You should stop using these ASAP
You splurge on a fancy, salon-approved shampoo expecting shiny, healthy hair, only to realize weeks later that your hair feels drier, flatter, or just… off. Turns out, that “moisturizing” or “strengthening” formula might actually be full of harsh ingredients doing more harm than good.
The truth? Many shampoos—yes, even the pricey ones—contain hidden irritants, moisture-stripping chemicals, and buildup-causing fillers that can damage your strands over time. From sulfates that strip your natural oils to sneaky preservatives linked to scalp irritation and breakage, what’s in your shampoo matters more than you think.
So before you lather up again, let’s break down the 10 worst ingredients to avoid in shampoo and why you should steer clear of them. We’ll also show you how to read labels like a pro—because great hair starts with knowing what to keep out of it.
What ingredients to avoid in shampoo?
Shampoo should cleanse and nourish, leaving your hair feeling fresh—not dry, brittle, or irritated. But many formulas contain harsh chemicals that do more harm than good, stripping away natural moisture, irritating the scalp, and even messing with your hair’s long-term health. Below are the top 10 worst ingredients hiding in your shampoo—and why you should ditch them for good.
#1 Sulfates
If you love that rich, foamy lather when you shampoo, you can thank sulfates—but your hair probably isn’t as grateful. Sulfates, particularly Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), are harsh detergents commonly found in shampoos, body washes, and even household cleaners. Their main job? To create foam and remove oil and dirt. The problem? They don’t discriminate between dirt and your hair’s natural moisture.
Why they’re bad for your hair and health:
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✗ Strips natural oils While sulfates effectively remove buildup, they also strip away your scalp’s protective oils, leading to dry, brittle hair. ✗ Increases frizz and breakage By removing moisture, sulfates can leave your hair more prone to split ends and frizz. ✗ Irritates sensitive scalps Sulfates can cause redness, itching, and irritation, especially for those with dry or sensitive skin. ✗ Fades hair color faster If you’ve spent money on a fresh color job, sulfates can strip dye molecules from your hair, making your color fade quicker. |
Try these alternatives instead:
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✔ Coconut-derived surfactants (e.g., sodium coco-sulfate) Cleans hair without over-drying. ✔ Decyl glucoside & coco-glucoside Mild, non-irritating cleansers, great for sensitive scalps. ✔ Aloe vera & clay-based cleansers Naturally detoxify without stripping moisture. |
#2 Parabens
Parabens have been a hot topic in the beauty world for years, and for good reason. These synthetic preservatives are added to shampoos (and other cosmetics) to prevent bacteria growth and extend shelf life. While that sounds like a good thing, parabens have been linked to serious health concerns—most notably, hormonal disruption. Here are some other names for parabens:
– “Methylparaben”
– “Propylparaben”
– “Butylparaben”
– “Ethylparaben”
Why they’re bad for your hair and health:
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✗ Mimics estrogen in the body Parabens are classified as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormonal balance. Some studies suggest a possible link between parabens and reproductive issues. ✗ Can accumulate in the body over time Parabens have been found in breast tissue samples, raising concerns about long-term exposure. ✗ Potential scalp irritant While not as harsh as sulfates, parabens can cause itchiness, redness, and sensitivity in some people. |
Try these alternatives instead:
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✔ Vitamin E (tocopherol) A natural antioxidant that protects against bacteria growth. ✔ Rosemary extract Contains antimicrobial properties to extend product shelf life. ✔ Radish root ferment filtrate A plant-based preservative that fights bacteria. |
#3 Silicones
Silicones are like the Instagram filter of hair care—they make hair look sleek and smooth on the outside, but underneath, things aren’t as pretty. Found in many mainstream shampoos and conditioners, silicones coat the hair shaft, creating that instant silky-soft feeling. The problem? That smoothness is often an illusion, and over time, silicone buildup can leave hair dull, dry, and weighed down. Here are some other names for silicones:
– “Dimethicone”
– “Cyclomethicone”
– “Amodimethicone”
Why they’re bad for your hair and health:
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✗ They cause buildup Silicones don’t rinse out easily, which means layers of residue can form over time, leading to flat, lifeless hair. ✗ They block moisture While they initially make hair feel hydrated, silicones actually seal the hair shaft, preventing essential moisture from getting in. This can worsen dryness over time, especially for curly or textured hair. ✗ Some silicones require harsh sulfates to remove If your shampoo contains sulfates and silicones, you’re stuck in a cycle: Sulfates strip your hair → Silicones coat it to make up for lost moisture → More sulfates are needed to remove buildup. |
Try these alternatives instead:
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✔ Argan oil ✔ Jojoba oil ✔ Coconut oil |
Heads up: If you’re switching to a silicone-free routine, expect a short transition period where your hair might feel a little rough at first. That’s just buildup clearing away—stick with it, and your real, healthy shine will come through.
