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<h3 style="text-align: center;">It’s been just over a century since the first commercial shampoo was invented by Kasey Hebert in 1914. But since that time, we’ve gone from creating a pH-balanced formula in the 1930s to creating numerous solutions that claim to prevent the damage caused by the advances in shampoo technology.</h3><p style="text-align: center;"> But as new inventions lead to more and more shampoos relying on ingredients created in labs, we’re getting further and further away from what’s healthy and natural. In fact, the hair industry – both commercially and individually – <a href="https://theconversation.com/change-the-way-you-wash-your-hair-to-help-save-the-environment-111113" target="_self">has created a considerable carbon footprint over time</a>.</p><p>We know that nourishing your scalp is so important. There are easy ways to take care of your scalp like using a <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/accessories/scalp-brush/" target="_self">scalp brush</a> to stimulate blood flow and remove product build-up. (Here are a few tips on <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2020/05/06/scalp-exfoliation-why-how-how-often/" target="_self">how to exfoliate your scalp</a>!) While caring for your scalp is an important part of any hair care routine, are we unknowingly washing our scalps with products that do more harm than good?</p><h4>SHAMPOO'S ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT</h4><p>It seems innocent enough – a product designed to clean your hair. It removes the dirt and oil, leaving your hair shiny and full of life. But is shampoo bad for the environment? Well, if you read the ingredients on the back of a shampoo bottle, you might be surprised. Many shampoos are filled with harmful chemicals you’ve never heard of and aren’t able to pronounce. These chemicals may not only be harmful to you, but they can also harm the environment. Plus, they strip your hair of natural oils, forcing you to purchase a separate, often equally harmful condition to replenish the oils you’ve lost. </p><p>In addition to harmful-for-everyone chemicals, many shampoos are sold in plastic bottles that are often only partially or totally unrecyclable. These bottles have already caused a tremendous amount of waste and done extensive damage to our planet. They’re dumped in our landfills and oceans, harming our atmosphere and our wildlife while they take thousands of years to decompose. </p><h4>SHAMPOO POLLUTION: HOW DOES SHAMPOO POLLUTE THE WATER?</h4><p>Unfortunately, shampoos have done lasting damage to our water supply in two major ways: their ingredients and the plastic containers that hold them. </p><p>One of the major environmental impacts of shampoo comes from the simple act of rinsing your hair. As the shampoo leaves your hair, the chemicals are sent down your drain and out into the water supply. These chemicals have been found in a variety of environments, including wastewater, surface water, sediment, groundwater, and drinking water. </p><p>Luckily, our drinking water is treated so you’re not ingesting those chemicals (another process that can be harmful to the environment), but our lakes, rivers, and oceans are not. <a href="https://www.epa.gov/wqc/contaminants-emerging-concern-including-pharmaceuticals-and-personal-care-products" target="_self">These chemicals can harm both aquatic life</a> and the animals that drink from these bodies of water. Research has shown that the chemicals in personal care products can change the hormone levels in aquatic organisms, which can cause a variety of health problems, including damaging their ability to reproduce. </p><p>Then there are the plastic bottles used to hold your shampoo. Many of them are either only partially recyclable or cannot be recycled, so they end up in our oceans and landfills.<a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/environment/2018/08/5-reasons-ditch-your-shampoo-bottle-shampoo-bar" target="_self">About nine million tons of plastic are thrown into the ocean annually,</a> which is about one garbage truck of plastic every minute. These plastics can survive in water for thousands of years if they’re not consumed by marine life. When they are ingested, the chemicals in the plastic can injure or poison the animals. Those that don’t make their way into the bodies of these animals become floating waste, serving as transportation vehicles for invasive species, which can upset and damage very delicate habitats. </p><p>Dumping plastic in a landfill is equally dangerous. As they’re buried deeper into the pile and begin to decompose slowly, they can leach dangerous chemicals that eventually make their way into our groundwater and our air.<br/></p>

<h4>WHAT INGREDIENTS SHOULD BE AVOIDED IN SHAMPOO?</h4>
<p>Shampoos can contain a wide variety of ingredients that can be harmful to you and the environment. While some of these ingredients seem innocent enough, they’re often misleading. Carefully reading all labels will help you determine whether or not your shampoo is safe. </p>

<ul><li><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Most companies use this word as a catch-all for what could be a long list of <a href="https://www.ewg.org/enviroblog/2007/12/ask-ewg-what-fragrance" target="_self">potentially harmful chemicals</a>. Legally, thanks to an FDA loophole, companies can name almost any ingredient as “fragrance” if they claim it’s part of their trade-secret formula. Without knowing the specific chemicals involved, these could do damage to you (skin irritation, asthma, cancer, etc.) and the environment. But natural fragrances, such as the ones we use at Hairstory, are comprised of 100% natural, essential oils and are actually good for your hair. Get the lowdown on <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/28/natural-vs-synthetic-fragrance/" target="_self">natural vs. synthetic fragrance</a> here.</li><li><strong>Synthetic colors:</strong> While they may make your shampoo look pretty, synthetic colors are made from petroleum or coal-tar sources, which can be harmful to yourself and the environment.</li><li><strong>Parabens:</strong>Parabens are used to preserve the shelf life of many shampoos. But recently, scientists have begun to question their safety. In humans, <a href="https://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/news/20151027/parabens-breast-cancer#1" target="_self">they’ve been connected to increased growth of breast cancer cells</a>. They can kill coral and have been found in surface waters, marine mammals, fish, and sediments. The best decision is to switch to a paraben-free shampoo (like New Wash)!</li><li><strong>1,4 Dioxane:</strong> This clear liquid is often found in paint strippers, dyes, varnishes. But it’s also found in body washes and shampoo! It’s the ingredient that makes your products sudsy. <a href="https://www.motherjones.com/environment/2017/09/is-your-shampoo-poisoning-your-drinking-water/" target="_self">This synthetic product isn’t easily biodegradable</a>, and it’s considered a “likely human carcinogen” that can harm your liver, kidney, and central nervous system. It’s also considered toxic to aquatic plants and invertebrates. Dioxane has been found in the drinking water in 45 out of 50 states, and you cannot filter it out with a home filter. What’s more, because the FDA doesn’t require companies to list contaminants in their products’ ingredients, it’s difficult to know if it’s in your shampoo.</li><li><strong>Methylisothiazolinone:</strong> <a href="https://www.ewg.org/childrenshealth/22374/coming-soon-store-near-you-ewg-verified-hair-care" target="_self">A hazardous preservative</a> that can cause allergic reactions and may poison the nervous system.</li><li><strong>Triclosan (TCS):</strong> Although this was banned from being used in antibacterial soaps in 2016, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B978012398254400008X" target="_self">it’s still allowed in shampoo</a> (as well as toothpaste and deodorant). When combined with chlorine in tap water to form chloroform, a possible human carcinogen. It’s also known to cause hormone disruptions, which can lead to cancer and affect fetal development, among other things. TCS can harm algae and can cause reproductive and developmental delays in fish and their eggs.</li></ul><h4>THE TRUTH ABOUT SULFATES IN SHAMPOO</h4><p>You may have heard or read about sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) and believe that you need to avoid these ingredients. These two chemicals are considered surfactants – it’s what makes your shampoo lather or foam up when you rub it into your hair. They’re also found in toothpaste and foaming cleansers.</p><p>The truth is, you should stay away from sulfates. These products’ chemicals can irritate your skin, causing severe skin irritation and possible itchy rashes. They also dry out your hair, causing weakened, broken hair strands and split ends. Read more about why you should <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2019/01/15/get-sulfates-out-your-life-and-your-hair/" target="_self">get sulfates out of your life and your hair</a>.</p><h4>WHAT SHAMPOO IS BEST FOR THE ENVIRONMENT?</h4><p>Being conscious of shampoo's environmental impact and selecting a shampoo that is good for the environment involves a careful review of the ingredients list as well as considering the packaging. </p><h5>Look for eco-friendly shampoos that use all-natural ingredients such as essential oils and natural minerals. Every ingredient should be clearly listed with scents and colors from fruit and plant extracts, not a vague term like “fragrance.” </h5><p>Avoid shampoos that have any of the ingredients included in the list above. But be aware that even all-natural, plant-based ingredients can cause an allergic reaction, so read all ingredients carefully to avoid any known allergens.</p><p>Some ingredients that aren’t considered toxic to humans or animals can still be harmful to the environment. One such ingredient is palm oil, a type of vegetable oil used to help restore the hair’s natural oils. Palm oil grows in tropical rainforests, and because of its low cost, many of these forests have been damaged beyond repair. The devastating loss of these entire ecosystems has contributed to climate change, affected local communities, and caused endangered species, such as orangutans, tigers, elephants, to lose their homes. We recommend avoiding products with palm oil unless you know how the product was sourced.</p><p>When it comes to packaging, find shampoos that aren’t sold in plastic bottles. <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/02/25/benefits-of-using-refillable-shampoo-bottles/" target="_blank">Reusable shampoo bottles</a> (ours are <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/accessories/new-wash-bottle/" target="_self">refillable aluminum canisters</a>, available in 20 oz. and 30 oz. sizes) are an excellent way to minimize your plastic consumption. Purchasing products that both wash and condition your hair, like our sulfate-free shampoo alternative, <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/new-wash/" target="_self">New Wash</a>, is another way to cut down on packaging waste. </p>

