Have you been duped by the cosmetics industry? Do you suffer from acne, eczema, psoriasis or rosacea? And can’t figure out how to get rid of it? What foods can you eat for strong, shiny and healthy hair? Are you using safe shampoo, conditioner and styling products?
Check out this video on holistic hair care for answers! P.S. There is a surprise ending!
Food Babe’s Holistic Hair Video Notes & Extra Tips:
- Your skin is your largest organ! What you put on your hair, is absorbed into your blood through your scalp and face. Nurture it, be kind to it, and most importantly LOVE it!
- Eat foods that have a rich source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids & all the essential amino acids like chia seeds, hemp seeds and flaxseeds. Your hair is made up of protein, getting all the essential amino acids will help it get stronger and grow more lustrous
- Silica found in cucumbers, cabbage and celery are great to improve elasticity of hair preventing split ends!
- Joy McCarthy, a registered holistic nutritionist recommends to eats lots of dark leafy greens like Kale that provide Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Iron which are critical for healthy, strong and shiny hair. She also says to eat lots of legumes too! Brittle hair is often caused by a deficiency in biotin which is found in beans.
- Choose hair care products fragranced with natural smells from essential oils, herbs, fruits and vegetables.
- Sleep on a 100% silk pillowcase – not only will this help you prevent bed head – it will help you get less wrinkles on your face.
- Have you tried searching for the hair care products you use on EWG’s cosmetic database? I did and was saddened to learn so many popular hair care brands were rated 8-10!
- Try to pick hair care products that are all below a rating of 3 on the EWG cosmetic database.
- Check all your hair care products individually for safety. Don’t assume if you use a certain brand, your product is safe. Many companies have products across the spectrum from really safe and natural to horribly deadly.
- Stop relying on fancy marketing and celebrities to choose brands.
- Vote with your dollars! Stop supporting companies that are harming the environment, your family and most importantly your own body with crazy chemicals!
- What works for me, may not work for you – there are so many great natural products available now, you WILL find some that suit you. It might take you some time navigating through the “old” world of natural beauty! God knows, I’ve been through several trials and errors.
Here are my absolute favorite holistic hair care products below and links on where to get them-
- John Masters Lavender Rosemary for Normal Hair – Shampoo that gets your hair luxuriously shiny and soft.
- John Masters Organics Evening Primrose Shampoo For Dry Hair – I love this shampoo because I have to wash my hair more often than I like. Oh the sacrifices for HOT YOGA! I am also a “Vata” Dosha – so I have a tendency to have dry skin and hair.
- John Masters Organics Two in One – Zinc & Sage Shampoo and Conditioner – Great for the men and to replace head and shoulders!
- John Masters Organics Lavender and Avocado Intensive Conditioner – I love this stuff. It makes my hair smell like candy. An avocado based dessert infused with lavender for your hair 🙂
- John Masters Organics Rosemary & Peppermint Detangler Conditioner – Amazing, workings like a charm and I love the smell!
- Argan Oil – Make the switch, stop using chemical laden Moroccan Oil. 100% pure argan oil works just the same making your hair smooth, frizz free, shiny and dry faster.
- Giovanni Direct Leave in Conditioner – By far my favorite leave in conditioner. I love this stuff – I can wash my hair at night, leave this in and not dry it at all. My hair ends up looking fabulous with little to no effort in the morning! Giovanni also make an array of good styling products like mousse and hair spray that is less toxic.
- Aubrey Organics Hair Care – They have the most fantastic products that are all safe! My favorite is the “Tangle and Go” primrose hair spray. Makes my hair smell like fresh roses! I also like the volumizing shampoo and conditioner and the honeysuckle. (I used to eat the honey out of honeysuckles as a kid… it’s been years and this shampoo brings back so many childhood memories!)
- Avalon Organics Hair Care – I’ve tried A LOT of their products, I love the peppermint shampoo and conditioner, it’s my favorite and rated a 2 on EWG.org.
If you know someone who is suffering from facial skin problems like eczema, acne or roseaca or needs some hairy advice, please share this post with them!
XOXO,
Food Babe
P.S.
Check out my past posts on safe cosmetics –
Be a Drug Store Beauty Drop Out
So Fresh and So Clean Skin Care Tips
And Part 2 of this post – Hairy Afterthoughts, Holistic Hair Care
I am desperately trying to find a hair color product that is both safe and looks good. I have tried a couple of the ammonia-free, all-natural and they just look bad and dry out my hair. Do you any suggestions?