#4 Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
If the thought of formaldehyde in your shampoo makes you raise an eyebrow, you’re not alone. While you won’t see “formaldehyde” directly listed on most ingredient labels, some shampoos contain preservatives that release formaldehyde over time, exposing you to a known carcinogen while you wash your hair. Here are some common names you may see on your labels:
– “DMDM Hydantoin”
– “Diazolidinyl Urea & Imidazolidinyl Urea”
– “Quaternium-15”
Why they’re bad for your hair and health:
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✗ Potential carcinogen The U.S. National Toxicology Program classifies formaldehyde as a known human carcinogen with long-term exposure. ✗ Can cause scalp irritation These preservatives are harsh on sensitive skin, leading to itchiness, redness, and even hair loss in some cases. ✗ Linked to allergic reactions Some people experience burning, rashes, or flaking from prolonged exposure to formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. |
Try these alternatives instead:
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✔ Radish root ferment filtrate A plant-based antimicrobial preservative. ✔ Rosemary extract Naturally extends shelf life while promoting scalp health. ✔ Vitamin E (Tocopherol) A natural antioxidant that prevents bacterial growth. |
#5 Synthetic fragrances & phthalates
Ever checked the ingredients list on your shampoo and seen “Fragrance” or “Parfum”? Sounds harmless, right? Not exactly. That single word can be a catch-all term for hundreds of unlisted chemicals, many of which are linked to hormone disruption, scalp irritation, and allergic reactions. And hiding inside these synthetic fragrances? Phthalates—a group of chemicals that help scents last longer but come with some serious health concerns.
– “Fragrance (or Parfum)”
– “Diethyl Phthalate (DEP) & Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)”
– “Musk Ketone & Galaxolide”
Why they’re bad for your hair and health:
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✗ Unknown chemical exposure Since “fragrance” is considered a trade secret, companies aren’t required to disclose the exact chemicals used, meaning you have no idea what’s actually in there. ✗ Potential hormone disruptors Phthalates (like DEP and DBP) have been linked to endocrine disruption, meaning they can interfere with hormones like estrogen and testosterone. ✗ Can trigger allergies & irritation Artificial fragrances are a top cause of contact dermatitis, leading to itchy scalps, flaking, and inflammation. ✗ Environmental concerns Many synthetic fragrances are non-biodegradable, meaning they linger in waterways and harm aquatic life. |
Try these alternatives instead:
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✔ Essential oils (e.g., lavender, peppermint, citrus) Provide fragrance and scalp benefits. ✔ Herbal infusions (e.g., chamomile, rosemary, green tea) Naturally add scent and nourishment. ✔ Coconut, vanilla, and fruit extracts Offer a light, natural aroma without harsh chemicals. |
And if you’re sensitive to scents, go for fragrance-free shampoos—your scalp (and hormones) will love you for it.
#6 Polyethylene glycols (PEGs)
Shampoos that promise a luxurious, creamy texture often owe that silkiness to polyethylene glycols (PEGs)—a group of petroleum-based compounds used to thicken products and enhance spreadability. But here’s the problem: PEGs aren’t just unnecessary—they may also be contaminated with carcinogens.
– “PEG-40, PEG-100, PEG-150”
– “Propylene Glycol & Butylene Glycol”
– “Polysorbates (Polysorbate-20, Polysorbate-80)”
Why they’re bad for your hair and health:
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✗ Can be contaminated with toxic compounds PEGs are often contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, both classified as probable human carcinogens by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ✗ Can dry out your hair over time While PEGs help shampoos feel luxurious, they don’t provide real moisture, leading to dry, brittle hair in the long run. ✗ May cause scalp irritation Some PEGs can be harsh on sensitive skin, leading to redness, itching, or flaking. ✗ Environmental concerns PEGs are derived from petroleum, meaning they contribute to environmental pollution and non-renewable resource use. |
Try these alternatives instead:
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✔ Aloe vera gel Hydrates while naturally thickening formulas. ✔ Guar gum & xanthan gum Plant-based thickeners that create a smooth consistency. ✔ Coconut or olive oil derivatives Help emulsify ingredients while nourishing the scalp. |
#7 Alcohols (the good vs. the bad)
Not all alcohols in shampoo are bad, but knowing the difference between the drying ones and the hydrating ones can make or break your hair. Short-chain alcohols like isopropyl alcohol and ethanol are often found in volumizing and fast-drying shampoos, but they can strip moisture, weaken strands, and leave hair feeling like straw. Here are some of the alcohols to avoid:
– “Isopropyl Alcohol”
– “Ethanol & SD Alcohol”
– “Denatured Alcohol”
Fatty alcohols, however, are the good guys. They smooth, condition and help hair retain moisture. Here are a few names:
– “Cetyl Alcohol”
– “Stearyl Alcohol”
– “Cetearyl Alcohol”
Why they’re bad for your hair:
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✗ Extremely drying Short-chain alcohols evaporate quickly, which might be great for styling products, but not for your hair’s hydration. ✗ Can cause scalp irritation Frequent use can lead to dryness, flaking, and itchiness, especially for sensitive scalps. ✗ Weakens hair over time Lack of moisture makes hair more prone to split ends, frizz, and breakage. |
Try these alternatives instead:
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✔ Glycerin A natural humectant that locks in hydration. ✔ Aloe vera Soothes the scalp and adds lightweight moisture. ✔ Shea butter & plant oils Strengthen and nourish hair without buildup. |
PS: If your shampoo promises "weightless volume" but leaves your hair feeling like hay, chances are it's full of drying alcohols—time to switch!
