Shampoo
Hair cleansing products designed to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup. Used by most people daily or several times per week, making cumulative exposure significant.
Why It Matters
Shampoo is rinsed down the drain, potentially polluting waterways. Chemicals can be absorbed through the scalp and inhaled in shower steam.
Chemicals of Concern in This Product
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
A surfactant and foaming agent found in many cleaning and personal care products. Creates the...
Parabens
Preservatives commonly used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products to prevent...
Phthalates
A group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and harder to break. Also used as...
Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde Releasers
A colorless gas used as a preservative, disinfectant, and textile finishing agent. In clothing,...
Ingredient Red Flags
Watch for these on ingredient labels:
- Fragrance/Parfum (can hide phthalates)
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- DMDM Hydantoin
- Methylparaben
- Propylparaben
What to Look For
- ✓Sulfate-free formulas (gentler on hair and scalp)
- ✓Fragrance-free or naturally scented with essential oils
- ✓Paraben-free preservatives
- ✓Short, recognizable ingredient lists
Finding Safer Options
Look for EWG Verified products, Certified organic shampoos, or consider solid shampoo bars with minimal ingredients.
Certifications to Look For
Other Products in This Category
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Skin hydrating products applied to face and body, often used daily. Since...
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UV protection products applied to skin before sun exposure. Critical for...
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