<h4>IS DRY SHAMPOO BAD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT?</h4>
<p>If you’re unfamiliar, dry shampoo is a powder-like product that can be sprinkled (or sprayed) onto your hair to remove oils or sweat and give you a fresh, clean look without needing to wash or rinse – or even shower. But, although the idea of spending extra time catching up on much-need sleep instead of washing and drying your hair in the morning sounds great, some dry shampoos are actually very harmful to the environment. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wired.com/2015/05/whats-inside-dry-shampoo/">Dry shampoos often contain a harmful combination of talc</a> (which has been linked to cancer), butane and propane (items more commonly used for your gas grill), and fragrance (which, we’ve already learned, can be any combination of harmful chemicals). Plus, it’s usually packaged in an aerosol can. While these cans no longer contain the same environmentally-harmful ingredients as those hairspray cans of previous generations, they’re powered by butane and propane, two highly flammable ingredients. All in all, not a good idea for you or the environment.</p>

<p>But, there is some good news. Not all dry shampoos are the same. If you want the benefits of a dry shampoo without increasing your risk for cancer or potentially setting your hair on fire, you can find ones without these harmful ingredients. Our dry shampoo, <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/styling/powder/">Powder</a>, is talc-free and comes in a non-aerosol bottle, eliminating all harm to you and the environment. </p><h4>IS HAIR CONDITIONER BAD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT?</h4>
<p>Many of the ingredients that are harmful in shampoos can also be found in conditioners. Parabens are also used as preservatives in conditioners. So is TCS, which is used to prevent bacteria growth. Unknown chemicals included under the vague term of “fragrances” are found in conditioners as well. </p>
<p>However, if you want to condition your hair, there are many natural, inexpensive ways to do so on your own:</p><ul><li><strong>Apple cider vinegar:</strong> Although this is not bad for the environment, be aware that it can sting if it gets into your eyes. To create a conditioner out of apple cider vinegar, mix one to two tablespoons with a pint of water.  </li><li><strong>Raw eggs and tea:</strong>Pour onto hair, work through and rinse.</li><li><strong>Essential oils:</strong> Coconut oil, safflower oil, rosemary oil, and others can be used to add natural oils back into the hair and scalp after shampooing. Add just a few drops – a little goes a long way – then rinse.</li></ul>

<h4>MINIMIZING YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT</h4>
<p>In addition to using environmentally-friendly shampoos, dry shampoos, and conditioners for your hair, there are other steps you can take to reduce the environmental impact of your hair care routine. </p><h5>Wash less often, conserve water</h5>
<p>Obviously, washing your hair means more time spent in the shower, which means using more water. One way to cut back on water consumption and help the planet is to wash your hair less often. Not only are fewer chemicals going down the drain if you’re using an eco-friendly shampoo, but less water is going down the drain as well. Here are more ideas of <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/02/25/going-green-making-your-shower-eco-friendly/" target="_blank">how to be more eco-friendly</a> in your shower routine.</p>

<p>If your immediate response is to argue that your hair gets too dirty or oily if you don’t wash it daily, start slow. Begin by going to every other day, getting your hair used to the idea of skipping some time in between shampoos. On the “no-wash days,” try an updo – a cute bun, loose braids or even a simple ponytail – to avoid the fear that your hair will look dirty and limp. If you’re still struggling with oiliness, get ideas for <a href="https://www.hairstory.com/blog/what-is-your-oily-scalp-telling-you/" target="_blank">oily scalp</a> remedies here. </p>
<p>Once your hair has gotten used to skipping a day, try two. Create a routine where day one (the wash day) is the day you wear your hair down. On day two, use dry shampoo to absorb some of the oil and add volume for a cute half-up/half-down hairstyle. And, for day three, throw it in a bun or ponytail. Continue to challenge yourself and see if you can get to the point where you only need to wash your hair twice a week.</p><h5>Turn down the heat when you wash your hair</h5>
<p>It’s not only the amount of water you use that’s important, it’s also the heat of the water. Hot water consumes a lot of energy, which increases your carbon footprint. Plus, really hot water opens your pores, removing a lot of the natural bacteria that help keep our skin healthy and able to fight off the bad bacteria. By washing your hair in warm water, not only are you reducing your carbon footprint, but you’re also keeping yourself healthy. Plus, it’ll save you money on your electrical bill. Try it for a month, and if you haven’t gotten used to the cooler temperature, perhaps the lower electric bill will be enough to convince you to make a permanent switch. </p><h5>Be stingy with your products</h5>
<p>We’re not just talking about shampoo here. Whether it’s body wash, hair products, or lotion, try cutting back a little. It’s likely that you’re using much more than you need. Take some time to figure out the exact amount you should use to get desired results, and then stick to that amount each and every time. Not only will this help your wallet, but it will also put fewer pollutants (non-recyclable containers, harmful chemicals) into our landfills and water supply. </p><h5>Conserve, even on vacation</h5>
<p>A weekend getaway or a luxurious week to forget about the pressure of daily life doesn’t mean you should throw away the good habits you’ve created at home. Stick to your conservationist ways while staying at a hotel. This doesn’t only apply to your hair care routine; make a conscious effort to reuse your towels and sheets as well. </p><h5>Spread the word</h5>
<p>Once you’ve settled into a new routine and are both confident and comfortable with your environmental efforts, share your strategy with others. Your friends and family may not be aware of the simple things they can do to help save the planet. Offer to be their support and accountability buddy as they work to change. Then, encourage them to reach out to others. One person’s effort can multiply, making a large impact on our environment. </p>
<p>* * *</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Sources:</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Denise Baden Associate Professor in Business Ethics. “Change the Way You Wash Your Hair to Help Save the Environment.” <em>The Conversation</em>, 12 Jan. 2021, <a href="http://theconversation.com/change-the-way-you-wash-your-hair-to-help-save-the-environment-111113." target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">“Contaminants of Emerging Concern Including Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products.” <em>EPA</em>, Environmental Protection Agency, 1 Sept. 2020, <a href="http://www.epa.gov/wqc/contaminants-emerging-concern-including-pharmaceuticals-and-personal-care-products" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">HALE, Photograph by REBECCA. “5 Reasons to Ditch Your Shampoo Bottle for a Shampoo Bar.” <em>National Geographic</em>, 5 Nov. 2020, <a href="http://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/environment/2018/08/5-reasons-ditch-your-shampoo-bottle-shampoo-bar" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Thomson, Amy. “Is Your Shampoo Poisoning Your Drinking Water?” <em>Mother Jones</em>, 7 Sept. 2017, <a href="http://www.motherjones.com/environment/2017/09/is-your-shampoo-poisoning-your-drinking-water/" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Ewg. “Coming Soon to a Store Near You: EWG VERIFIED™ Hair Care.” <em>EWG</em>, 19 Dec. 2018, <a href="http://www.ewg.org/childrenshealth/22374/coming-soon-store-near-you-ewg-verified-hair-care" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Hontela, Alice, and Hamid R. Habibi. “Personal Care Products in the Aquatic Environment: A Case Study on the Effects of Triclosan in Fish.” <em>Fish Physiology</em>, Academic Press, 3 Dec. 2013, <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B978012398254400008X" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Sneed, Annie. “What's Inside Dry Shampoo? Alcohol, Petroleum, and Clay.” <em>Wired</em>, Conde Nast, 6 June 2017, <a href="http://www.wired.com/2015/05/whats-inside-dry-shampoo/" target="_blank">URL</a></p>

How Shampoo Impacts the Environment

refillable_shampoo_bottles_thumbnail.png

<h4 style="text-align: center;">We go through approximately 16 bottles of shampoo & conditioner every year.&nbsp;</h4>
<p style="text-align: center;">These plastic bottles are used once and then discarded, often thrown in the trash instead of the recycling can. Why? Well,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/19/climate/plastic-pollution-study-science-advances.html">many of the plastic bottles</a>&nbsp;that hold shampoo and conditioner are only partially or totally unrecyclable. But&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/woodmackenzie/2019/09/02/will-aluminium-cans-replace-plastic-bottles/?sh=44078dcf12a0">when they are recyclable</a>, we often throw them away in the most convenient place – the bathroom garbage can.</p>

