ORGANIC SHAMPOOS AND CONDITIONERS

There are a number of chemicals that manufacturers use in shampoos and conditioners that may cause a number of health problems. In addition, these chemicals can also irritate the skin. Here are a few particular chemicals found in non-organic shampoos and conditioners that are controversial:

Diethanolamines & Monoethanolamines (Cocamide DEA/ MEA & Lauramide DEA/ MEA)

Diethanolamines (DEA) and Monoethanolamines (MEA) are found in shampoos and other personal care products like sunscreens. In shampoos, Cocamide DEA and Lauramide DEA are used as foaming agents and emulsifiers. In 1998, the National Toxicology Program completed a study that found an association between topical application of DEA and cancer in laboratory animals. In addition, DEA can react with certain chemicals to form nitrosamines, which are powerful carcinogens. When manufacturers learned this, many switched to Lauramide DEA, but this chemical was also found to be problematic for the same reasons. Currently, many manufacturers now use Cocamide MEA and Lauramide MEA, although these chemicals are also of concern.

Parabens

Parabens are used as preservatives in a multitude of cosmetic products, including shampoos and conditioners. Exposure to parabens can irritate the skin of certain individuals. Parabens also have been proven to exhibit weak estrogenic activity, but the greatest controversy regarding their use is a possible link to cancer, which has caused organizations like the New York State Breast Cancer Support and Education Network to advocate that consumers be wary of using parabens and adopt a “better safe than sorry” mentality. Fortunately, there are many manufacturers that do not put parabens in their shampoos and conditioners, and these products are becoming more readily available.

Sodium Laurel Sulfate & Sodium Laureth Sulfate

These are synthetic chemicals that are used to produce foam, and they are primarily found in shampoos. While the chemicals are effective cleaners, they can also strip the hair of moisture, cause friziness, and even produce adverse skin reactions in certain individuals. Although there are some sources that claim these chemicals cause cancer, the American Cancer Society disagrees: "Sodium lauryl sulfate and its chemical cousin sodium laureth sulfate are known irritants, not known carcinogens."

Organic Shampoos and Conditioners

If you are concerned about using shampoos and conditioners with any of these ingredients, you will be happy to know that there are a number of organic shampoos and conditioners that do not contain them. Look for these products at places like Whole Foods Market or your local health store. Examine the labels of these organic shampoos and conditioners, because most will clearly state whether they are free of the chemicals listed above. Prices for these products are typically comparable to your normal shampoo and conditioners.