Is Organic Hair Care Good For You?
Organic Hair Care: A Guide To Why It Is Good For You
When it comes to taking care of our hair, most of us rely on commercial shampoos and conditioners. However, it's essential to understand the ingredients that go into these products and how they can affect our hair and scalp.
The hair care industry is vast and diverse, but not all products are created equal. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to understanding the benefits of using organic hair care products and the dangers of their chemical alternatives.
Introduction to Organic Hair Care
Organic hair care refers to products that are made with natural and plant-based ingredients, free from synthetic chemicals and preservatives. The main aim of organic hair care is to provide gentle and nourishing care for the hair, without causing any damage or irritation.
Unlike commercial products that contain a long list of chemicals, organic hair care products like those from The Good Zest Company, are simple and straightforward, making them a safe choice for those with sensitive scalps or those looking for a more natural approach to hair care.
Why Organic Hair Care Products Are Better For You
Firstly, we will consider the main benefits of organic hair care products.. From nourishing the hair and scalp to promoting hair growth, here are just a few of the many benefits of using organic hair care products:
- Nourishment: Organic hair care products are rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy hair growth. They contain ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil and shea butter, which work together to nourish the hair and scalp, providing the hair with the necessary nutrients to grow strong and healthy.
- Gentle Care: Organic hair care products are gentle and non-irritating, making them ideal for those with sensitive scalps or those with damaged hair. The lack of harsh chemicals and preservatives means that organic hair care products are less likely to cause irritation, dryness, or breakage.
- Promotes Hair Growth: Organic hair care products are designed to promote hair growth by nourishing the hair follicles and improving the overall health of the scalp. Ingredients such as rosemary, lavender, and tea tree oil have been proven to stimulate hair growth and reduce hair loss.
- Environmental Impact: Organic hair care products are made with natural ingredients that are biodegradable, reducing the impact on the environment. Commercial products contain synthetic ingredients that are harmful to the environment, so switching to organic hair care products is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
The Harmful Effects of Synthetic Shampoo Ingredients
So now we know the advantages of organic hair care products, let's explore the dangers of their chemically infused alternatives.
Commercial shampoos and conditioners are often made with a long list of synthetic ingredients, many of which have been linked to health and environmental problems. Here are some of the most commonly used synthetic ingredients found in shampoos and the harmful effects they can have:
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): SLS is a surfactant that is used to create lather in shampoos and other personal care products. However, it can cause skin and eye irritation, dryness, and hair breakage.
- Propylene Glycol: Propylene glycol is a petroleum-based ingredient that is used as a moisturising agent in shampoos and other personal care products. It has been linked to skin irritation, itching, and allergic reactions.
- Parabens: Parabens are a type of preservative that are used to extend the shelf life of shampoos and other personal care products. They have been linked to a range of health problems, including hormonal imbalances and an increased risk of breast cancer.
- Artificial Fragrances: Artificial fragrances are used to add a pleasant scent to shampoos and other personal care products. However,they can cause skin irritation, headaches, and allergic reactions. Additionally, many artificial fragrances contain phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors and can interfere with hormone levels.
- Silicones: Silicones are used in shampoos and conditioners to add shine and improve texture. While they may provide temporary benefits, they have water repellent properties, making them difficult to remove and they can build up on the hair, preventing the hair strands absorbing nutrients and vitamins to remain healthy and nourished
Here is a list of compounds to check for and avoid:
- Decyl or Lauryl Glucoside
- Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
- Sodium Lauroamphoacetate
- Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
- Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate
- Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
- Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Making the Switch to Natural and Organic Hair Care Products
With the harmful effects of synthetic ingredients in traditional shampoos and conditioners, it's no wonder that many people are turning to natural and organic alternatives. While these products may be a bit more expensive, the long-term benefits for the hair and scalp are worth the investment.
One such alternative is using citrus essential oil based shampoos and conditioners, which are known for their effectiveness and the numerous benefits they offer. By switching to these natural and organic hair care products, you can help to improve the overall health of your hair and scalp, without exposing yourself to any harmful chemicals..
Here at The Good Zest Company, we have a complete range of organic citrus essential oil based shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for all common hair types and conditions including oily / greasy, dry hair, normal hair and weak or thinning hair.
You can read more on our organic conditioners in this article
Our Grapefruit Shampoo is also a great formula to treat dandruff from dry and flaky scalps.
Why Citrus Essential Oil Based Shampoos and Conditioners are Effective
Citrus essential oil based shampoos and conditioners are becoming increasingly popular due to their effectiveness and the benefits they offer for the hair and scalp. Here's a breakdown of their chemical properties and how they benefit the hair and scalp:
- Vitamin C: Citrus fruits such as lemon, orange, and grapefruit are rich in Vitamin C, which is essential for healthy hair growth. Vitamin C helps to strengthen the hair and protect it from damage, making it an excellent ingredient for hair care products.
- Antioxidants: Citrus fruits are also high in antioxidants, which help to protect the hair and scalp from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants also help to promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss.
- Essential Oils: Essential oils derived from citrus fruits are known for their ability to balance the scalp's natural oils, improving the overall health of the scalp. This can lead to healthier hair growth and reduced hair loss.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Essential oils from citrus fruits are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them ideal for those with an itchy or dry scalp. They help to soothe the scalp, reducing itching and inflammation.
- Antibacterial Properties: Citrus essential oils have varying amounts antibacterial properties, depending on the fruit, that help with skin protection.
- Antifungal Properties: Citrus essential oils also have varying amounts antifungal properties, depending on the fruit, that help with skin protection.
If you want to know more in depth information on the benefits of organic hair care, you can read our full article on the benefits of our organic ingredients and properties
You can also find which of our shampoos and conditioners are best for your hair type in our Top 10 Benefits Of Organic Shampoo And Organic Hair Care article
The Cons Of Organic Shampoos And Conditioners
To be totally objective, there are potential issues with essential oil based products.
If the concentration of essential oils in a shampoo or conditioner are too concentrated then they too can cause issues.
These issues can include the opposite of what points are commonly promoted as benefits. Irritation, redness and even burning sensations can be side effects of incorrectly formulated shampoos and conditioners made with essential oils if the proportions of ingredients are wrong.
All our organic shampoos and conditioners and specifically formulated to optimal proportions by the company founder and Clinical Aromatherapist, Rose Sergeant. Some have won awards from major organisations within the organic hair and skin care space including the Free From awards and Beauty Shortlist awards.
This ensures that unless you have a particular allergy or extremely sensitive skin, you won't have any problems with our products. For those who do have extremely sensitive skin, our lime essential oil based products are extremely kind to the skin while remaining effective and should be tolerable without irritation.
The Good Zest Company Hair Care Collection
Conclusion: Are Organic Shampoos And Conditioners Good For You?
In conclusion, switching to organic hair care products, particularly those based on citrus essential oils, can provide a wide range of benefits for the hair and scalp. By choosing products that are free from synthetic ingredients and harsh chemicals, you can help to nourish your hair and promote healthy growth, without causing any damage or irritation.
Always be sure to check that the manufacturers are qualified and experienced in the use of essential oils to minimise the risk of any side effects. This should also ensure that the products are well formulated to provide deep cleansing, nourishment and protection for your hair.
