Why chemicals are bad for curly hair: what to look out for and how to spot them

Curly hair is naturally more prone to dryness and damage which makes adding harsh chemicals into the mix a recipe for disaster.

Many hair care products are chock full of ingredients that do more harm than good!

Let’s dive into why certain chemicals are a no-go for curly hair, which ones you should steer clear of, and how to spot them on your product labels.

The trouble with harsh chemicals

Harsh chemicals can strip natural oils from your hair, leaving your curls dry, brittle, and frizzy. These ingredients disrupt the natural keratin structure of your hair, weakening the hair follicles and causing breakage.

For curly hair, which naturally requires more moisture than straight hair, maintaining hydration is crucial. Chemicals that strip moisture can undo all your efforts to keep your curls healthy and vibrant.

Chemicals to avoid

Here’s a rundown of some common culprits that can wreak havoc on curly hair:

• Sulphates (sodium lauryl sulphate and sodium laureth sulphate): Found in many shampoos, sulphates are detergents that clean hair by removing dirt and oil. However, they can be too effective, stripping away the natural oils that keep curly hair manageable and moisturised.

• Silicones (dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane): Silicones coat the hair to make it feel smooth and look shiny. However, they can build up over time, weighing down curls and preventing moisture from penetrating the hair shaft.

• Alcohols: Not all alcohols are bad, but short-chain alcohols like ethanol, SD alcohol, SD alcohol 40, alcohol denat, propanol, propyl alcohol, and isopropyl alcohol can be very drying. They evaporate quickly, taking the hair’s natural moisture with them.

• Parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben): Used as preservatives in many cosmetic products, parabens can irritate the scalp and may disrupt hormone function.

• Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives: Often used in hair straightening products and some shampoos, formaldehyde and chemicals that release formaldehyde over time can be harmful to health and damage the hair follicle.

How to spot harmful chemicals

Becoming a savvy label-reader is key to protecting your curls from harsh chemicals.

Here are a few tips:

• Check the ingredient list: Ingredients are listed in order of concentration, so those at the top of the list are present in higher amounts. Be especially wary of any product where harmful chemicals appear near the top. I'm a big fan of 'Is it CG', a website that analyses the ingredients of curly hair products doing away with the guess work. 

• Look for certifications: Products certified as organic or natural are less likely to contain harsh chemicals. However, you should still check the ingredient list as terms like ‘organic’ and ‘natural’ can be used as a marketing ploy.

• Do your research: Familiarise yourself with harmful ingredients and their alternatives. Resources like the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep database can be helpful.

Healthier alternatives

Opt for hair care products that are specifically formulated for curly hair and free from harsh chemicals. Culytops recommends Clever Curl and Crown Curly. 

Helen Thompson, founder of Crown Curly is on a mission to create a truly sustainable brand driven by purpose. And part of that ethos is avoiding dodgy chemicals. Similarly, Clever Curl is committed to making products with mostly organic ingredients. A commitment that goes well beyond marketing. 

Navigating the world of curly hair care can be daunting, but knowing what to avoid is half the battle.

By choosing products wisely and staying informed about the ingredients that go into your hair care routine, you can maintain your curls in all their glory without compromising on health. 

Looking for more curly hair tips and tricks? 

Check out more of our advice here.

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