Unfortunately I don’t have much experience with natural dyes, as I have never colored my hair before. I will ask around to my resources for more advice. In the meantime – Check out this link & brand options – have you tried any of these? I would love to know which products to avoid when the time comes! Thanks for stopping by!
http://www.treehugger.com/style/salon-quality-100-natural-hair-dye-by-advanced-cosmetic-technologies.html
* Aveda: Uses green tea extract to oxidize the dye, along with essential oils and plant extracts.
* Ecocolors: Contains flax oil and flower essences with little ammonia.
* Herbatint: European import, uses no ammonia.
* Naturtint: Good DIY option if you’re going it at home
Also Beware – those that claim no PPD (chemicals that adhere color to hair) typically use lead or mercury instead
I am a hairstylist and use Davines. We have a new ammonia free hair color. I need to do a little more research myself, however, the A New colour uses carotenoids- vegetable pigments, vegetable melanin, and monoethanolamine replaces ammonia.
We also have a Naturaltech line of treatment shampoos and conditioners that are paraben and sulfate free. The shampoos and conditioners definitely come with a price but I don’t have enough good things to say about them.
Beware of Aveda hair color! They claim to be and plant based but their products contain some very nasty chemicals including PPD (Paraphenylenediamine) which is a carcinogenic and can cause life threatening allergic reactions. I learned this from personal experience, unfortunately. Over time I developed an allergy to their semi-permanent hair color after using it for years and wound up with a horrible burning itching stinging rash that persisted for weeks. I was lucky though – people have DIED from this!
Foodbabe – I hope you will investigate and blog about this topic. Misleading advertizing by Aveda and other hair color brands is putting people at risk.
Jennifer, consider pure plant dyes like henna, cassia, and indigo, and keep in mind that even with those it is important to know your source and check ingredients carefully.
Since I had to fight with Aveda’s customer service to find out what is in their hair color products, might as well make it easier for the next person who wants to know by posting here. This is from an email I received from them on Sept 19 2011.
98% plant based, they say. What they do not want you to know is that the other 2% is dangerous chemicals like PPD and Resorcinol.
Full Spectrum Permanent Hair Color
*1-Napthol****
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf****
Ammonium Hydroxide****
Camellia Oleifera Extract****
Camellia Sinensis Extract****
Cetearyl Alcohol****
Cocamide MEA****
Cocamidopropyl Betaine****
Erythorbic Acid****
Glycerin****
Glyceryl Stearate****
Helianthus Annuus (Hybrid Sunflower) Oil****
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein****
m-Aminophenol****
Oleic Acid****
p-Aminophenol****
Polysorbate 20****
p-Phenylenediamine****
Resorcinol****
Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil****
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil****
Sodium Sulfite****
Sorbitan Stearate****
Steareth-21****
Tetrasodium EDTA****
Vanillin****
Water****
** **
Full Spectrum Deposit Only Hair Color
Aminomethyl Propanol****
Cetearyl Alcohol****
Cocamide MEA****
Cocamidopropyl Betaine****
Dimethicone Copolyol Phosphate****
Disodium Phosphate****
Erythorbic Acid****
Geraniol****
Glycerin****
Glyceryl Stearate****
Helianthus Annuus (Hybrid Sunflower) Oil****
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract****
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein****
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil****
m-Aminophenol****
Oleic Acid****
p-Aminophenol****
Polysorbate 20****
p-Phenylenediamine****
Resorcinol****
Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil****
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil****
Sodium Hydroxide****
Sodium Sulfite****
Sorbitan Stearate****
Steareth-21****
Tetrasodium EDTA****
Water****
hair dye made from henna, just pick your color. http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/search/search.php?refine=y&keywords=henna&x=-1108&y=-52
I am desperately trying to find good natural hair color also! Can’t wait for you to do a report food babe 🙂 love your reports!
When I was pregnant, I struggled to find a natural hair color, only to go without. I would love to know what is safe or not. I did find out, however, that only natural red henna is safe, and that black henna can be deceiving because it contains toxic metals.
thanks sonia!
Vani, you have beautiful hair! I am proud to see that you are taking good care of your hair without using many artificial chemically loaded hair products. Your grandma used to massage my hair with warm gooseberry mixed with coconut oil every Sunday before washing. I had knee length hair before getting my first haircut!
Keep up the good work!
Thanks Mom! I’ll have to try that gooseberry coconut oil trick! I want to grow my hair even longer to look just like yours! Love you for the encouragement!
Your mom is so presh!
Vani,
Thanks for the post! I have tried holistic hair stuff before, but I had trouble getting it to wash out of my hair, but I will definitely try your suggestions. Also, I had a question…what kind of laundry detergent do you use? I was thinking about how you said when you lay on your pillow the chemicals from your hair care products can enter your blood stream, so I suppose that would also be true for what you wash your clothes/sheets with? Weird question I know, but just curious!
