What ingredients to avoid in shampoo?

To avoid potential skin irritation, harm to your hair, or environmental concerns, consider steering clear of the following ingredients when choosing a shampoo:

1. Sulfates (e.g., Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS))
2. Formaldehyde
3. Parabens (e.g., butylparaben, ethylparaben, methylparaben)
4. Phthalates (e.g., diethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate)
5. Synthetic fragrances
6. Synthetic colors
7. Triclosan
8. Retinyl palmitate (linked to skin peeling, reproductive issues, and possibly cancer)
9. Drying alcohols with "prop" in their name (e.g., Isopropyl alcohol, propanol)
10. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
11. Sodium Chloride (commonly known as table salt, which can be drying and irritating to the scalp)
12. Polyethylene glycol
13. Diethanolamine (DEA) (which may be linked to cancer and brain development issues in animals)
14. Silicones (such as dimethicone, which may cause product build-up, block moisture, and stop nutrients from reaching the hair strands)

It's also worth mentioning that people with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, or those with keratin-treated hair might want to avoid sodium chloride, as it can worsen symptoms or break down keratin treatments faster.