PRODUCTS TO AVOID
For more information on the product and its dangers click the product name.
FINE TOOTHED COMBS
Combing African hair on a daily basis may result in the equivalent of a daily haircut in some people.
MINERAL OIL
Mineral oil or liquid petroleum is a by-product in the distillation of petroleum to produce gasoline and other petroleum based products from crude oil. Not to be confused with plant-based essential oils, mineral oil doesn’t moisturize the hair.
PARABENS
Opponents say parabens, particularly butylparaben, disrupt normal hormone functioning by mimicking estrogen. Scientific evidence suggests exposure to estrogen and substances that behave like estrogen may increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer.
Even more troubling, parabens are being used in products like lotions, deodorants, and make-up that stay on the skin for long periods of time, being absorbed directly into the body. Some scientists are concerned that parabens could migrate through the skin and into the bloodstream, bypassing the gastrointestinal system, which normally breaks down and eliminates toxins from the body.
PERMANENT HAIR DYES
Most permanent hair color dyes contain, ammonia, peroxide and PPDs. P-phenylenediamine (ppd) also known as phenylenediame, phenylenediame dihydrochloride or benzenediamine dihydrochloride is a petrochemical responsible for most hair color allergies. To lighten hair, the hair cuticle must be lifted to deposit the color. Over time this may lead to dry hair which can result in split ends and breakage.
PETROLEUM JELLY
Petroleum jelly, petrolatum or soft paraffin is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons, originally promoted as a topical ointment for its healing properties. However it weighs down the hair instead of moisturizing it.
SULFATES
A suspected gastrointestinal or liver toxicant, sodium lauryl sulfate — commonly found in shampoos — can be drying and harsh for the hair and cause eye irritation, allergic reactions, and hair loss.
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