Great question!!! Yes – the products you wash your clothes with totally matter and absorbed into your skin! Just like hair care – it can be trial and error to find the right detergent. I love Seventh Generation Free & Clear Laundry Detergent. You can find it at Target, Whole Foods, Earth Fare, Home Healthy Market, etc. I like to order it on the internet because it is cheaper!
Awesome! I’ve been wanting to try Seventh Generation for a long time! I am definitely going to pick some up soon! Thank you!
I have been using the seventh gen as well but was saddened to see that it received a D from ewg. I’m trying to find another that actually works on tough little boy stains.
We use all natural Cal Ben Five Star soaps, laundry detergent, dish soap, and shampoo. Bought the sample package, researched the products, then bought the five year package. It will definitely last longer than the five years. We love all the products!!!!!!! Has been worth every penny we spent. No more shopping for these products on a weekly or monthly basis. The body soap is even gentle enough you can use as a toothpaste, which we did for a while.
I’ve been using Country Save (plant based) for a while now and love it! I have a front loader and 4 boys, which means stains everywhere! Before washing I spray the stains with Bac-out (made from limes and smells wonderful) and almost all of them come right out. I get them both from Amazon.
Molly’s Suds is amazing laundry detergent!!!
Recently I started using soap nuts to clean my laundry. They are the most eco friendly option I have seen with NO chemical output. If the laundry is very dirty I add some baking soda to the wash and vinegar to the rinse. I also have an essential oil mix I make for disinfecting the laundry. I bought 5 pounds of organic soapnuts whole sale for less than $40 – these should last over a year. The baking soda and vinegar(choose distilled) are very inexpensive, and the EO mix I use is made from cheaper or excess oils. So now I do a years worth of laundry for about $50. I have not found any fabric sheets I am really happy with, so will be trying to make some of those up soon as well.
Try Wool dryer balls… you can sent them with your essential oils. Cuts down dry time. You can buy them, but they are also super easy to make yourself!!!
That’s a great idea, and so eco friendly!
Wich brand of soap nuts are you using? Thanks!
The brand I have currently is PrivateLabelSoapNuts. And these were less expensive because they were they dark brown, instead of the light brown, as they have different grades. Mountain Rose Herbs is another great supplier, and you can buy just one pound for a good price, but when I wanted to get my soap nuts they were out of stock.
I have a hearing problem and had trouble hearing your video. Will I get everything from the written part?
When you recommend products, are you able to get everything from Earth Fare? It would be a help if you could tell us where you find products (such as that date sugar which you seem to recommend.
Thanks. Would also help if when we chose the recipe tab at top of website we could get any recipes you have written previously. I also do not like using Facebook and wonder if questions and answers can be done thru a website of yours. I am new and trying to learn how to maneuver your blog. Think you do a great research job and trying now to take all links to obtain past info.
Carol – I’m working on the recipe section to make them more searchable and easier to navigate. Thanks for the feedback. Have you seen the “shop” portion of my site? https://foodbabe.com/shop/ – I include links to products that I use on a regular basis that you can get from Amazon online. Many of the products you can find at Earth Fare, Healthy Home Market and Vitamin Shoppe. The date sugar is available at most natural food stores. If there is another specific item in question – let me know and I’ll see if I can help you. Good Luck Carol!
Best shampoo ever…baking soda and water. I won’t be buying shampoo anymore.
I was hoping someone would post that!!! I follow w/vinegar to rinse…For travel I use DevaCurl No Poo 🙂
Hi Lacie, could you be more specific please?? How do you use it? just sprinkle it on and rinse it out and then how much vinegar? thanks a bunch 🙂 does it leave your hair dry?
Coincidentally I just got samples of Frederic Fekkai in the mail yesterday. I won’t be using them. Thank you so much for the informative post! After viewing your video, I looked into some of my natural products and I was surprised to find that many of those even contained harmful ingredients.
Psoriasis is a genetic skin disease which is actually an immune disorder. Let’s be clear, it is not caused by shampoo. One could argue that different shampoos and products could aggravate it, but that is not proven, and has not been my own experience. Please don’t simplify the disease or spread misinformation about it.
Psoriasis can be chemically induced my grandfather battled it for years after a doctor caused it.
I keep getting rashes/eczema/psoriasis at various times from my “shower shoes” – sandals I wear IN the shower for no-slip and OUT to keep my feet clean ’till I can get to my room and lather lotion on them and cover w/socks.
