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Choosing the right hair products isn’t just about what they promise on the front of the bottle - it’s about what’s actually inside. Many mainstream shampoos, conditioners and styling products are filled with synthetic ingredients that may damage your hair, scalp, or even overall health over time. Knowing what ingredients to avoid in hair products is key to creating a safe and effective haircare routine.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 10 harmful ingredients to avoid and suggest natural, effective alternatives that help you achieve stronger, shinier and healthier hair - without compromise.
1. Parabens
Why to avoid:
Parabens are synthetic preservatives used to extend shelf life by preventing mould and bacteria. However, they’re known endocrine disruptors and can mimic oestrogen in the body, potentially contributing to hormone imbalances and even increasing the risk of breast cancer. They can also trigger scalp irritation and sensitivity.
Use instead:
Look for shampoos and conditioners preserved with natural alternatives like benzoic acid, coconut oil, or essential oils - all of which help protect your product and nourish your scalp.
2. Sulphates
Why to avoid:
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLES) are foaming agents that give shampoo its bubbly lather. Unfortunately, they also strip natural oils from the scalp and hair, leaving it dry, brittle and frizzy. Sulphates can exacerbate scalp issues like eczema or dandruff.
Use instead:
Opt for sulphate-free shampoo and conditioners made with gentle cleansers like cocamidopropyl betaine (from coconut) that cleanse effectively without stripping moisture. They're ideal for colour-treated or dry, damaged hair.
3. Phthalates
Why to avoid:
Phthalates are used to make fragrances last longer in products — but they’re also hormone disruptors linked to reproductive and developmental concerns. They can also trigger headaches or allergic reactions.
Use instead:
Choose fragrance-free products or those scented with natural essential oils like lavender or rosemary. These are safer and offer aromatherapeutic benefits too.
4. Mineral Oil
Why to avoid:
Mineral oil, a petroleum byproduct, is sometimes added for its moisture-locking ability. However, it coats the hair and scalp in a film that clogs pores, traps dirt, and blocks hydration — leading to dryness and scalp build-up over time.
Use instead:
Go for natural oils like argan oil or jojoba oil, which hydrate deeply and support healthy scalp function without residue.
5. Petroleum & Petrolatum
Why to avoid:
Often marketed as moisturisers, petroleum-based ingredients sit heavily on the scalp, sealing in moisture — but also sealing out air and nutrients. They can lead to product build-up, clogged follicles and slow hair growth.
Use instead:
Switch to products formulated with shea butter or cocoa butter, which condition the hair and scalp naturally without suffocating it.
6. Triclosan
Why to avoid:
Triclosan is an antibacterial agent that’s been banned in many countries for use in cosmetics. It can disrupt hormones, contribute to antibiotic resistance, and cause scalp irritation or allergic reactions.
Use instead:
Seek out shampoos with natural antimicrobials like tea tree oil or lavender oil, which help maintain a healthy scalp without the risks.
7. Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents
Why to avoid:
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and strong irritant. Even if not listed directly, ingredients like DMDM Hydantoin or Quaternium-15 release formaldehyde over time in your haircare.
Use instead:
Look for naturally preserved formulas using potassium sorbate or sodium benzoate, which are effective and much safer.
8. Synthetic Fragrances
Why to avoid:
“Fragrance” on an ingredient list often hides a cocktail of chemicals, including phthalates and allergens. They can cause headaches, skin reactions, and scalp sensitivity.
Use instead:
Look for clearly labelled natural fragrance blends or products scented with certified organic essential oils.
9. Polyethylene Glycol (PEGs)
Why to avoid:
PEGs are petroleum-derived compounds used to thicken and stabilise products. They can dry out hair and are often contaminated with carcinogens like 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing.
Use instead:
Natural thickeners like xanthan gum, guar gum, or aloe vera gel provide the same texture benefits without the risks.
10. Alcohol (Denatured and Isopropyl Alcohol)
Why to avoid:
While not all alcohols are harmful, denatured and isopropyl alcohols dry out your strands, making them brittle and prone to breakage.
Use instead:
If you see cetyl, stearyl, or cetearyl alcohol, don’t panic- these are fatty alcohols that actually moisturise and soften hair.
What Should You Use Instead?
Look for clean, plant-based haircare made with high-performing natural ingredients like:
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Aloe Vera – Soothes and hydrates the scalp
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Argan Oil – Adds shine and prevents frizz
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Shea Butter – Deeply nourishes and restores moisture
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Essential Oils – Natural fragrance and promote scalp health
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Coconut Oil - Known for its deep conditioning properties, Coconut Oil penetrates the hair shaft to reduce protein loss, enhancing hair strength and shine.
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Hydrolysed Rice Protein - This plant-based protein strengthens hair strands, improves elasticity, and adds volume, making it ideal for fine or damaged hair.
At Pump Haircare, all our products are free from sulphates, parabens, and other nasties, and loaded with naturally-derived ingredients that are safe for everyday use. Whether you're restoring dry hair, boosting growth, or simply looking for scalp care products, you’ll find a safe, effective formula for your needs.
Final Tips for Healthier Haircare
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Always read ingredient labels
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Avoid “fragrance” unless specified as natural or essential oils
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Prioritise Australian-made, salon-quality haircare brands that are transparent about ingredients
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Combine clean products with a complete routine: shampoo, conditioner, hair mask, and growth serum for best results
