Why not to use over the counter products.

Did you know what you use on your hair and how you use it matters? So many over the counter products are filled with toxic ingredients and it's important to be mindful of what you are putting (not only in your body) but on your body.

As beauty industry professionals, it is important that we supply many options in what products will work best for your hair type and your needs, all while keeping toxins out. Here is a list of ingredients we strive to avoid, and you should too!

Sulfates - Known to be hormone disruptors, and over time may lead to hormonal imbalances.

Phthalates - Known to be endocrine disruptors that can affect normal hormonal functions in men & women. They're also known to be harmful to the environment.

Polyethylene Glycols (PEG) - These compounds are known to have damaging effects on your scalp, have effects human development, and are known to affect the liver and kidneys.

Dimethicone - Over time, this builds up residue on your scalp and prevents moisture from entering the hair and skin. This can clog your pores and cause irritation; prolonged use of this ingredient can be damaging to your hair health long-term and is best to be avoided.

Parabens - This is to prolong shelf life for products but are toxic to your health. Thess can mimic the function of the estrogen hormone. When there is excess estrogen in the body, if can affect normal body functions and may increase your risk for certain hormone diseases, especially when used for long periods of time.

Triclosan - Recent research on triclosan has revealed that it is a hormone disruptor that can accumulate in fat cells and is a toxic ingredient.

Retinyl Palmitate - Known tonto damaging to skin and can cause skin itching, redness, and even skin peeling. Also, a hormone disruptor that can have a negative effect on your reproductive health.

Toluene - Known to have a damaging effect on your immune system and central nervous system and may even cause birth defects. We recommend avoiding hair dyes like Toluene in them -especially if you are an expecting mother.

Coloring Agents - Used to make products more appealing. Color agents used in hair care products are derived from petroleum or coal tar. Sometimes these can be approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in food, drugs and cosmetics. Regardless of whether that are "approved" or not, these chemicals have cardiogenic effects and can be damaging to both your hair and your health.

 Added Fragrances -Often, hair care brands will add "fragrances" and "parfum" to their products. These are broad terms that are often used to hide more toxic chemicals. The chemicals in synthetic fragrances may have a negative impact on your scalp and may contribute to hair loss. Some have been linked to organ damage, reproductive issues, respiratory issues.

Alcohol - Known to make your hair and scalp very dry. Furthermore, different types of alcohol are more toxic than others. Propanol and isopropyl are especially drying and damaging to hair and can cause your hair your become thin and brittle.

Selenium Sulfide - Highly toxic ingredient that is commonly added to anti-dandruff shampoos. it is a known carcinogen that has been shown to cause tumors in mice. It is recommended to avoid any hair care products that contain selenium sulfide.

Resorcinol -Linked to skin irritation, compromised immune system, and disruption of proper thyroid function. An improperly functioning thyroid can lead to heart issues, autoimmune conditions, hormonal issues and much more.