I know they are from the shoes due to the areas the straps cover and the itchiness when I wear them, but I do notice it only happens when I break my diet and eat grains for a few weeks. Anti-fungal cream works, but it’s better to keep on the diet!!
So, I guess the grain-eating lowers my immune system and my weakest areas (the tops of my feet) get affected by whatever my DNA is pre-programmed to do!!
Yes?
A friend of mine had psoriasis for years and as soon as she cut out dairy, it completely went away. It might be genetic in some cases, but definitely not all!
Also, psoriasis has been around since biblical times, long before there were chemicals and shampoo.
Are you thinking of leprosy? I’ve never seen psoriasis mentioned in the Bible…what verse?
http://www.dermaharmony.com/psoriasis/psoriasishistory.aspx
I use primarily Melaleuca brand cleaning products and laundry supplies. Have to looked at their ingredients? Would love your opinion!
Hi Amy! This is a bit late, I know. I recently just looked at a friends Melaleuca cleaning products and even they have not so fantastic ingredients. The good ingredients are at the beginning but as soon as you go farther down the list, you see some pretty nasty things. I personally use Norwex laundry detergent and then white distilled vinegar for the softener. Hope this helps!
I have a whole category on my blog dedicated th the subject:)
http://www.howtohairgirl.com/category/no-poo-journey/
Care of the hair and care of the scalp skin may appear separate, but are actually intertwined because hair grows from beneath the skin. The living parts of hair (hair follicle, hair root, root sheath, and sebaceous gland) are beneath the skin, while the actual hair shaft which emerges (the cuticle which covers the cortex and medulla) has no living processes. Damage or changes made to the visible hair shaft cannot be repaired by a biological process, though much can be done to manage hair and ensure that the cuticle remains intact.*`
Remember to find out about our very own web page
http://www.calaguastourpackage.com/index.php
After reading your beauty posts I was shocked to go home and find my body lotion to contain multiple chemicals and even yellow5, red, and blue artificial colors! And the lotion is white for Pete’s sake!!! I went whole foods and spend about the same amount I would have spent on the chemical crap at target and instead got a large bottle of natural Shea and coconut butter lotion( fair trade, non GMO Shea and coconut) with like 6 ingredients in it….so much happier and my skin even feels better after a couple of uses. It really does make a difference and it doesn’t have to break the bank all the time.
Long time reader, first time commenter
Katie 🙂
Hi Katie – thanks for sharing your story. Good for you! So glad you like your new lotion…
Aveda uses many chemicals in their products. This is an instance where I have been duped. Very disappointing. I am having trouble finding products that are totally free of chemicals and carcinogens. Even John Masters shampoos and conditioners have some funky looking ingredients in them. I left the store (Whole Foods) empty handed because I was not convinced by any of the products. I’m looking for the least amount of ingredients and closest ingredients to nature. Any advice?
Hi Marie – look up your products here. http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ You can also look up specific ingredients if you have a question about them.
Fabulous information about hair products! I just learned about parabens and found that the shampoo and conditioner from Trader Joe’s that I’ve been using has them. So, finding this article is quite timely for me 😉
I love being able to come here and read about the research and investigation you have done. Thank you for all of this info!
A friend of mine just started selling her own product line of hair care. I would love to get your take on it!
http://salonsolids.com/
Do you still recommend these products for your hair? Thanks!
Yes
I bought the John Masters Organics for my hair on the recommendation of the beauty article above. They said no GMO’s sodium laurel sulfate, etc. and were good for color-treated hair, however, the shampoo streaked my hair. My stylist said it was because the shampoos have citric oils that strip the color. I brought the bottle to show her and she said some of the other ingredients looked suspicious like sodiium lauryl sulfoacetate, sodium sulfate and lots of other ingredients that don’t sound natural. My fault for not reading carefully, but maybe they aren’t bad. Any thoughts?
Sorry you had that experience. John Masters shampoos have good ratings as far as safety goes. You could call the company directly and ask them why they think that happened. You can also look up individual ingredients here. http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
I have been using products from Chagrin Valley for some time now. I LOVE their products. It is actually more like an obsession. I don’t want my money to go to any big company. I like supporting this family, and their products are amazing. I use it all and I couldn’t be happier.
http://www.chagrinvalleysoapandsalve.com/
Thanks for sharing!
Hello, there! I hope you’re still reading these comments!
My husband is on board with trying different products that are more natural, but he still hasn’t found a shampoo for dandruff that he likes, so he keeps going back to Head and Shoulders. We’ve tried a few different brands, including the John Masters Zinc & Sage shampoo (which smelled INCREDIBLE).
Do you have any reliable dandruff-control shampoos for men that are healthy to use?
