Secrets for vibrant and healthy hair

Did you know that your body absorbs up to 60% of what you put on your skin? Well, the human scalp is even more porous and easily absorbs whatever is applied to it. Most hair care products, including shampoo and conditioners used daily, are loaded with harmful and toxic chemicals that not only damage hair, but are also absorbed through the scalp, enter into the bloodstream and accumulate in the body. Since most of us wash our hair at least a few times a week, imagine how constantly applying harsh ingredients and toxic chemicals to your hair and scalp can affect your overall well-being over time.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLES) are usually found at the top of the ingredient list in major brands of shampoos and conditioners. While they create a sudsy lather that consumers enjoy, these harsh detergents have been shown to cause eye and skin irritation, scalp allergies, hair loss and eczema. Some products containing SLES and SLS have even been found to contain low levels of the known carcinogen, 1,4-dioxane.

Methylisothiazolinone (MIT), sometimes called methylisothiazolinone, is a powerful preservative found in many commonly used shampoos and conditioners. Scientists documenting MIT are concerned that exposure to this chemical by pregnant women may put their fetus at risk for abnormal brain development. In other people, the exposure could also be a factor in the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other nervous system disorders.

Parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben, p-propylparaben, isobutylparaben, n-butylparaben, and benzylparaben) are widely used antimicrobial preservatives found in shampoos and conditioners (and many other personal care products). Research dating back to 2004 found parabens in 18 of 20 breast tumors (cancer) tested. However, due to low cost and long shelf life, many manufacturers continue to use FDA-approved parabens and other harmful chemicals in most of the personal care products that line grocery and drug store shelves.

With increased awareness of the harmful effects of parabens, some manufacturers have started removing them from their ingredient list. Despite the availability of harmless natural plant-based preservatives like grape seed extract, even natural and organic manufacturers are surprisingly tolerant of phenoxyethanol, which is touted as a safe alternative to parabens. However, the use of phenoxyethanol is restricted in Japan and Europe citing “chromosomal changes and effects of genetic mutations in tests” and reports of damaging effects on the brain and central nervous system.

Other ingredients to avoid in your shampoo and conditioner include propylene glycol (antifreeze), olefin sulfonate (kerosene), and ammonium lauryl sulfate, each of which causes hair loss, irritates the scalp, clogs oil glands, and corrodes follicles. hairy. Synthetic fragrances and dyes used to color products (Yellow #5, Orange #4, and Violet #2), damage hair and disrupt the endocrine system. Still, the low price of these and other chemical ingredients allows manufacturers to increase sales and make higher profits by offering products with a consumer-friendly price tag. These mass-produced brand-name items may cost less at the store, but their use can lead to costly health problems in the long run.

What are the secrets to vibrant and healthy hair? First, choose a chemical-free shampoo and conditioner to help revive your hair and scalp by infusing them with natural minerals, vital nutrients, herbal extracts, and moisture. If you use styling products or hairspray, make sure they don’t contain strong drying chemicals, like alcohol.

Dry, brittle, dull, and weakened hair is often the result of a hormonal imbalance. This is especially obvious for women after childbirth and during menopause. Both men and women benefit greatly from the transdermal use of bioidentical progesterone cream. Safely and effectively restores healthy levels of progesterone to create hormonal balance and nourish the entire endocrine system. Not only will you feel better physically when using progesterone cream, but if your unhealthy hair is the result of a hormonal imbalance, you’ll notice a dramatic improvement in the way it looks and feels.

Using a shower head with a chlorine filter is another secret to having thick, shiny hair. Chlorine is a harsh chemical that disrupts the endocrine system and causes dry, brittle, and split hair. It also absorbs into your skin. Studies have shown that the body absorbs more chlorine from a hot shower than from drinking chlorinated water, and it can cause skin irritation and dryness. Beautiful hair also depends on a healthy diet. In addition to using chemical-free products, choose foods from the list below to maximize the health and vitality of your hair.

Water It’s essential for healthy hair and skin, but most of us don’t drink enough of it. Increase your intake of pure water daily for a positive difference in your hair and a better sense of well-being.

Salmon It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that moisturize the hair and promote the health of the scalp. An omega 3 deficiency results in dry, lifeless hair. An excellent source of healthy protein, salmon is also packed with vitamin B-12 and iron.

dark green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and Swiss chard are excellent sources of vitamins A and C, which your body needs to produce sebum. This oily substance, secreted by hair follicles, is the body’s natural hair conditioner. Dark green vegetables also provide iron and calcium.

Vegetables such as beans and lentils should be an important part of your hair care diet. They not only provide protein to promote hair growth, but also plenty of iron, zinc, and biotin.

Walnuts, Brazil nuts, especially, offer one of nature’s best sources of selenium, an important mineral for scalp health. Walnuts contain alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid that can help condition hair. They are also a good source of zinc, as are cashews, walnuts, and almonds. A zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, so make sure walnuts are a regular on your menu for healthy hair.

protein sources such as pork, sausage meat, chicken, turkey, duck, eggs, milk, whey protein, ricotta, cottage cheese, and yogurt are good sources of the amino acid cysteine, which supports healthy hair. Vegan sources of cysteine ​​include red bell peppers, garlic, onions, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, oatmeal, granola, and wheat germ.

whole grains provide hair-healthy doses of zinc, iron, and B vitamins.

carrots they are an excellent source of vitamin A, which promotes a healthy scalp and shiny hair.

It is impossible to avoid chemicals completely. However, each and every decision you make to reduce your exposure to them will improve your well-being and contribute to the health of the planet.