<p>In fact, we only recycle&nbsp;9%&nbsp;of our plastic! That’s right,&nbsp;<strong>nine percent</strong>. But we do put more than that in our recycling bins. What happens to those plastics? Shockingly, 70% of the plastic that’s collected for recycling is never actually recycled.&nbsp;So, out of the 91% of plastic that’s thrown away, about 12% is incinerated, and 79% is tossed into landfills or the natural environment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Clearly, it’s time for a change. Instead of trying to figure out how we can make sure more plastic is recycled, we can begin to reduce or eliminate the need for it. There are easy ways to do just that, such as&nbsp;switching to reusable, refillable shampoo bottles.</p>
<h5>WHY ARE PLASTIC SHAMPOO BOTTLES SO BAD?</h5>
<p>After a plastic product has been used and tossed into a landfill, it’ll continue to do damage.</p>
<h4>The plastic that’s sitting in our landfills can take up to 1,000 years to decompose, and in the process, it’s leaking toxic chemicals into the atmosphere, soil, waterways, and ocean.&nbsp;</h4>
<p>In other words, our plastic shampoo and conditioner bottles are doing tremendous harm to us, other living beings on land and in the water, and to our environment.</p>

<p>In addition, the majority of the plastic that’s ever been made is still very slowly decaying.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/19/climate/plastic-pollution-study-science-advances.html">It’s estimated that about 6.3 billion metric tons of plastic</a>&nbsp;have been thrown away since 1950. Of that amount, about 4.9 billion metric tons are still in landfills or throughout our environment. It’s estimated that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/2019/06/partner-content-ocean-of-hope-in-a-shampoo-bottle/">if the trend continues</a>, by 2050 there will be about 12 billion metric tons of plastic waste in landfills or in the natural environment,&nbsp;and there will be more plastic, by weight, in our oceans than fish. Additionally,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-10-16/aluminum-crushing-plastic-in-the-battle-for-the-greener-bottle">most of this discarded waste has caused $2.2 trillion a year</a>&nbsp;worth of environmental and social damage.&nbsp;</p>
<p>But, it’s not only the after-life of single-use plastic that’s concerning to environmentalists, it’s also the production. About <a href="https://www.fastcompany.com/90412294/the-future-of-packaging-could-be-as-simple-as-a-bar-of-soap">300 million tons of plastic are produced each year</a>. The production alone causes damage to ourselves, wildlife, marine life, and the environment. Plastic is made from oil or natural gas, also called fossil fuels. Once it’s removed from the earth, it must be refined. Both the removal and the refining can release toxic chemicals, polluting the air, water, soil, etc.</p>

<p>Now you know the effects of plastic on the environment but have you ever wondered&nbsp;<a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/02/25/how-shampoo-impacts-the-environment/">how shampoo impacts the environment</a>? Unfortunately, some ingredients in shampoo can be unsafe, not only for you but also for the earth.</p>

<h5>WHY SHOULD YOU REFILL SHAMPOO BOTTLES?</h5>
<p>Made out of aluminum, reusable shampoo bottles do much less harm to ourselves, other living beings, and the environment. There are many benefits of using refillable shampoo bottles and we’ll break down a few of them for you here.</p>
<p>Admittedly, producing aluminum isn’t that much more eco-friendly than producing plastic. Aluminum is made by extracting refining mined bauxite ore – an expensive and energy-consuming practice. But, aluminum bottles can act as a dispenser that can be filled and refilled over and over again without losing their shape.</p>

<p>It’s not only that aluminum bottles can be used multiple times; aluminum’s after-life is exponentially better than a plastic bottle. When an aluminum product is finished, <a href="https://bar-none.co/blogs/bar-none/aluminium-the-infinitely-recyclable-material">it can be recycled repeatedly without losing any volume</a> or quality during the recycling process. So if 100% of the aluminum that was recycled is still there, then that shampoo or conditioner bottle can once again be turned into a reusable bottle without needing any new material. <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/woodmackenzie/2019/09/02/will-aluminium-cans-replace-plastic-bottles/?sh=44078dcf12a0">Aluminum is one of the world’s most recycled materials</a>, and, even better, recycling it takes 90% less energy than it would to make it from scratch.</p>
<p>As an added bonus, it’s usually cheaper. Companies can use less plastic to make containers that hold the reusable shampoo or conditioner because these containers won’t need to be as hard and durable as a container that must withstand daily water pressure and incorporate an easy-to-pour design. The savings of using less plastic are then passed on to you, the consumer.</p>

<h5>THE PROBLEM WITH REFILLABLE SHAMPOO BOTTLES</h5>
<p>Sounds great, right? So why are there problems? </p>
<p>Currently, the two major problems with refillable bottles are price and where/how to refill them. The majority of refills are available at refill stations, which aren’t always convenient for people. In fact, refill stations aren’t even available in most towns – they’re typically found in big cities. And, the brands that offer a refill station are usually selling high-end products found in luxury department stores, something that isn’t affordable to everyone. </p>
<p>Between the lack of convenience and a high price point, using refillable bottles is simply out of reach for many people. Instead, many choose to buy in bulk, reducing the amount of waste as best they can. </p>

<h5>HOW CAN YOU REFILL A SHAMPOO BOTTLE?</h5>

<p>Currently, one of the best ways to refill shampoo and conditioner bottles, regardless of where you live, is to order refills online and have them delivered to your home. You can order refillable shampoo containers online through a variety of sites. We sell our <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/accessories/new-wash-bottle/">20 oz. aluminum canisters</a> for $10 each. </p>
<p>When looking for refillable shampoo and conditioner containers, don’t forget to do the math. Add up the product and shipping costs as well as how frequently you’ll need to order to determine if the price is actually affordable. For example, with our <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/refill-club/">Refill Club</a>, in addition to receiving the refillable shampoo canister for free, you’ll save up to 15% on refill pouches. The club allows you to decide how often you’d like to receive a 20-oz or 32-oz refill pouch, and they’re automatically sent to your home with free shipping. </p>

<h5>OTHER WAYS TO SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT WHILE CLEANING YOUR HAIR </h5>
<p>If you’re looking to refill shampoo bottles because of the environmental impact, odds are you’ll find the brands that sell these products are eco-conscious in other ways. Some may contribute to environmental organizations like 1% for the Planet, where, like us, they donate a meaningful share of their sales to water-focused sustainability non-profits. </p>
<p>Other companies may choose to reduce their global footprint by sourcing the most environmentally-friendly packaging available for their refill containers. Currently, our refills come in pouches that use 69% less plastic, energy, and water to produce than bottles. Members of our Refill Club use 91% less plastic and 82% less CO2 to wash and condition their hair. </p>
<p>As an additional benefit to you and the environment, you’ll also find companies who exclude unpronounceable, harmful chemicals. If you’re washing and rinsing your hair with parabens, fragrances, synthetic colors, sulfates, and other dangerous chemicals, they’re sent down your drain and out into the water supply. They’ll end up in a variety of environments, including wastewater, surface water, sediment, groundwater, and drinking water. But many companies that sell shampoo and conditioner in reusable bottles use all-natural ingredients in their products. Look for those that are made with essential oils and natural minerals, as well as ones that are biodegradable, like our <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/new-wash/">New Wash</a>.</p>
<p>Look for other ways to ditch the plastic and use refillable aluminium bottles for things like a soap dispenser, cleaning product, or body wash.</p>
<p>Whatever additional benefits you may find, we applaud all individuals and companies who share our passion for the environment and take meaningful steps to improve their carbon footprint.</p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><sub>* * *</sub></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><sub>Sources:</sub></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><sub>Schlossberg, Tatiana. “The Immense, Eternal Footprint Humanity Leaves on Earth: Plastics.” <em>The New York Times</em>, The New York Times, 19 July 2017, <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/19/climate/plastic-pollution-study-science-advances.html">URL</a></sub></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><sub>Mackenzie, Wood. “Will Aluminium Cans Replace Plastic Bottles?” <em>Forbes</em>, Forbes Magazine, 2 Sept. 2019, <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/woodmackenzie/2019/09/02/will-aluminium-cans-replace-plastic-bottles/?sh=44078dcf12a0">URL</a></sub></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><sub>Schlossberg, Tatiana. “The Immense, Eternal Footprint Humanity Leaves on Earth: Plastics.” <em>The New York Times</em>, The New York Times, 19 July 2017, <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/19/climate/plastic-pollution-study-science-advances.html">URL</a></sub></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><sub>Brennan, Katy. “An Ocean of Hope in a Shampoo Bottle.” <em>Environment</em>, National Geographic, 10 Feb. 2021, <a href="http://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/2019/06/partner-content-ocean-of-hope-in-a-shampoo-bottle/">URL</a></sub></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><sub><em>Bloomberg.com</em>, Bloomberg, <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-10-16/aluminum-crushing-plastic-in-the-battle-for-the-greener-bottle">URL</a></sub></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><sub>Segran, Elizabeth. “The Future of Packaging Could Be as Simple as a Bar of Soap.” <em>Fast Company</em>, Fast Company, 2 Oct. 2019, <a href="http://www.fastcompany.com/90412294/the-future-of-packaging-could-be-as-simple-as-a-bar-of-soap">URL</a></sub></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><sub>Bar-None.co. “Aluminium: the Infinitely Recyclable Material.” <em>Bar</em>, <a href="http://bar-none.co/blogs/bar-none/aluminium-the-infinitely-recyclable-material">URL</a></sub></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><sub>Mackenzie, Wood. “Will Aluminium Cans Replace Plastic Bottles?” <em>Forbes</em>, Forbes Magazine, 2 Sept. 2019, <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/woodmackenzie/2019/09/02/will-aluminium-cans-replace-plastic-bottles/?sh=44078dcf12a0">URL</a></sub></p>

