Harmful ingredients in your shampoo: What you need to know

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Many popular shampoos contain chemicals that cause more harm than good. Ingredients such as cocamide DEA, fragrances and parabens have been linked to health issues like cancer, hormone disruption and reproductive problems.

The term "fragrance" used on shampoo labels is often a catch-all for up to 3,500 different chemicals, including phthalates. These chemicals can disrupt hormones and cause reproductive issues despite adding a pleasing scent.

Lily aldehyde (Lilial) adds a lily-like scent to shampoos but has been linked to skin irritation, hormone disruption and cancer. Due to health concerns, California and several European countries have banned or have proposed banning this ingredient.

Despite evidence of harm from certain ingredients, federal regulation of personal care products is insufficient. California has taken the lead in banning harmful chemicals and pushing companies to reformulate safer products.

Consumers can opt for lab-verified, natural shampoo alternatives that are free of harmful chemicals. Choosing safer products not only benefits one's health but also contributes to a cleaner environment.

For the average shopper, shampoo is a common product one needs to purchase to maintain proper hygiene. It's also something you use regularly during baths or showers that is supposed to be harmless .

But that's not always the case. In fact, your daily hair care routine might be doing you more harm than good, thanks to the chemicals lurking in some of the most popular shampoos sold on the market.

Here's all you need to know about the dark side of shampoo ingredients, why you should be wary of what kind of shampoo you're using and where to find non-toxic alternatives. (h/t to EW.org)

Cocamide DEA, a potential carcinogen

Cocamide DEA is added to make shampoo lather. It is a modified form of coconut oil. While it might make your hair feel clean, it could also be causing damage.

California has classified cocamide DEA as a potential carcinogen, which means it can cause cancer.

What exactly is "fragrance?"

"Fragrance" is a catch-all term that can hide up to 3,500 different chemicals, some of which are downright dangerous to human health. According to Skin Deep, a database of the Environmental Working Group (EWG), almost every shampoo on the market contains this sneaky blend.

Among these hidden culprits are phthalates like diethyl phthalate (DEP). Phthalates are used to make fragrances last longer and serve as a gelling agent in shampoos. Unfortunately, something that’s supposed to make you smell good could be messing with your body’s natural balance. Studies show that exposure to phthalates can cause hormone disruption and even reproductive issues.

Smells like lilies: Lily aldehyde

Lily aldehyde is also known by the trade name Lilial. This ingredient is added to give shampoos and other products the scent of lilies, but it’s more of a hidden danger than a sweet fragrance.

Research has found that lily aldehyde can cause skin irritation and hormone disruption and can even increase your risk of cancer. In fact, California has already banned this harmful chemical, with the ban set to take effect in 2027.

If that’s not enough to raise an eyebrow, consider this: Lily aldehyde has already been banned in Europe.

Parabens: The hormone-hijackers

Parabens are the preservatives that make your shampoo last for years. While they might be great at extending shelf life, they’re not so great for your body.

Parabens are known endocrine disruptors that can interfere with the normal functioning of your thyroid gland and reproductive system. Parabens have been linked to a range of issues, from reproductive disorders to an increased risk of hormone-related cancers in women.

Given the overwhelming evidence, you may be wondering why these harmful ingredients are still in shampoos. The answer is simple: Federal regulation is lacking.

Fortunately, some states like California are stepping up to the plate.

In 2023, California banned the use of four harmful additives, including propyl paraben, in food products. Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, manufacturers are also banned from "intentionally adding" formaldehyde and certain parabens and phthalates to cosmetics and personal care products sold in the Golden State.

Natural alternatives: A safer choice for you and your family

If you’re ready to ditch these harmful chemicals, look for natural and lab-verified products. Buy products that are free from fragrances, parabens and sulfates.

Many different brands offer a range of natural shampoos and conditioners that can help you maintain clean, healthy hair without negative side effects. (Related: Harmful ingredients in personal care products.)

Look for the EWG verified mark

When shopping for shampoo, look for the EWG Verified mark. This means that the product meets strict standards for safety and is free of harmful chemicals.

It’s a simple way to ensure that what you’re buying is truly good for you and the planet.

Avoid harmful ingredients by using natural alternatives

Transitioning to safer hair care products might seem like a small step, but it’s one with a big impact. By avoiding synthetic chemical ingredients, you’re not only protecting your health, but you’re also contributing to a cleaner, safer environment.

The next time you’re in the shampoo aisle, take a closer look at those ingredient labels. Your hair — and your body — will thank you for it.

Where to buy lab-verified shampoos made with natural ingredients

The Health Ranger Store is committed to offering you clean, lab-verified shampoos that do not contain harmful ingredients like misleading fragrances or parabens. That’s why we’re proud to introduce an assortment of non-toxic options such as Health Ranger's Tea Tree and Lavender Shampoo, Health Ranger's Lemongrass Shampoo and Health Ranger's Unscented Shampoo.

Health Ranger's Tea Tree and Lavender Shampoo is made with the finest organic coconut, olive and sunflower oils and is free of harsh chemicals. It has a luxurious texture and cleansing bubbles that wash away dirt while leaving your hair feeling clean and rejuvenated.

Just the right touch of Lavender and Tea Tree provides a pleasantly refreshing scent. It is also laboratory-verified for safety and purity. Health Ranger's Tea Tree and Lavender Shampoo is 100 percent China-free, non-GMO and non-synthetic.

If you prefer a shampoo with a natural fresh, lemony and earthy scent, try Health Ranger's Lemongrass Shampoo. It is also made with the finest organic coconut, olive and sunflower oils and is free of harsh chemicals.

Just the right touch of lemongrass provides a crisp and invigorating aroma. This shampoo is also laboratory-verified for safety and purity.

Lastly, you can try Health Ranger's Unscented Shampoo if you prefer something with an unscented formula. It is ideal for those who are chemically sensitive or prefer zero fragrance.

Visit Health Ranger Store and Brighteon Store to find more lab-verified products that are free of harmful chemicals. Products.news has more tips on how to avoid personal care products that contain non-toxic ingredients.

Click on this link to learn more about Organic Coconut Oil and why you should have it in your survival stockpile.

Watch the video below about eight toxic chemicals in your soap and shampoo that you should avoid.

This video is from the Health Ranger Store channel on Brighteon.com.