.

Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives (Preservative): Irritates eyes, nose, and throat. Health issues include cancer, respiratory issues, and allergic reactions.

• Look for ingredients like formaldehyde, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, DMDM hydantoin, or quaternium-15.

Dyes (Colorant): Can cause allergic reactions, and skin irritation. Health issues include allergic reactions and skin sensitivity.

• Look for ingredients starting with “CI” followed by a number, such as CI 77891.

Synthetic Fragrances (Fragrance): Can irritate the scalp, leading to dryness and itching. Health issues include respiratory issues, headaches, and allergic reactions.

• Look for the word “fragrance” or “parfum” on the ingredient list.

Silicone (Coating Agent): Can build up on the hair, weighing it down and preventing moisture absorption. No direct health risks, but can contribute to environmental pollution.

• Look for ingredients ending in “cone,” such as dimethicone, cyclomethicone, or amodimethicone.

Dimethicone (Silicone Derivative): Can build up on the hair, weighing it down and preventing moisture absorption. No direct health risks, but can contribute to environmental pollution.

• Look for ingredients ending in “cone,” such as dimethicone, cyclomethicone, or amodimethicone.

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) (Humectant): This can be irritating to the scalp and cause dryness. Health issues include being contaminated with harmful chemicals.

• Look for ingredients starting with “PEG” followed by a number, such as PEG-40 or PEG-8.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine (Foaming Agent): Can irritate the scalp and cause dryness. Health issues include allergic reactions and skin irritation.

• Look for the ingredient “cocamidopropyl betaine.”

Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Derivative): Can accumulate in the body and cause toxicity. Health issues include cancer and birth defects.

• Look for the ingredient “retinyl palmitate.”

Lily Aldehyde (Fragrance Ingredient): Can irritate the scalp and cause allergic reactions. Health issues include respiratory issues, headaches, and allergic reactions.

• Look for the ingredient “lily aldehyde.”

What makes non-toxic shampoo & conditioner different?

Unlike conventional hair care products that are loaded with these harsh chemicals, non-toxic alternatives are made with natural, organic ingredients that are gentle on your hair and scalp. 

Non-toxic shampoo & conditioner brands are typically sulfate-free, paraben-free, vegan, and cruelty-free, meaning they’re not only good for you but also for the planet.

By ditching the toxic chemicals and opting for nourishing, plant-based ingredients, non-toxic shampoos and conditioners can help improve your hair health by reducing dryness, frizz, and breakage. 

Plus, by choosing products free from potentially harmful substances, you’re taking a step towards better overall health and well-being.

What beneficial natural ingredients should I look for in a non-toxic shampoo & conditioner instead?

Cleansing & Moisturizing Ingredients like coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, aloe vera, shea butter, and argan oil. Gently cleanse hair without stripping natural oils, providing hydration and nourishment.

Natural Fragrances Alternatives like essential oils like lavender, tea tree, rosemary, peppermint, and ylang-ylang. Offer pleasant scents without harsh chemicals.

Soothing & Calming Ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, calendula, lavender, chamomile, and calendula. Reduce scalp irritation, soothe dryness, and promote a healthy scalp environment.

Antioxidant & Protective like vitamin E, green tea, rosemary, turmeric, and ashwagandha. Protect hair from damage caused by environmental factors and free radicals, promoting healthy hair growth and shine.

Humectants like glycerin, honey, marshmallow root, and hyaluronic acid. Attract and retain moisture, preventing dryness and frizz.

Strengthening & Moisturizing like keratin, panthenol (Vitamin B5), nettle extract, quinoa protein, and amla. Repair damaged hair, improve elasticity, and promote healthy hair growth.

Are non-toxic shampoos as effective as conventional ones?

Non-toxic shampoos and conditioners can actually be better for your hair and scalp health. While they may not lather as much as conventional products, they often use gentler ingredients that can:

• Reduce Irritation: Avoid harsh chemicals that can cause dryness, itchiness, and scalp imbalances.
• Promote Hair Growth: Support a healthy scalp environment, which is essential for optimal hair growth.
• Enhance Hair Quality: Improve shine, softness, and overall health.
• Protect Color-Treated Hair: Prevent fading and damage caused by harsh chemicals.

It’s important to note:

• Not all “natural” ingredients are inherently good. Some can be irritating or drying, depending on your hair.
• It might take some trial and error to find the right non-toxic shampoo & conditioner for your hair.

If you’re considering switching to non-toxic products, it’s worth giving them a try. You may be surprised by how much better your hair and scalp feel.

Can non-toxic shampoos effectively clean my hair?

Yes, non-toxic shampoos can effectively clean your hair. While they may not lather as much as conventional products, they can still remove dirt, oil, and product buildup.

Here’s how non-toxic shampoos work:

• Gentle Surfactants: These ingredients cleanse your hair without stripping away natural oils.
• Natural Cleansers: Many non-toxic shampoos use plant-based ingredients like coconut oil, aloe vera, and clay to gently cleanse.
• PH-Balanced: These shampoos are formulated to match the pH of your scalp, helping to maintain a healthy balance.

If you have concerns about how well a non-toxic shampoo is cleaning your hair, consider:

• Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove buildup.
• Adjust your application technique to ensure you’re massaging the shampoo into your scalp thoroughly and rinsing the product out completely. 
• Consulting with a hairstylist for personalized advice.

How often should I use non-toxic shampoo & conditioner?

The frequency of using non-toxic shampoo and conditioner depends on your hair type and individual needs.

• Oily Hair: You may need to wash your hair more frequently, perhaps every other day or even daily.
• Dry Hair: Washing your hair less often can help retain moisture. A good rule of thumb is every 2-3 days.
• Normal Hair: Washing every 2-3 days is usually sufficient.

Here are some additional factors to consider:

• If you use a lot of styling products, you may need to wash your hair more often to remove buildup.
• If you have dandruff or other scalp issues, your doctor may recommend a specific washing schedule.
• Ultimately, the best frequency for you will depend on how your hair feels and looks.
• Overwashing can strip your hair of natural oils and lead to dryness. It’s important to find a balance that works for you.

Can natural shampoos help with dandruff or other scalp issues?

Yes, natural shampoos can often be effective in addressing dandruff and other scalp issues. 

While they may not have the same immediate results as some medicated shampoos, many natural ingredients have soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties that can help alleviate scalp problems.   

• Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antifungal properties, tea tree oil can help reduce dandruff and soothe an itchy scalp.   
• Apple Cider Vinegar: The acidity of apple cider vinegar can help balance the scalp’s pH and reduce dandruff flakes.   
• Aloe Vera: This natural moisturizer can help soothe a dry, irritated scalp.   
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil can help nourish the scalp and reduce dryness.   
• Salicylic Acid: While not strictly natural, salicylic acid is a common ingredient in over-the-counter dandruff shampoos. It helps exfoliate the scalp and remove excess skin cells.   

Are all-natural ingredients always safe?

Not all natural ingredients are always safe. While many natural substances are generally considered harmless, some can be irritating or even harmful when used improperly or by individuals with certain sensitivities.

Here are a few examples:

• Essential Oils: While they can be beneficial for many purposes, essential oils can be irritating to the skin when applied undiluted. They should always be used in a carrier oil or diluted in a product.
• Nuts: Some people have severe nut allergies and must avoid all nut-based products.
• Honey: While generally safe, raw honey can contain bacteria that can be harmful to infants.
• Aloe Vera: While often used for its soothing properties, aloe vera can cause allergic reactions in some people.

Always patch-test any new product, even if it contains natural ingredients.