Hi Michelle – you can look here…http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/browse/dandruff;;scalp+treatment/
Has he tried “washing” with baking soda (around 3 table spoons and a 1/2 cup of water, poured over head and scrubbed in) and then rinsing with organic apple cider vinegar? I have tried so many shampoos and I have always had an awfully itchy scalp and flakes. Since starting the baking soda/ACV, Ive been able to only wash my hair every 2-3 days and have had a healthier scalp!
I love using wonderful products from Young Living. No harsh chemicals and they all smell wonderful.
I have been using Alima products! Have you heard of them? They seem to be one of the safest from my research. Interested to hear what you think of them Food Babe!!
Thoughts on men thinning / balding? Perhaps using a little bit of Rogaine, but incorporating other forms of natural and holistic treatment?
Hi. Any product suggestions for my fine and thinning hair?
When you’re eating a lousy diet with too much fat, you’ll get cholesterol plaque deposits and thinning of the blood vessels that feed the hair follicles. Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in the B vitamins biotin and folate (folic acid). They’re found in a variety of foods: leafy green vegetables such as spinach, as well as oranges, rice, beans, peas, carrots, cauliflower, soybeans, bran, nuts, and eggs. http://www.thinhairgrowth.com
Hi there, thank you for all the wonderful information. Beside a product being chemical free, I’m also looking for a good one that is vegan and cruelty free so doesn’t test on animals. Do any of the products you suggested not test on animals?
Thank you, love your work.
http://www.100percentpure.com/100-Pure-Hair-Care-s/43.htm
Thank you:)
Arbonne products are certified vegan and have never tested on animals in their 33yr history!
That is so great! Thank you:)
What are your thoughts on Wen? The Chaz Dean product line?
Ana
I love Wen by Chaz Dean. I personally use all his products. The cleansing conditioner, body wash, body lotion, Wen for kids and Wen for Pets. My hair looks amazing. I’ve been using his products for about ten years and my hair has never looked or felt better.
I’d never use anything else for my hair!
I think Wen is full of chemicals. :-((
Wen…Cucumber Aloe Key Ingredients:
Cucumber Fruit Extract: soothing, cooling, nourishing & healing. It contains astringent properties, which help to relieve itching and inflammation. Rich in beneficial minerals and amino acids, cucumber moisturizes, smoothes and softens the skin and hair.
Organic Aloe Vera Leaf Juice: soothing, healing, moisturizing, antifungal, and antibacterial properties.
Rosemary Extract: amazing antioxidant properties, stimulates hair growth and fights scalp problems. Is known to increase circulation as it stimulates the hair follicles to renewed activity and prevent premature baldness.
Chamomile Extract: calming, soothing, with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. Also used for dry, flaky skin.
Marigold Extract: helpful as an antiseptic, healing wounds and reducing inflammation.
Menthol: has local anesthetic and counter-irritant qualities. Can also reduce itching and tenderness.
Witch Hazel: soothing, cooling, refreshing, softening. Contains astringent, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; relieving inflammation & scalp irritations.
Avocado Oil: rich, moisturizing properties, highly therapeutic on dry, sensitive skin; rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, E, Lecithin & Fatty Acids.
Sweet Almond Mint Key Ingredients:
Aloe Vera Gel: soothing, healing, moisturizing, anti-fungal, antibacterial properties.
Glycerin: provides moisturizing benefits, is one of the best known humectants and has natural moisturizing factors.
Chamomile Extract: calming, soothing, with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. Also used for dry, flaky skin.
Cherry Bark: brings out the color, shine and softness in all shades of natural and color-treated hair. It will help manageability of hair.
Calendula Extract: helpful as an antiseptic, healing wounds and reducing inflammation.
Rosemary Extract: It stimulates hair growth and fights scalp problems. Helps with premature baldness. Has amazing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties. Is a tonic, astringent, restorative herb.
Cetyl Alcohol: A fatty, moisturizing alcohol used as an emollient, emulsifier, thickener and carrying agent for other ingredients. Derived naturally from coconut.
Panthenol: acts as a penetrating moisturizer. Plumps & moisturizes hair shaft to make it appear thicker, reduces split ends, smoothes skin and strengthens hair as it seals in moisture.
PEG-60 Almond Glycerides: with anti-irritant qualities, it contributes conditioning and glide to hair, as well as a conditioned feel to skin.
Menthol: has a local anesthetic and counter-irritant quality. Can also reduce itching and tenderness.
Sweet Almond Oil: excellent emollient, high in protein and fatty acids, ideal in the treatment of very dry, chapped skin. Having antiseptic properties, it heals and nourishes as it moisturizes the skin & hair without leaving a greasy residue.
