haircare
Are you
KILLING your hair?
Your hair might be under attack and the products you are using could be the culprit. From sulphates to silicones, learn which ingredients are secretly sabotaging your strands and how to switch to formulas that protect, hydrate and make your hair shine – all season long.
By Samantha Van Hasselt, head of Learning Academy – Creme of Nature
The sunny season is a time for sun-kissed selfies and poolside fun, but it’ s also when your hair is most vulnerable. With soaring temperatures, UV exposure and chlorinated dips, the last thing you need is your products working against you. Many everyday hair products contain ingredients that quietly wreak havoc on your scalp, strands and overall hair health.
Here are the top culprits to watch out for and why they may be sabotaging your summer locks:
Sulphates
Also known as Sodium Lauryl Sulphate( SLS) or Sodium Laureth Sulphate( SLES), these foaming agents strip your scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness, frizz and irritation – especially when exposed to heat and sun. Summer hair needs hydration, not harsh detergents. Choosing sulphate-free cleansers can help maintain your hair’ s natural moisture barrier.
Alcohols
Isopropyl alcohol( IPA) and ethanol, shortchain alcohols commonly found in styling sprays and gels, evaporate quickly and dry out the hair shaft, leaving strands brittle and prone to breakage. Consider switching to products with hydrating ingredients that support moisture retention, such as glycerin, aloe vera, coconut oil and shea butter.
Silicones
While silicones like Dimethicone and Cyclopentasiloxane provide temporary shine, they coat the hair in a plastic-like layer, trapping heat and product buildup. Over time, this can block moisture absorption and contribute to breakage – especially in humid, summer climates.
Parabens
Used as preservatives, methylparaben and propylparaben might irritate sensitive scalps and are suspected of disrupting hormonal balance. Opting for paraben-free formulas can support scalp health and long-term hair vitality.
Ammonia and harsh colorants
Ammonia-based dyes can damage the cuticle and weaken the hair structure. Gentler, ammoniafree options are less damaging and help maintain healthier, stronger strands – especially important during the sun-stressed summer months.
The bottom line
Know your labels. Swap out harsh and drying ingredients for clean, nourishing formulations to keep your hair strong, soft and sun-ready all summer long. �
52 www. babysandbeyond. co. za