How to Use Natural Shampoo
You may use natural shampoo for many reasons. Many people use it because they like living a green lifestyle. Others feel that their hair remains healthier when the wash it with natural ingredients. Others still have found that natural shampoo is easier on dyed hair. Also people prefer to use natural body washes and natural shampoos.
But some companies use the word natural in a deceptive way. Occasionally it does simply mean natural ingredients. When you see the words natural ingredients they refer to just about anything derived from nature. This means that a shampoo might contain a few natural ingredients and a lot of unnatural ones. In general just a few preservatives and small amount of dye can be okay. Though if you have sensitive skin you might have a bit more trouble with artificial colors and fragrances. The serious ingredients to look for are the ones that may actually undo the positive benefits of the real natural ingredients.
Keep a close eye out for lauryl- and laureth sulfate. This is what causes shampoo foam. In addition, though, it will strip your hair. The result is hair that is brittle and weak. Also, it can fade color. Excessive lauryl sulfate in shampoos end up lightening and dulling hair. When you read ingredients avoid anything with the words lauryl or laureth.
In addition, keep an eye out for sulfides and sulfur. These are quite common in dandruff shampoos. It is certainly reasonably to argue that sulfur is natural. But in some cases it can actually cause dandruff. If you choose to use a sulfur based shampoo, keep it out of your eyes. You might also end up with hair that is drier than usual.
Natural shampoos tend to share common characteristics:
* They do not have a lot of ingredients - Most of the ingredients that go in shampoos are artificial. Most natural shampoos will just have a base of soap and a few other ingredients.
* You do not get much foam with natural shampoos - This is because most foam is caused by natural agents.
* They often have ingredients you would expect to see in your kitchen - You will likely see herbs, baking soda and even vinegar. In fact many people actually wash their hair with baking soda, apple cider vinegar and water.
If you already have perfect hair, then you should stick with what you are doing! If you are on the prowl for a new natural shampoo, then be sure you are getting the real deal. The secret ingredients can cause some serious damage to your hair. Just be certain that your natural shampoo is the real deal before you start washing your hair.