Tea Tree Key Ingredients:
Cetyl Alcohol: A fatty, moisturizing alcohol used as an emollient, emulsifier, thickener and carrying agent for other ingredients. Derived naturally from coconut.
Rosemary Extract: It stimulates hair growth and fights scalp problems. Helps with premature baldness. Has amazing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties. Is a tonic, astringent, restorative herb.
Wild Cherry Fruit Extact: soothing, anti-inflammatory.
Calendula Flower Extract: helpful as an antiseptic, healing wounds and reducing inflammation.
Panthenol Pro-Vitamin B-5: acts as a penetrating moisturizer. Plumps & moisturizes hair shaft to make it appear thicker, reduces split ends, smoothes skin and strengthens hair as it seals in moisture.
Menthol: has a local anesthetic and counter-irritant quality. Can also reduce itching and tenderness.
Tea Tree Oil: contains antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, healing & medicinal properties, ideal for relieving dandruff. Helps unclog hair follicles, encouraging the body’s own natural moisturizing oils, aiding in promoting healthy hair growth. Also great for shaving, cutting down on redness and swelling caused by most razors.
PEG-60 Almond Glycerides: with anti-irritant qualities, it contributes conditioning and glide to hair, as well as a conditioned feel to skin.
Fig Key Ingredients:
Glycerin: Provides moisturizing benefits, is one of the best known humectants and has natural moisturizing factors.
Cetyl Alcohol: A fatty, moisturizing alcohol used as an emollient, emulsifier, thickener and carrying agent for other ingredients. Derived naturally from coconut.
Rosemary Leaf Extract: It stimulates hair growth and fights scalp problems. Helps with premature baldness. Has amazing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties. Is a tonic, astringent, restorative herb.
Wild Cherry Fruit Extract: soothing, anti-inflammatory.
Fig Extract: rich, hydrating and moisturizing without weighing down the hair.
Chamomile Extract: calming, soothing, with antibiotic and anti- Inflammatory properties. Also used for dry, flaky skin.
Marigold Flower Extract: helpful as an antiseptic, healing wounds and reducing inflammation.
Cetearyl Alcohol: Cetyl and Cetearyl alcohol are structurally similar.
Panthenol Pro-Vitamin B-5: acts as a penetrating moisturizer. Plumps & moisturizes hair shaft to make it appear thicker, reduces split ends, smoothes skin and strengthens hair as it seals in moisture.
Menthol: has a local anesthetic and counter-irritant quality. Can also reduce itching and tenderness.
Sweet Almond Oil: excellent emollient, high in protein and fatty acids, ideal in the treatment of very dry, chapped skin. Having antiseptic properties, it heals and nourishes as it moisturizes the skin & hair without leaving a greasy residue.
PEG-60 Almond Glycerides: with anti-irritant qualities, it contributes conditioning and glide to hair, as well as a conditioned feel to skin.
Lavender Key Ingredients:
Glycerin: Provides moisturizing benefits, is one of the best known humectants and has natural moisturizing factors.
Cetyl Alcohol: A fatty, moisturizing alcohol used as an emollient, emulsifier, thickener and carrying agent for other ingredients. Derived naturally from coconut.
Rosemary Leaf Extract: It stimulates hair growth and fights scalp problems. Helps with premature baldness. Has amazing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties. Is a tonic, astringent, restorative herb.
Wild Cherry Fruit Extract: soothing, anti-inflammatory.
Fig Extract: rich, hydrating and moisturizing without weighing down the hair.
Chamomile Extract: calming, soothing, with antibiotic and anti- Inflammatory properties. Also used for dry, flaky skin.
Marigold Flower Extract: helpful as an antiseptic, healing wounds and reducing inflammation.
Cetearyl Alcohol: Cetyl and Cetearyl alcohol are structurally similar.
Panthenol Pro-Vitamin B-5: acts as a penetrating moisturizer. Plumps & moisturizes hair shaft to make it appear thicker, reduces split ends, smoothes skin and strengthens hair as it seals in moisture.
Menthol: has a local anesthetic and counter-irritant quality. Can also reduce itching and tenderness.
Sweet Almond Oil: excellent emollient, high in protein and fatty acids, ideal in the treatment of very dry, chapped skin. Having antiseptic properties, it heals and nourishes as it moisturizes the skin & hair without leaving a greasy residue.
PEG-60 Almond Glycerides: with anti-irritant qualities, it contributes conditioning and glide to hair, as well as a conditioned feel to skin.
My personal feeling is that if a company only provides a list of “Key Ingredients,” it is because they aren’t telling you something. I would email or call and ask for a FULL ingredient list.