#8 Triclosan
Triclosan was originally added to shampoos for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, but over time, researchers discovered some serious health and environmental risks linked to this chemical. While it’s been banned in antibacterial hand soaps, it can still show up in some shampoos, deodorants, and even toothpaste. Here are the common names displayed on your labels:
– “Triclosan (TCS)”
– “Triclocarban”
Why they’re bad for your hair and health:
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✗ Linked to hormone disruption Triclosan has been found to disrupt thyroid function and mess with the body's natural hormone balance. ✗ Can irritate the scalp Overuse of antibacterial agents can strip the scalp’s natural protective barrier, leading to dryness and irritation. ✗ Environmental concerns Triclosan is toxic to aquatic life and has been detected in water supplies, making it a problem beyond hair care. |
Try these alternatives instead:
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✔ Tea tree oil ✔ Rosemary extract ✔ Aloe vera |
#9 Coal tar
Coal tar sounds like something that belongs on a construction site, not in your shampoo, but it’s been used in anti-dandruff and psoriasis treatments for decades. While it can be effective at reducing flaking and soothing an itchy scalp, research has raised concerns about its potential health risks—including links to carcinogenic effects with prolonged exposure. Some common names include:
– “Coal Tar Solution”
– “Carbo-Lav”
– “Tar Distillates”
Why they’re bad for your hair and health:
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✗ Classified as a potential carcinogen The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has strict regulations on how much coal tar can be used in cosmetics, and the European Union has banned it altogether. ✗ Can cause skin irritation Coal tar is a harsh ingredient that can cause redness, sensitivity, or allergic reactions—especially for those with delicate scalps. ✗ Environmental concerns Since coal tar is a byproduct of coal processing, it’s not biodegradable and raises pollution concerns. |
Try these alternatives instead:
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✔ Salicylic acid Exfoliates the scalp and removes flaky buildup. ✔ Zinc pyrithione A powerful anti-dandruff agent that fights fungus and bacteria. ✔ Neem oil A natural antifungal ingredient that soothes the scalp and reduces flakes. |
#10 Artificial dyes
Shampoos don’t need to be neon pink, electric blue, or deep purple to work, yet many brands add synthetic dyes to make their products look more appealing. Many of these dyes are petroleum-derived, meaning they can cause irritation, allergic reactions, and even long-term health risks. Here’s what to look out for on labels (if the color isn’t obvious enough):
– “FD&C Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1”
– “D&C Colors”
– “Petroleum-Based Dyes”
Why they’re bad for your hair and health:
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✗ Potential scalp irritants Some artificial colors can trigger allergic reactions, leading to itchiness, dryness, and flaking. ✗ May contain harmful contaminants Certain synthetic dyes are contaminated with heavy metals, which build up in the body over time. ✗ Linked to skin sensitivity Some FD&C dyes have been flagged as allergens, particularly for people with eczema or psoriasis. ✗ Not necessary for function Unlike ingredients that cleanse, hydrate, or strengthen hair, dyes serve no real purpose—they’re purely aesthetic. |
Try these alternatives instead:
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✔ Beetroot extract Naturally adds a pinkish-red hue while boosting scalp circulation. ✔ Hibiscus powder Enhances red and burgundy tones while promoting hair growth. ✔ Chamomile extract Gives shampoos a golden tint and soothes the scalp. |
Time to rethink your shampoo
If your hair isn’t thriving, your shampoo might be the culprit. Dryness, breakage, scalp irritation—these aren’t just random hair struggles. Many times, they’re linked to harsh ingredients hiding in your bottle, stripping away moisture, clogging follicles, or disrupting your scalp’s natural balance.
Now that you know what to avoid, it’s time for a shampoo audit. Grab your current bottle, flip it over, and scan for sulfates, parabens, silicones, or any of the other ingredients in shampoo to avoid what we’ve covered. If they’re in the mix, it might be time to ditch it and switch to something healthier.
Great hair starts with great ingredients. That’s why The Lauren Ashtyn Collection’s gentle, nourishing hair care products is designed to support healthy strands and a balanced scalp—without the nasty stuff. Whether you need a sulfate-free cleanse or styling products that actually strengthen your hair, we’ve got you covered.