Benefits of Using Refillable Shampoo Bottles

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<h3 style="text-align: center;">Did you know that your shower has a dirty little secret? While it may be your go-to place to get clean, your bathtime habits and the products you currently use could be harming your hair, skin, and the environment! If you continuously purchase plastic bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc., then you’re contributing to the ever-growing problem of plastic pollution.&nbsp;</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;">Plus, the chemicals found in some products are affecting our waterways and the fish that occupy them, while also drying out and damaging your hair and skin.</p>
<p></p>
<p>In this article we will dissect the dark side of getting squeaky clean, what it means to be environmentally-friendly in the shower, and how to make positive changes to your routine in order to feel twice as good about getting clean. </p><h4>WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO GO GREEN?</h4>
<p>Being environmentally friendly means not harming the environment by contributing to air, water, or land pollution. Going green is the process of transitioning into a more environmentally-friendly consumer. We do this by swapping out our product that has a negative environmental impact for an eco friendly product. </p>
<p>If you’re interested in reducing your carbon footprint and would like to take steps to become a more conscious consumer, it’s your job to educate yourself on sources, ingredients, businesses and brands to avoid, and those to support. It’s also worth knowing that terms like “green,” “clean,” and “sustainable” get thrown around a lot, especially on social media. We advise you to not take those at face value and always double-check that the products attached to those claims have the information to back them up. We know this can sometimes require a lot of research, so we’re here to educate you on the basics of how to be more eco friendly and expanding your sustainable living to your shower.</p>
<p>Remember, change takes time. Small steps towards a greater goal are way more effective than making unrealistic, drastic changes that are difficult to maintain. It’s also important to recognize that going green is a lifelong process, and you are not going to be able to choose the most sustainable product option every time. Don’t get discouraged! It’s important to keep committed and look for ways to offset that which you cannot change.</p>
<p>As a hair care company we believe it’s our duty to help you take more sustainable showers, and we’re happy to share that there are many ways to go green while getting clean! For example, we can conserve water by showering faster or showering less; we can prevent waste by using products that are biodegradable, come in minimal packaging, or have <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/02/25/benefits-of-using-refillable-shampoo-bottles/" target="_blank">refill shampoo bottles</a> and containers; and we can save waterways from pollution by choosing to use sustainable hair care products containing organic, natural ingredients. </p><h4>HOW DO YOU TAKE AN ECO-FRIENDLY SHOWER?</h4>
<p>When exploring the ways to take an eco-friendly shower, here are four guiding questions to ask yourself: <br>• How fast am I bathing? How much water am I using in the shower?<br>• How am I bathing? How do showers compare to baths?<br>• What’s on my shelves? How are my cleaning products packaged?<br>• What’s on my body? Which ingredients should I use or avoid?</p><h4>TAKE SHORTER – OR FEWER – SHOWERS TO CONSERVE WATER</h4><figure><br></figure>

<p>Before we dive into your habits in the shower, let’s discuss shower frequency. Do you shower daily or do you tend to space out your scrubs? When you do shower, do you wash your hair every time? Depending on the type of hair you have, as well as your main hair concerns, you might be able to go a few days (or longer) without washing your hair. </p>
<p>If you’re currently unable to go even a full day without washing your hair, New Wash can help you achieve these goals. New Wash is a detergent-free, shampoo-alternative that doesn’t dry up your scalp, nor cause it to overproduce oils in order to balance itself out. When your scalp no longer starts to get oily immediately after a wash, you no longer need to run back to the shower! Dry shampoo is also a great option to extend your hairstyle for another day – or two or three! Our dry shampoo, Powder, is free of aerosol and talc, ingredients that are harmful to the environment and your lungs, respectively.</p>

<p>Now let’s dive into our shower habits: this <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/energy-environment/wp/2015/03/04/your-shower-is-wasting-huge-amounts-of-energy-and-water-heres-what-to-do-about-it/">2015 Washington Post article</a> states that a standard shower head emits 2.5 gallons of water per minute, with the average person taking around 8 minutes to shower. Most people prefer their water hot, or at least warm, and therefore it’s become common to let our showers run for a few minutes to get up to optimal temperature. While we wait for the warmth, we usually complete small tasks in preparation for our shower. This process of waiting for the water heater has become so common, it’s been dubbed behavioral waste. Living up to its name, waiting for our water to warm not only wastes valuable water, but it also takes a bunch of energy to heat water to our preferred temperature! Living in a first-world society has bestowed upon us the gift of hot showers, but at what cost? </p>
<p>There are many updates you can make to your pipes, showerhead, and drainage systems to offset this wasteful process by installing various forms of “conservation technology.” Some examples include EPA-certified shower heads, water recovery systems, and shut-off valves to do things like internally regulate water temperature so it doesn’t go over 95°, or displace water that has been left in your pipes and cooled to be used somewhere else. While some of these options can be expensive up front, they pay dividends on your future water and water-heating energy costs. We encourage you to read more about these options if you are serious about making a big change in your sustainable living journey!</p>
<p>If you aren’t ready to make such a splash in the water-conservation sector, we understand. We also understand that the ritual of showering is sacred for many, and apart from telling you to suck it up and take a cold shower, we’ve come up with some creative solutions to save a few droplets:</p><ul><li><strong>Take shorter showers:</strong> While it may seem like an easy feat, showering is often done in the morning when we’re half-asleep or in the evening when we’re looking to wind down. We suggest purchasing a waterproof shower clock to monitor how much time you spend in the shower, and setting a goal to shorten it.</li><li><strong>Turn down the heat:</strong> Taking cooler showers takes less energy to heat and calls for a shorter behavioral waste period. A lukewarm shower is also better for your skin and less enticing to daydream in, encouraging users to get in, do their business, and get out quickly! Cooler showers can be especially enjoyable in the warmer months, and there are even studies that <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17993252/">cold showers might reduce depression</a>.</li><li><strong>Do as the Europeans do:</strong> Unlike Americans who continuously let the water run and simply step out to lather their hair and wash their bodies, Europeans wet themselves, then turn off the shower to wash their hair and body. Once they’re all soaped up, they turn the shower back on and rinse! Mind-boggling we know. Try it sometime. </li><li><strong>Shower together:</strong> If you share a bathroom with your partner, sibling, roommate, etc. and you both feel comfortable walking past one another in a towel, then taking back-to-back showers means no water needs to be wasted to heat up a second shower at a different time. </li></ul>
<p>Our goal is not to completely overturn your shower routine, but we do hope that these suggestions will inspire you to make small changes that are easy to implement and remain committed to. Happy showering! </p><br><h4>SHOWERS VERSUS BATHS: WHO COMES UP CLEANER?</h4>
<p>Are you a lover of luxury? Did your eyes glaze over as soon as the word shower was uttered because you’re a member of the roughly 30 percent of adults who consistently takes baths? Well, after we ran ourselves a bath, we ran the numbers and compared bathing to showering, and boy do we have news for you! </p>
<p>First, the math: A standard tub holds 42 gallons of water, but if you account for the volume your body takes up during bathtime, <a href="https://www.hunker.com/13400924/capacity-of-the-average-bathtub">most people fill their tubs with roughly 30 gallons of water to bathe</a>. As we mentioned earlier, a standard shower head produces 2.5 gallons of water a minute. This means having a soak in the bath produces the same amount of wastewater as taking a 10 minute shower plus time for 2 minutes of behavioral waste. </p>
<p>However, we must account for a few things here: are you taking piping hot baths like you are in the shower, or do you prefer a lukewarm soak? Hot bath lovers would presumably have to engage in their own behavioral waste and let the cold water run out of the bath before plugging the drain. With this in mind, it’s possible that your tub time wastes more than we originally thought. This is also good news for our cooler bath lovers: not only are cooler temps the less wasteful bathing option, but according to <a href="https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/personal-hygiene-bath-vs-shower">Refinery29</a>, hot baths run the risk of parching your skin as opposed to hydrating it.</p><h4>ARE BATHS BAD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT?</h4>
<p>Now that we know that there are many factors that can alter the environmental implications of bathing and showering, there is one silver – or should we say grey – lining. Regardless if you are pro-shower or chose to stand behind bathing, you can recycle your wastewater! This water is known as “greywater” and can be used to do things like water your plants and irrigate your yard. Just be sure this water doesn’t come into contact with any plants you may be growing for consumption. </p>
<p>Reusing greywater also keeps this water out of local septic systems, where it’s more likely to become a pollutant. Not to mention, when you know you will be reusing your water, you automatically become more aware of the soaps, oils, and body washes you put into it! Now, there are a few steps and possibly some plumbing updates you will have to make in order to begin recycling your greywater, but we encourage you to contact your city or town, as well as a trusted plumber, to explore your options and reduce environmental impact. </p><h4>FINAL WEIGH-IN: BATHING VERSUS SHOWERING </h4>
<p>So what’s more eco-friendly? Taking a shower or a bath? It’s easy to feel like you may be drowning in information! Here are some takeaways regarding showering and bathing: when you keep your showers to below ten minutes, they are more eco-friendly than baths. Just remember to remain conscious of your behavioral waste and water temperature!</p><h5>If you are looking to save water but aren’t ready to fully give up your bathtime ritual, try swapping every other bath for a shower, or using bathing as a reward for a personal goal.</h5>
<p>Arming yourself with this knowledge and beginning to make small changes can make a big difference in the long run. </p>
<p>Now that we have dissected the different ways to get clean, let’s dive into the cleaning products that help us do so!</p><h4>USING ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS IN THE SHOWER</h4><h4>Say goodbye to plastic bottles </h4>