What about the line Pureology? They claim to be vegan
In regards to hair dye, try Surya. It is from Brazil and all natural. It smells amazing. The only drawback is you cannot go lighter, since it does not have the ability to bleach your hair of it’s own color. I love it and since I have started using it my hair has gotten thicker.
Has anyone checked out Shea Moisture Moisture Retention Shampoo and Restorative Conditioner? The ingredients looked good to me with the exception of the Sugar Beets listed in the Shampoo. I’m wondering how critical non-GMO is for skincare? I feel like I’ve looked at most everything, and everything seems to have a downside. Trying to find the lesser of the evils.
Just noticed John Masters Organics also utilizes Decyl Glucoside, non organic. Wondering if the source is also sugar like that of Shea Moisture brand? Or maybe corn? Possibly also GMO.
What do you think of botanical keratin hair treatments? I got it done for the first time this summer and the results were amazing. I know there is 2% formaldehyde in it and the dangers associated with that ingredient.
Are there any natural, safer alternatives that yield the same results?
Any deep conditioning treatments that will make my hair softer and silkier? I’ve tried using olive oil & coconut oil and leaving it in my hair for hours before showering, but the results weren’t that impressive.
Btw, I’m already on a whole foods plant based diet for 3.5 years now and put chia seeds and ground flax seeds in daily organic green smoothie – so I got the diet part covered.
Any advice or comments would be great!
Jojoba is very good for the hair, and you can get organic jojoba for a fair price. It is actually a liquid wax, not an oil, but has amazing properties very different from any other product I have tried. You can use it as a conditioner after washing, put a few drops on your hands and rub through hair. Rinse as usual. Or you can use it dry by rubbing a drop on your comb. Makes your hair REALLY soft.
thanks for the info!
hi..i would like to know which vitamin should i be taking ? i have tried gnc,nature’s bounty (biotin) all proved nothing.. i ended up having alot of breakouts 🙁
i need help because my hair is thinning at a fast pace
please guide
thank you
I have had my cosmetology license for 20 years “this is the latest product line that I am researching — Surface
They are not listed on EWG’s website and are only available at specific salons, so you’ll have to ask for it!
**unless you have a friend in the business who can purchase supplies **
Sherry
http://www.surfacehair.com/Content/pdfs/whats_in_whats_out.pdf
Food Babe you are awesome!!!
Hi Vani, I just purchased the lavender and avocado intensive conditioner. Do you use this product every time you wash your hair or less often? I wash my hair every other day, so just wondering if this product might be too heavy. Thank you!!
Have you ever heard of the Honest Company? They have all kinds of products that according the the EWG site are below a 3. I have never tried them but found them online and was wondering if anyone has tried their products,..
Hi Food Babe! I love all of your posts and recipes! You are such an inspiration to lead a more natural and healthy lifestyle ( I just made the Almond Butter Brownies today). THANK YOU 🙂 I was out shopping today looking for a more natural hand soap (I wish I had read your posts before I went to the grocery store). I ended up buying a brand called Dr.Bronners hand & body soap. Have you heard of it? After reading your recommendations I was wondering how safe the one I bought was because it mentions you can use it for body soap, hair shampoo, etc. If you have heard of the brand and have any opinions on it, please let me know. Thanks!
I have used Dr. Bronners before, I use their lip balm too. The only thing you’ll notice with it (or maybe it is just at our house since FL has hard water) is that is leaves white soap scum in the tub and sinks. It can sometimes feel like you have a film on your skin. Again, it may be different for you if you have softer water. It is an excellent brand though-they have a great line up of products and my hubby uses it still. He likes that the fragrances are light and natural. A big container lasts a long time too so it’s economical.
Food Babe I ordered the Avalon Organics shampoo that you recommended. When I received it I read the ingredients label and noticed it contains Sodium Sulfate. Is this ingredient ok? Why is this shampoo better than all the others that contain sulfates? How can the company claim to be sulfate free when it’s not?
Each product has a different ingredient list – check ewg.org for all the info on safe cosmetic ingredients.
I have looked at Avalon ‘Organics’ in the past, but their ingredient list is NOT representative of their name. Are you getting kick backs to support some of the products you endorse? Just wondering, because I notice sometimes you will recommend something that is really not so great…..
That said, with respect, I love what you do and that you get people who ‘matter’ and can change things to listen to you. Keep it up!!!!
Nope – no kick backs , other than my amazon affiliate link. Like I said in the post, the peppermint shampoo that I like is rated a 2 on ewg.org – when in doubt, always check the database of ingredients on their site!
I’ll have to find that one, the ones available here rank more than 4. Currently using Yes To Carrots, which is slightly better.
