There is some debate in the natural hair community about certain products being harmful or not beneficial to natural hair. While most natural hair lovers are against some of these products, others love them because their hair seems to thrive with the use of these products.
Silicones
Silicones are compounds obtained from silicon dioxide. They are typically added to cosmetic products to create a lubricating effect and act as a smoothing agent. Silicones used in hair products are not water soluble and tend to stick to hair strands. On the one hand, they can serve as an excellent sealant, but on the other hand, prolonged use can cause buildup and worse consequences if the hair is not subsequently washed with a shampoo containing sulfates. If you want to stay away from sulfate shampoos, silicones like dimethiconone, dimethiconol, cetearylmethiconone should be avoided.
Petrolatum
Petrolatum, also known as grease, is an emollient used in hair care products. However, it is known to be comedogenic and can clog pores when used on the scalp or hair. These clogging properties are suitable for sealing, but should only be used sparingly.
alcohol
When you switch to natural hair, you quickly notice that some of the products you use on your hair make your natural hair appear dry and stiff. For example hairsprays, which contain alcohol and are very drying. So you should try to avoid alcohol in products and especially gels as much as possible.
Parabens
Parabens are chemicals often used in products to prevent the growth of bacteria, but they have also been linked to hormonal imbalances and cancer. That's why it's best to avoid them.
Sulfates
Sulfates are detergents that make shampoo foam, they are also super cleansing. But they go too far with cleansing, stripping the hair and scalp of much-needed sebum and natural oils. The result: the hair dries out. If you're already struggling with dry hair, it's best to avoid them. Since natural hair thrives on moisture, naturalistas prefer to use cleansing conditioners and sulfate-free shampoos. However, if you use a lot of heavy products and silicones, you should treat yourself to sulfate shampoos every now and then to completely cleanse your hair. If you prefer not to, then you should avoid heavy products.
Sulfates are often listed under the names sodium laurel sulfate, ammonium laurel sulfate, SLS, etc.
Fragrance
Yes, you read that correctly. The term "fragrance" is a legally permitted term for products to protect trade secrets, so we do not know what ingredients are used to make the fragrance. Not all companies make fragrances from natural ingredients. In reality, most fragrances are synthetic, made from a combination of chemicals and the addition of phthalates.
Phthalates are plasticizers often used to improve the texture and scent of products. They are illegal in some parts of the world because they are linked to cancer. It is always best to buy products from transparent and health-conscious companies.