<p>Many people’s showers are lined with multiple plastic container shampoos, conditioners, and body wash. Once these products have been used up, and can no longer be squeezed for every last drop, where do they go? We hoped to share with you that most get to the recycling bin, but only roughly one third of American households recycle, and not even all of that plastic waste gets recycled properly! We’ve been so conditioned to replace our bottles every time we run out that we haven’t stopped to think about where all this material ends up! </p>

<h4>A brief history of plastic </h4>
<p>Plastic was introduced as an alternative to glass and metal containers in the 1950s. It immediately grew popular due to its durability and resistance to degradation, which are the same characteristics that make it so difficult to properly dispose of. </p>
<p>A 2017 <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/19/climate/plastic-pollution-study-science-advances.html">article from the New York Times</a>, tells us from the introduction of plastic in the 1950s to roughly the article’s date of publishing, over eight billion metric tons of plastic have been produced, with around half being produced since 2004. Around 12 billion metric tons are estimated to accumulate in landfills or in the environment by 2050. You might be asking yourself, “landfills? The environment? But I recycle my plastic!” According to the <a href="https://blogs.ei.columbia.edu/2020/03/13/fix-recycling-america/">Earth Institute at Columbia University</a>, in order for consumer goods companies to be able to actually reuse recycled plastic, it can’t be contaminated; but because much of the US uses single-stream recycling systems where we don’t separate plastics from glass from paper, it’s more difficult to prevent cross-contamination. To start, this means we must make sure all of our recycling is rinsed out with the labels removed. </p>
<p>It’s also important to note that plastic can only be recycled once or twice before it needs to be permanently disposed of anyway. This is alarming because, according to the New York Times, the largest sector of plastic production is packaging – hello shampoo, conditioner and bodywash bottles. It makes sense, then, that over 50% of plastic waste also comes from packaging. </p>
<p>So what happens to unusable plastic such as all that contaminated plastic that cannot be reused or plastic that can no longer be recycled? There are three options:</p><ul><li><strong>Plastic can be incinerated:</strong> Burning plastic is the only way to permanently dispose of it, but this process releases harmful chemicals. Note: not only is burning household trash illegal in the US, but it is not the same process as large-scale incineration where the toxins are better-controlled. </li><li><strong><a href="https://advances.sciencemag.org/content/3/7/e1700782">Less than 10% of all plastic ever made is recycled</a>:</strong> Whether through our own ignorance or inability to avoid contaminating it. Remember, recycling only delays final disposal as plastic cannot be continuously reused.  </li><li><strong>Plastic becomes trash:</strong> Over 60% of plastic ends up in landfills or scattered throughout the environment.</li></ul><h4>Hairstory is giving plastic bottles a run for their money </h4>
<p>Now that we’ve learned recycling is... garbage, how do we stay clean without contributing to landfills by purchasing single-use plastic bottles? </p>
<p>At Hairstory, we began phasing out plastic bottles in 2019 and replacing them with our pouches constructed of a foil lining sealed between two, thin layers of plastic. It’s important to note that these pouches are not recyclable; however we decided to adopt them for our refill program because of the significant reduction in the carbon footprint in production and transportation.</p>
<p>In our continuous efforts to reduce the impact our business has on the environment and minimize plastic waste, we recently discovered a foil-free and completely recyclable technology from Japan! We hope to introduce this upgraded material towards the end of 2021, bringing us another step closer to become a fully refillable beauty company that provides the highest quality sustainable hair products.</p><h4>PLASTIC ALTERNATIVES TO CONSIDER</h4>
<p>Once we switched to using plastic pouches over plastic bottles, we knew we had to provide a sturdy, reusable container to store your New Wash in. While we understand that glass may look pretty, it’s a hazard to use in the shower. Should a glass bottle ever slip through your wet hands, you’d be barefoot in a mess of trouble. </p>
<p>We chose to go with an aluminum bottle because aluminum is more sustainable than plastic. According to <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2019/9/12/20862775/aluminum-recycling-water-tech-plastic-manufacturing-cocacola-pepsi-apple">The Verge</a>, almost 75% of all the aluminum ever produced is still in use today. Our hope is that this bottle will last you a lifetime, so it will never even necessitate recycling. </p><h4>THE DIRTY SECRET BEHIND SHAMPOO BARS</h4>
<p>You may have recently been made aware of a “green” hair trend involving shampoo bars. If you don’t know, shampoo bars are shampoo in the form of bars of soap. Superficially, shampoo bars seem like a great alternative to single-use plastics because they require little-to-no packaging and therefore don’t produce any packaging waste. </p>
<p>It’s important to take a look at their ingredients, however, because what shampoo bars lack in packaging, they make up for in harming your scalp.  Here is an example of a common ingredients list found on an “organic” shampoo bar:</p>

<p>On the second line you will notice sodium hydroxide. Sodium hydroxide is extremely corrosive and most commonly used for unclogging drains. It can be also found in paint thinner and is a prominent ingredient in cattle dehorning. In chemistry, sodium hydroxide is known as a “base” because it promotes a chemical reaction when it interacts with certain substances. </p>
<p>Substances that sodium hydroxide reacts particularly well with are fats, oils, and lipids. Notice in the ingredients we see many oils listed, as well as cocoa butter, a lipid. In chemistry, saponification is the process of turning fats, oils, and lipids into soap and alcohol. When sodium hydroxide interacts with all of those oils and lipids, saponification occurs and produces regular old soap, the kind that foams and therefore strips your scalp of its natural protective oil barrier. These companies aren’t selling you anything new or healthy, in fact they are tricking you into purchasing their product! You may also notice that brands market their shampoo bars as 2-in-1 body and hair because it really is just a rebranded bar of soap. </p>
<p>It is important to note that all detergents are surfactants, but not all surfactants are detergents. New Wash uses a proprietary blend of essential oils and non-saponified (and therefore detergent-free) surfactants. Surfactants lower the surface tension between two items and basically help loosen impurities like dirt, oils, and buildup from the scalp without sudsing it up.</p><h4>WHICH INGREDIENTS TO USE AND WHICH TO AVOID</h4>
<p>Let’s dive deeper into why you should be aware of the ingredients in your soaps and shampoos. Sulfates and detergents should not be used on skin. Why? They work too well! Effective at removing dirt and buildup, these ingredients also strip your scalp (and face) of good, protective oils that keep your skin moisturized. Leaving your hair and skin without this barrier can cause dryness, weather damage, and irritation from fragrances or the detergents themselves. </p>
<p>Our hair and skin aren’t the only things damaged by sulfates, however. <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/02/25/how-shampoo-impacts-the-environment/" target="_blank">Is shampoo bad for the environment?</a> Residual shampoo and soap products enter into our water systems while we bathe, upsetting delicate freshwater ecosystems and causing harm to aquatic life. While you may not think you use enough product to cause any damage yourself, take into consideration how many people live in your neighborhood and think about how often they or someone in their house is showering. It adds up.</p>
<p>According to the <a href="https://www.worldwildlife.org/pages/which-everyday-products-contain-palm-oil">World Wildlife Fund</a>, sulfates are also harmful in that they contribute to deforestation. Sulfates can be derived from palm oil, which is found in a myriad of consumer ingredients. A 2019 article from <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/news/2019/feb/19/palm-oil-ingredient-biscuits-shampoo-environmental">The Guardian</a> explains that palm oil is harvested by razing natural forests to create palm oil plantations. Killing these forests not only destroys ecosystems for all of the wildlife that lives there, but it increases greenhouse gas levels without the trees to suck up the carbon, and fosters unfair labor practices for plantation employees. We encourage you to not only avoid sulfates in your beauty routine, but to become more diligent and see what other products you are buying that contain palm oil and rid yourself of them too!</p>
<p>Hairstory does not contain any sulfates or detergents. Since developing New Wash, we have maintained a commitment to the health of our customers as well as the environment, and we hope that our passion for clean beauty comes through here! </p><h4>HOW TO START BUILDING AN ECO FRIENDLY SHOWER </h4>