Am I missing something? I don’t see an Avalon peppermint shampoo with a 2 rating. http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/search.php?query=avalon+peppermint+shampoo
Food Babe,
What about Wen–the cleansing “shampoo” that claims to be all natural?
Leah
I also use Wen Cleansing Conditioner, Wen Body Wash, Wen Body Lotion, Wen for Pets, and Wen for Kids.
I absolutely love Chaz’s products and can’t imagine using anything else for my hair and body. I personally don’t think that his products are over priced because they literally replace so many products I use to use in my hair. I’ve been using Wen for around ten years. My hair is healthy, shiny, has lots of volume…no frizz, no fly-away, no split-ends. It grows so fast and because it’s not harsh my colour/red lasts for months and months. I use to have to colour every six weeks. Wen also works great for shaving your legs! I also love to use it occasionally on my face during the winter months when the inside air seems to be a little drier.
My furbabies have never looked better too. It’s very shiny and healthy. I have dogs that are known for skin problems….with Wen….no problems at all! No problems with mats in my Shih Tzu’s. My Westies skin problems and skin allergies are a thing of the past.
I use BareMinerals by BareEscentuals for makeup. I’ve used their products since 1994. I also use their facial cleanser and moisturizer. Would never use any other make-up product.
What about the Alba natural haircare? The shampoo and Conditioner?
My 11 year old sweet daughter suffers from horrible scalp psoriasis and I just do not know what else to do. I’ve tried everything I know! I went to web md and all the things they recommend have to do with horrible chemicals I would never put on her precious little head! I know if we go to the doctor , they are going to say meds. Do you have any recommendations? Thanks Food Babe! I’m new to all this natural stuff!
A friend of mine had psoriasis for years and then finally cut out all dairy and it went away completely! It’s worth a try…
Thank you so much for posting this! As someone who has suffered from migraines and rashes from various skin and hair products I know just how important this is!! Have you heard of Young Living Essential Oils? They offer therapeutic grade organic essential oils and products — including hair care that I have switched to and am loving. I’ve been using the oils since I was a baby for all natural health and wellness – I think you would absolutely love them! If you wanted to find out more let me know. Keep up the fabulous work, dear! Sending you lots of love. xoxo
Our family uses Ava Anderson Non Toxic. No harmful chemicals, no SLS, parabens, great shampoo and conditioner.
hey sweet babe,
are you kidding, right? This shampoos that you are saying are your favorite are full of chemicals. Are you for profit too, now??????
Ever since I had my hair bleached a few years ago, I get horrible dandruff. I’m in denial on the fact that it could be psoriasis. :/
However, the only shampoo and conditioner that keep it away is KMS California. Everything natural I’ve tried doesn’t work, and I’ve gone through many brands. Any suggestions on what to try?
I have seborrheic dermatitis, and my issue is that natural/organic natural shampoos don’t clean my hair well enough because of it! My scalp gets itchy too. It seems only shampoos with sodium lauryl sulfate will strip my hair enough, and I know that’s not a good ingredient. I know harsher shampoos are supposed to make you product my oil but I have not found that true with my scalp issue. If I use a natural/organic shampoo for an extended period of time my scalp is terrible! Any suggestions Food Babe?
I have been struggling with bumps on and around my forehead and outside of my face where shampoo drips down for years. I have used every shampoo in the books . Everything thang is all natural and still have bumps. Even used all natural products such as “bamboo” but I don’t trust anything– anymore and the all natural products leave my hair full of tangles!! What is your number 1 suggestion that cleans and smooths the best?
I LOVE Giovanni’s Tea Tree Triple Treat Shampoo and Conditioner. It feels so right and good! 🙂
I am interested in your opinion on Susanne Somers products.
We have been checking the EWG site for lots of ratings on things. We use California Baby or Honest Company on the kids an or ourselves…or Dr Mercolas Brand of Shampoo/Conditioner. We do lots of DIY stuff too….I have yet to do a homemade no poo recipe an would like to soon in the near future…but Im comfortable having some items for those days that you run out, or have a sitter, or away from home etc. I love all the investigating Vani does…an she as well as a few others have helped us be more aware, healthy an choose wisely what we put in and on our bodies! Love trying to be more healthy an learning new things!
Hi Vani,
I have been using Burt’s Bees on my kids, after reading your posts this week and researching, I need to stop and find something new. Do you have any recommendations for toddlers and infants? Like an all in one hair/body wash? I’ve also used Yes to Carrots in the past, but I need to find something really safe for them. My boys are always getting soap in their eyes and swallowing it. Please advise. Thanks.