Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is everywhere. It can be found in moisturising cream, bathing products and in shampoo. SLS is a known skin irritant that can cause an unpleasant 'burning' feeling on the skin for many, especially those of us who are prone to acne or sensitive skin. Still, most companies use SLS because it's a cheap ingredient that creates a good 'lather' effect. Don't want to compromise beautiful and healthy hair with an irritated scalp? Let's take a look at the alternatives to SLS shampoo.
Going all natural
Many SLS-free shampoo also happen to use natural ingredients for their products. There are so many benefits to going natural. For some of us going natural with our health and beauty products gives us confidence that the product will be of high quality and won't leave any nasty effects on the skin. It also means that the product will be free of parabens which are said to also be harmful to the skin. Using natural ingredients also means more genuine and pleasant aromas will flow out of the shampoo. Aromatherapists believe that these aromas can help us to relax, de-stress and feel happier.
But going natural isn't all about strawberries and starflowers. Natural spa companies need a tremendous understanding of how ingredients interact with each other to create the desired effects. While any company can easily source information about SLS and other cheap chemicals, natural companies need a true understanding of chemistry and human biology to find effective alternatives. This would suggest that in order for natural companies to be successful, they have to know their field well.
Now we know the benefits of going natural, what's the next step? Let's take a look at essential shampoo ingredients natural companies use.
Ingredients that contain vitamin E
Vitamin E has many uses, but as a component to shampoo it can help moisturise the scalp and leave a beautiful healthy glow to the hair. Consider shampoo that contains sunflower oil and almonds for high vitamin E content.
Ingredients with anti-septic properties
At the end of a wash, you want your hair to be healthy and germ free. It is not a good shampoo if it doesn't contain anti-septic properties. Ingredients such as lavender prevents bacteria infections and kills germs. Lavender also happens to provide a calming effect through its aroma, which means you get at least two benefits from a single ingredient. Find more about this wonder ingredient.
Anti-inflammatory ingredients
Want to avoid the dandruff plague? Ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties such as aloe vera can help prevent irritation on the scalp which can lead to less dandruff.
High in allantoin
Allantoin is a friendly natural ingredient that keeps hair healthy. It can heal the scalp and promote cell growth. It can be found in oils such as comfrey oil, and is a relatively little known secret to a good shampoo.
Hydrolyzed wheat
Not many of us may have heard of hydrolyzed wheat, and that's okay, it's another secret shampoo ingredient for healthy hair. Hydrolyzed wheat contains amino acids and glutamine, both moisturise the hair and help the hair become refreshingly soft.
Benzoic acid and benzyl benzoate
Do you find that your hair becomes oily quickly? Benzoic acid and benzyl benzoate are friendly acids that are recommended by experts for oily skin and for oily hair. Shampoos that contain these naturally occurring acids could make a big difference for you.
Where can I buy SLS free and natural shampoo?
There are a variety of natural companies who may have products that contain these wonderful ingredients. For assured quality, why not take a look at what Natural Spa Factory has to offer with their shampoo range?
A Bit About Natural Spa Factory…
Natural Spa Factory is an independently owned and operated product house based in Bath, creating natural, Free From, botanical and sustainable products, inspired by the rural surroundings and food loved by the founders. Freedom and offering a unique experience is encouraged amongst partner spas. All of the products are free from Parabens, Methylisothiozolinone (MI), Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI), SLS, microbeads and palm oils.