<p>As we mentioned earlier, going green should be about the journey, not the destination. We wrote this article as a doorway to educate our users about all the negatives of plastic packaging and shampoo ingredients, but they can be applied across many aspects of your life! As you begin to educate yourself on how to be more sustainable in the bathroom, with your water supply, the eco friendly hair care products you use, etc. we challenge you to find new, creative ways to do so throughout the rest of your home.</p>

<p>It’s extremely important to remember to be patient with yourself during this process, and sometimes you will not be able to get to the most sustainable option right away and that’s ok! We encourage you to keep these parameters in mind when assessing how eco-friendly your shower routine is:</p><ul><li>How fast am I bathing?</li><li>Shower or bath?</li><li>How my products are packaged?</li><li>What’s on my body?</li></ul><h4>A NOTE ON DISPOSING OF PRODUCTS</h4>
<p>Though plastic bottles and their ingredients may not be sustainable, the most sustainable way to “dispose” of them is to use them up. The only thing worse than a plastic bottle sitting in a landfill, is a full or half-full plastic bottle sitting in a landfill. At least when you use the product you are not wasting it; for our hair-removers out there, conditioner makes for a great shaving cream. </p>
<p>We are so thankful to have fostered a community that encourages us to be vocal about these issues and, as always, if you have any questions about anything you read feel free to message us as <a href="mailto:hello@hairstory.com">hello@hairstory.com</a>! </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">* * *</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Sources:</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Mooney, Chris. “Your Shower Is Wasting Huge Amounts of Energy and Water. Here's What You Can Do about It.” <em>The Washington Post</em>, WP Company, 29 Apr. 2019, <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/energy-environment/wp/2015/03/04/your-shower-is-wasting-huge-amounts-of-energy-and-water-heres-what-to-do-about-it/" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">NA;, Shevchuk. “Adapted Cold Shower as a Potential Treatment for Depression.” <em>Medical Hypotheses</em>, U.S. National Library of Medicine, <a href="http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17993252/" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">“Capacity of the Average Bathtub.” <em>Hunker</em>, <a href="http://www.hunker.com/13400924/capacity-of-the-average-bathtub" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Bryant, Taylor. “The Ultimate Beauty Debate: Baths Vs. Showers.” <em>Bath Vs Shower Bathing Pros And Cons</em>, <a href="http://www.refinery29.com/en-us/personal-hygiene-bath-vs-shower" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Schlossberg, Tatiana. “The Immense, Eternal Footprint Humanity Leaves on Earth: Plastics.” <em>The New York Times</em>, The New York Times, 19 July 2017, <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/19/climate/plastic-pollution-study-science-advances.html" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">13, Renee Cho |March, et al. “Recycling in the U.S. Is Broken. How Do We Fix It?” <em>State of the Planet</em>, 8 Dec. 2020, <a href="http://blogs.ei.columbia.edu/2020/03/13/fix-recycling-america/" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Geyer, Roland, et al. “Production, Use, and Fate of All Plastics Ever Made.” <em>Science Advances</em>, American Association for the Advancement of Science, 1 July 2017, <a href="http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/3/7/e1700782" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Calma, Justine. “Aluminum Is Recycling's New Best Friend, but It's Complicated.” <em>The Verge</em>, The Verge, 12 Sept. 2019, <a href="http://www.theverge.com/2019/9/12/20862775/aluminum-recycling-water-tech-plastic-manufacturing-cocacola-pepsi-apple" target="_blank">URL</a></p>
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Going Green: Making Your Shower Eco-Friendly

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<h3 style="text-align: center;">A synthetic fragrance may contain up to 3000 ingredients, none of which are required to be disclosed by the FDA. According to the<a href="http://www.safecosmetics.org/">Campaign for Safer Cosmetics</a>, hair care products are especially problematic because 95% of them list “fragrance” as an ingredient, without revealing more about what makes them smell so good.</h3>
<p>Synthetic fragrances are the most common type in beauty products and hair perfume simply because they are inexpensive, unlike the highly concentrated oils derived from botanical sources. For example, it can take over 10,000 hand-picked flowers to produce a single vial of essential oil, and that kind of loving labor doesn’t come cheaply. </p>
<p>At Hairstory, we use 100% natural fragrances comprised of natural, essential oils in New Wash (our paraben-free <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/new-wash/">shampoo alternative</a>) and all of our products. We also make it a policy to go beyond the legal requirement and list those oils on our ingredient list.</p><h4>WHAT IS A “NATURAL” FRAGRANCE?</h4>
<p>Natural fragrances are made up of essential oils, absolutes, extracts, CO2s, and aromatic components isolated from essential oil. While natural fragrances are made in a laboratory, they are not made from synthetic materials. Read more about <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/21/which-essential-oils-are-good-for-hair/">essential oils that are good for hair</a>.</p>

<h4>WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A “NATURAL” FRAGRANCE AND A “SYNTHETIC” FRAGRANCE?</h4>
<p>A natural fragrance is made of ingredients limited to florals, botanicals, or musks, while synthetic scents can be made by blending chemically-composed material to create countless variations.</p>

<h4>WHY ARE SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCES SO COMMON?</h4>
<p>Your nose probably can’t tell the difference between a synthetic fragrance and one made from essential oils, so many companies can’t justify the expense when it comes to looking at the bottom line: the profit margin. Fragrance ingredients are also regarded as somewhat of a trade secret, and since the USFDA doesn’t require disclosure on product packaging, anything goes.</p>
<p>However, things are different in the EU, where product ingredients are generally considered guilty until proven innocent, and regulation is far more stringent than in the United States. Since fragrance is often the culprit when a user experiences an allergic reaction or skin irritation with a product, this helps discover which ingredient(s) may be the cause. Regulations in the EU are outpacing those in the US as more and more ingredients are tagged as problematic, and we have already taken note, with plans to comply.</p>

<h4>HOW ARE FRAGRANCES COMPOSED?</h4>
<p>Creating a balanced fragrance is as much an art as it is a science, and one must literally have a “nose” for it. Each scent is intended to be unique and usually consists of several layers that are revealed to the senses in stages according to how readily they evaporate. </p>
<p>The top notes are the first scents you smell, and first to dissipate, lasting from about five minutes up to two hours. The middle, or heart notes give the fragrance its character, arriving and fully developing within ten minutes and lingering for up to three hours. The base notes ground and balance the fragrance, emerging within 30 minutes and lasting for several hours or even days.</p>

<p>Here is a chart that illustrates the basic “structure” of a scent and the categories of its many notes: </p>

<h4>IS FRAGRANCE BAD FOR HAIR?</h4>
<p>The bottom line: While fragrance itself will not damage your hair, it can provoke allergic reactions. It’s important to read ingredient labels carefully, especially when it comes to fragrance. If the hair product doesn’t list its aromatic components, you have every right to beware and ask what they’re hiding. You also want to steer clear of <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2019/05/30/these-ingredients-do-not-belong-in-your-hair/">phthalates</a> – a group of harmful chemicals often hidden under the ingredients, listed as ‘fragrance.’ If you are one of those people with hair fragrance sensitivities, a sensitive scalp, or even sensitive skin, you also have the right to know. So speak up... and smell the posers.</p>

