Washing your hair is probably something that you don’t give much thought to on a regular basis. But as you might suspect, the ingredients that go into an average bottle of commercial hair product are far from natural. Lots of brands are starting to market their products as “all-natural” without much explanation of what that really means.
So, next time, you’re shopping for a new bottle of shampoo, condition, or gel, here are 10 ingredients to look for on the back of the label. If you’re browsing DIY recipes for hair products, you’ll probably find a few of these on the ingredient lists as well. Each of these natural ingredients has excellent health benefits for the hair and are much gentler on damaged strands than chemically-laced alternatives.
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is one of the most popular natural ingredients for hair properties because of its hydrating and shine-boosting capabilities. As an emollient, this oil seals in moisture and helps to keep hair strong. It is commonly used in both wash-out and leave-in hair conditioners for individuals with thick and textured hair styles.
2. Olive Oil
Commonly found in the kitchen pantry, extra virgin olive oil is often used as a deep, leave-in conditioner for hair. It helps to seal in moisture and keep hair strands soft and touchable. Seagate’s 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil has not been subjected to any heat or chemicals and is pure and safe to use on hair.
3. Shea Butter
Shea butter is another great ingredient in natural hair products because it is an emollient. This means that it adds a layer of natural oil to the surface of strands of hair, which helps to retain moisture throughout the day. Shea butter is also high in fatty acids, which help to nourish dry hair.
4. Aloe Vera
While you might think of using aloe vera more for sunburns, it’s also a great ingredient for your hair products. It is commonly found in natural shampoos and conditioners to help hair grow and stop falling out. It may help to apply aloe vera during a scalp massage to condition the hair and promote growth. This plant contains a natural enzyme believed to stimulate hair follicles and also treat scalp conditions.
5. Honey
Sweet and sticky honey might sound too messy to put on your hair, but it’s actually a common ingredient in natural product recipes. That’s because honey has antibacterial properties and is also a humectant that prevents moisture loss.
6. Jojoba Oil
Anyone who struggles with split ends can benefit from a little jojoba oil in a natural hair product. This oil helps restore health to damaged hair and give it a natural shine. It’s non-greasy and often used to balance out oil production to prevent oily hair.
7. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is often associated with a healthy immune system, but it’s also a key component in having healthy hair. This vitamin helps to protect the hair against free radicals and also aids the absorption of iron. Individuals with anemia and low iron levels sometimes have issues with thinning, dull hair.
8. Biotin
Another healthy hair vitamin is biotin, also referred to as vitamin B7. People with thinning hair due to age or a medical condition should look for natural hair products that contain this vitamin. It’s a key ingredient in keeping hair thick and voluminous.
9. Avocado Oil
Avocados are a source of healthy fats in your diet, so it should come as no surprise that they promote healthy hair too. Avocados and their oil contain vitamins A, D, E and potassium, all of which are great for the hair. Avocado oil is also easily absorbed into the skin, so it’s beneficial to gently rub it into your scalp.
10. Oatmeal
For both eating and washing your hair, oatmeal has a place in your morning routine. Oatmeal is high in protein and B vitamins, and the starches and beta-glucan it contains help retain moisture. You can make a DIY dry shampoo with finely-ground oatmeal powder and a bit of baking soda. This is a great for days when you’re in a rush and don’t have time to wash your hair or if your hair gets greasy over the course of a day.