Natural vs Synthetic Fragrance

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<h4 style="text-align: center;">Keratin, a protein that can help smooth and strengthen hair, is a great addition to your hair care routine. The keratin benefits for hair include making hair more resistant to damage, taming frizzy hair, and repairing hair after chemical or heat exposure.</h4><h5>WHAT IS KERATIN?</h5>
<p>Keratin is a fibrous, protective protein that provides the structure for human hair, nails, and the outermost layers of your skin – and your horns, hoofs, wool, claws, and feathers if you were an elk, a horse, a lizard, or a bird. </p>
<p>Keratin that is found as an ingredient in various hair products and <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/new-wash/">hair cleansers</a> is derived from horns, hoofs, wool, and feathers of various animals. Since keratin – less vulnerable to damage than other types of cells in the body – is the structural foundation of your hair strands, the theory is that keratin-enriched products can make your hair stronger, healthier, and more resistant to daily wear-and-tear.</p>
<h5>HOW DOES KERATIN WORK?</h5>
<p>Keratin works to make hair smoother and more manageable by smoothing out the overlapping shingles that form each hair strand’s outer shell called the cuticle. This layer of cells absorbs keratin that is applied, whether in a styling product or during special treatment processes. Like keratin, jojoba oil can act in a similar way; learn more about <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/27/is-jojoba-oil-good-for-hair/">jojoba oil benefits for hair</a>.</p>
<p><br></p>
<p></p>

<p></p>
<p>These treatments – generally referred to as Brazilian keratin treatments – are used primarily to make natural hair or curly hair less so, iron out frizz, and make hair easier to style. They act by restructuring the bonds that bind the keratin protein together and turning curly or frizzy strands to  straight and smooth. It’s essentially a perm in reverse. During a keratin hair treatment, a cream is applied to your hair before it is dried and then straightened. Once the cream is washed out, another treatment is applied along with heat to “set” the results. The effects of keratin smoothing treatment can last up to three months.</p>
<p></p>

<p>Keratin serums, keratin shampoo, and keratin conditioner do not have nearly as dramatic effects as the salon treatments do. Still, keratin-enriched oil can help make hair somewhat more resistant to damage, and help repair hair that has been exposed to chemicals or heat. Keratin oil can also combat frizzy hair and make the hair shaft more smooth. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3621039/">Research</a> shows that keratin can be a solution for those in need of stronger, less fragile or delicate strands. While keratin has many benefits, there are also other oils and vitamins that are equally as beneficial. It may take a blend of ingredients to make your hair more robust, so learn about all the <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/21/which-essential-oils-are-good-for-hair/">essential oils that are good for hair</a>, including the <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/27/benefits-of-peppermint-oil-for-hair/">benefits of peppermint oil</a>.</p>
<h5>HOW DO I GET KERATIN?</h5>
<p>There are three ways to deliver keratin to your hair:</p>
<p><strong>• Internally:</strong> Keratin supplements are available in powder and capsule forms. Proper dosage is crucial because overuse can result in the protein building up inside your body. Check with your doctor or a nutritional expert.</p>
<p><strong>• Topically:  </strong>Look for hair products that contain keratin – from shampoos to serums. Some brands feature entire product collections created around the ingredient.</p>
<p><strong>• Treatments:  </strong>You can go to a salon for a professional keratin treatment if you think the price tag of at least $300 and up to $800 is really worth it (at-home versions run about $50, but the mess and the learning curve may not be worth it). </p>
<h5>THE DARK SIDE OF KERATIN</h5>
<p>We hesitate to even mention keratin treatments; aside from robbing hair of its unique texture and behavior, the health risks are significant for both you and your hairdresser. Why? Because salon treatments either contain formaldehyde or emit it once heat is applied, and formaldehyde is a dangerous toxin and has been known to cause hair damage.</p>
<p>Shockingly, Brazilian Blowouts and other keratin treatments <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/10/21/health/brazilian-blowout-formaldehyde-fda.html">have stayed on the market</a> despite users complaining of eye-stinging, headache-inducing fumes. In 2017, the FDA’s scientists issued warning letters to two companies that produced hair-smoothing products containing formaldehyde for a failure to disclose potential health risks.</p>
<p>While these companies claimed their products were “formaldehyde-free,” the bottles contained methylene glycol - a chemical that converts to formaldehyde gas after being exposed to air and heat. Studies of workers exposed to high levels of formaldehyde have found an increased risk of myeloid leukemia and rare cancers of the nose and pharynx. Some <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2019/05/30/these-ingredients-do-not-belong-in-your-hair/">ingredients do not belong in your hair</a> and it’s important to know which ones to avoid.</p>
<p></p>

<p>To use these products safely, “you’d have to do the treatments in a wind tunnel,” said Bart Heldreth, executive director of the <a href="https://www.cir-safety.org/ingredient/formaldehyde">Cosmetic Ingredient Review</a>, who concluded that formaldehyde and methylene glycol in levels over 0.2% are unsafe – and are not permitted for sale in Canada. </p>
<h5>WHAT KERATIN DOES: THE BOTTOM LINE</h5>
<p>Before you rush to the salon for a keratin treatment – our advice is to run in the opposite direction if you value your hairdresser’s health – we urge you to try versions of your go-to products that are formulated with it. All three versions of Hairstory New Wash – Original, Deep, and Rich – contain generous amounts in 100% detergent-free formulations.</p>

<p style="text-align: center;"><sub>***</sub></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><sub>Sources:</sub></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/keratin#risks-and-side-effects"><em><sub>https://www.healthline.com/health/keratin</sub></em></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/keratin"><em><sub>https://www.britannica.com/science/keratin</sub></em></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3621039/"><em><sub>https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3621039/</sub></em></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cir-safety.org/ingredient/formaldehyde"><em><sub>https://www.cir-safety.org/ingredient/formaldehyde</sub></em></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/hair-smoothing-products-release-formaldehyde-when-heated"><em><sub>https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/hair-smoothing-products-release-formaldehyde-when-heated</sub></em></a></p>

What Does Keratin Do?

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<h4 style="text-align: center;">Jojoba oil (hoe-HOE-bah) tops the list of essential oils that are beneficial for the hair and scalp due to its active components that mimic your body’s naturally moisturizing oils.&nbsp;</h4>
<p style="text-align: center;">If your hair or scalp shows signs of dryness or dandruff, say hello to Jojoba and healthy hair. Here is why and how you should include its moisturizing magic in your haircare regimen or find&nbsp;<a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/new-wash/">a hair cleanser</a>&nbsp;that includes it.</p>

<h5>WHAT IS JOJOBA?</h5>
<p>The Jojoba plant (Simmondsia Chinensis) – is a native of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. An evergreen shrub with broad, tough, gray-green leaves, its pale, yellow-green flowers bloom in winter, and the female plants’ acorn-shaped seeds ripen in the summertime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jojoba grows throughout the Sonoran Desert and into the coastal mountain ranges of southern California, where it is commercially cultivated for its oil and for landscaping in arid areas.</p>

<p>More than 40 percent of a Jojoba seed consists of a prized liquid wax that shows an unusual resistance to being oxidized and remains stable even in high heat conditions, one of the reasons it is chosen for styling products in the hairdressing arena. Jojoba oil can often be mistaken for an essential oil. But technically, Jojoba oil isn’t an oil at all, but a member of the wax family. </p><h5>WHAT IS IN JOJOBA OIL?</h5>
<p>Jojoba is rich in nourishing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E, copper, and zinc. The fatty acids in Jojoba oil condition hair and are believed to protect it from heat styling damage and prevent hair breakage.</p>

<p>Those potent antioxidants combat conditions that lead to scalp issues, and if you have color-treated hair, they can help prevent unwanted tonal shifts. If you have a dry scalp, it can be very beneficial.<br></p>
<p>One of the components of jojoba oil is zinc, one of the elements that help to ensure that your hair follicles remain fertile places for new growth. It also helps to keep the oil glands working optimally so your hair and scalp don’t dry out. Jojoba oil also features stearic acid and palmitic acid, both natural conditioners with protective abilities. Jojoba Oil isn’t the only hair-positive oil out there; learn more about the various <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/21/which-essential-oils-are-good-for-hair/">essential oils that are good for hair.</a></p><h5>WHAT DOES JOJOBA OIL DO?</h5>
<p>One reason jojoba oil is so commonly used in cosmetics is that it is non-comedogenic, meaning that it does not tend to cause blackheads by blocking skin pores. It has a consistency that is readily absorbed by hair and skin rather than sitting on the surface.</p><h5>IS HAIR GROWTH ONE OF MANY JOJOBA OIL BENEFITS?</h5>
<p>You may have heard that Jojoba oil has been in the news as the next big thing in promoting hair growth and as a cure for baldness, but the research isn’t there yet to start celebrating. In fact, a recent study found it was less effective than minoxidil (Rogaine) or than one of the <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/27/benefits-of-peppermint-oil-for-hair/">benefits of peppermint oil for hair</a>. However, it’s helpful to know the benefits of peppermint oil for hair to be sure what the healing properties actually are.</p><br>

<h5>SOOTHE THE SCALP</h5>
<p>Jojoba oil is, however, a great way to treat scalp conditions – from simple dandruff to severe psoriasis – as a result of its antibacterial and antifungal powers. And since it regulates your oil production and mimics your sebaceous glands and sebum production more closely, it helps create a more hospitable environment for healthy growth.</p>
<h5>CONDITION THE HAIR</h5>
<p>Jojoba oil is much lighter than many other oils&nbsp; – good news for people with fine hair who need some help in the moisturizing department but can easily get weighed down by typical conditioners or another hair product. If you're worried about oily hair or an oily scalp, jojoba oil might be the hair care product you've been looking for.</p>

<h5>DELAY GRAYS</h5>
<p>Copper deficiency may result in loss of pigment and prematurely gray hair; studies of copper’s potential as an anti-aging compound are underway. Because jojoba oil contains copper, applying it could help to slow down the graying process.</p>
<h5>HOW DO YOU USE JOJOBA OIL?</h5>
<p>There are three ways to include Jojoba oil in your hair care.</p>
<p><strong>1. Apply it directly.</strong><br>
Warm up a tablespoon or two of the oil beforehand on the stovetop or microwave (don’t cook it) to make it easier to apply. Work it through the entire hair shaft from roots to tips; massage your scalp with it if you’re feeling dry or experiencing flakes. Leave in for about 20 minutes, then wash and rinse, similarly to the way you would with a normal hair conditioner.</p>
<p><strong>2. Add it to your favorite products.</strong><br>
Use a few drops of Jojoba oil to mix with a dollop of your usual conditioner – especially the leave-in variety – before use.</p>

<p><strong>3. Look for products that contain it.</strong><br>
The easiest way to make sure you get a regular – and regulated – dose is to scan ingredient lists in the hair products you commonly use. Just make sure that it’s relatively high on that list as ingredients are shown in order of the highest concentrations to lowest. But be wary of&nbsp;<a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2019/05/30/these-ingredients-do-not-belong-in-your-hair/">ingredients that do not belong on your hair</a>.</p>
<p>Hairstory New Wash, a detergent-free hair cleansing option, is one of those products. Jojoba oil is featured high on its ingredient list for all of the reasons above, and it joins Aloe Vera, Sunflower, and Evening Primrose oils to form a gentler detergent alternative. It also contains a healthy dose of Keratin&nbsp;to keep hair strong; learn more about&nbsp;<a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/27/what-does-keratin-do/">what keratin does for hair</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<h5>CAN I BE ALLERGIC TO JOJOBA OIL?</h5>
<p>Allergic reactions to jojoba oil are possible but quite rare – it’s always a good idea to apply it to a small patch of skin first and keep an eye on it – and it has been deemed safe for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Your skin and dry scalp will thank you.<br>
&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">* * *<br>
</p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><strong>Sources:</strong><br><a href="https://www.desertmuseum.org/"><em>https://www.desertmuseum.org/<br></em></a><a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/jojoba-oil-for-hair#benefits"><em>https://www.healthline.com/health/jojoba-oil-for-hair#benefits<br></em></a><a href="https://www.prevention.com/beauty/a29829814/jojoba-oil-benefits/"><em>https://www.prevention.com/beauty/a29829814/jojoba-oil-benefits/</em></a></h2>


<p></p>

Is Jojoba Oil Good For Hair?

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<h3 style="text-align: center;">There are many good reasons to make peppermint oil a part of your scalp care ritual beside the fact that it feels and smells so cool.&nbsp;</h3><p style="text-align: center;">It’s an extraordinary oil derived from a very common plant, and a <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/new-wash/" target="_self">hair cleanser</a> that includes it is a great addition to your hair – and especially scalp – care. Check out the benefits of peppermint oil for your hair.</p><p></p><h4>WHAT IS PEPPERMINT? </h4><p>Peppermint is native to the Middle East and to Europe and is cultivated in many regions of the world; in fact it will grow pretty much anywhere with enough moisture. The peppermint plant has leaves that are fuzzy, dark green with rosy veins; its flowers are lavender to purple and clustered in spikes. Gardeners may call it invasive – as do Australians and residents of the Galápagos Islands, New Zealand, and the Great Lakes region here in America – though you can also spot it in the wild where its parent species spearmint and watermint grow.</p>

<h4>WHAT IS IN PEPPERMINT OIL?</h4>
<p>Peppermint oil has high concentrations of pulegone, menthol, menthone, menthyl acetate, limonene, beta-pinene, and beta-caryophyllene. Peppermint essential oil also contains menthol which is responsible for the way peppermint tastes, smells, and its unmistakable cooling sensation.<br></p>

<h4>WHAT DOES PEPPERMINT OIL DO?</h4>
<p>Using peppermint oil in your hair care routine is a way to show your scalp some love. Peppermint essential oil is an antimicrobial, vasodilating, and anti-inflammatory agent, all reasons that it is reported to boost hair growth and even help to relieve headache pain. While peppermint oil has many healing properties, it’s also important to know what <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2019/05/30/these-ingredients-do-not-belong-in-your-hair/">bad ingredients in shampoo are</a>.</p>
<p>Vasodilation, or the expansion of blood vessels, is a significant property of peppermint oil because improving blood flow better delivers essential vitamins that serve as antioxidants and nutrients to the follicles where hair takes root. Restricted flow to the hair follicles can speed hair loss, and increasing circulation may help prevent it. A study conducted in 2014 in mice demonstrated that peppermint oils made hair grow faster and thicker because hair follicles were receiving increased blood flow.</p>
<p>As reported in <a href="http://koreascience.or.kr/article/JAKO201402755363070.page">Toxicological Research</a>, peppermint oil helped with hair growth more effectively than minoxidil does, one of the few hair growth innovations given the green light by the USFDA.</p>
<p>Anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory abilities of peppermint oil make it an ideal choice to prevent and relieve dandruff, dermatitis, and burning or itching. Keratin has many of these properties as well. Learn more about <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/27/what-does-keratin-do/">what keratin does for hair.</a></p>
<p>Tension headaches? Try <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/migraine/peppermint-oil-for-migraines">peppermint oil</a> to relieve them instead of reaching for the painkillers. Place a few drops in any carrier oil (see below), put a few dabs onto your temple area, then massage it through your scalp. Give it 15 minutes and see if you feel better.</p><h4>HOW DO I USE PEPPERMINT OIL?</h4><h5>1. Look for products that are made with peppermint oil.</h5>
<p>Many products include Peppermint oil in formulation, but look carefully at the ingredients because those products that have a minty aroma may only contain menthol, which is only one component of Peppermint, and not the essential oil itself; make sure you see the latin name “Mentha Piperita.” </p>

<p>Hairstory New Wash, a detergent-free shampoo alternative, is formulated with essential oils at its core. Peppermint oil is one of these vital ingredients, alongside Sunflower seed, Evening Primrose, and Jojoba, which is especially good for hair.</p><h5>2. Add some to the hair products that you already use.</h5>
<p>Lend your usual shampoo or conditioner some extra power by adding a several droplets of peppermint oil to a generous dollop, then use it as you normally do.</p><h5><br></h5>

<h5>3. Apply it directly with a good scalp massage.</h5>
<p>Measure about a tablespoon of a “carrier,” such as shea, coconut oil, or even jojoba oil and blend peppermint oil into it. A little goes a long way! This is essential because of the fact that undiluted peppermint oil can burn. If you’re curious about what carrier oil to use, learn more about <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/21/which-essential-oils-are-good-for-hair/">what essential oils are good for hair and scalp</a>. Massage the mixture thoroughly and gently into your scalp, being mindful of your fingernails so you don’t scratch yourself. Leave the mixture on your head for about 15 minutes to do its magic, then wash, rinse, and style as usual.</p>
<p><br>Hairstory New Wash, a detergent-free shampoo alternative, is formulated with essential oils at its core. If you’ve ever wondered if <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/27/is-jojoba-oil-good-for-hair">jojoba oil is good for hair</a>, we can help you figure that out. Peppermint oil is just one of many beneficial oils that help hair, alongside Sunflower seed, Evening Primrose, and Jojoba oil.</p><h4>BEFORE YOU USE PEPPERMINT OIL</h4>
<p>• Again, always use peppermint oil by mixing it with a moisturizing carrier oil before you put it on your body.<br>• Avoid getting any kind of essential oils in your eyes.<br>• Make sure to choose an oil that is made to use on your skin, and not one made for diffusers or other method.</p>
<p>Peppermint oil can be a beneficial way to manage scalp issues. We won’t go so far as to call it a cure for hair loss, but there is encouraging evidence that it boosts healthy hair growth. Even if you simply love the smell and the cooling sensation, you’ve got nothing to lose, and a lot to gain.<br> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">* * * * * * * *</p>
<p><sub>Sources:<br><em><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peppermint">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peppermint</a></em><br><em><a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/peppermint-oil-for-hair#research">https://www.healthline.com/health/peppermint-oil-for-hair#research</a></em><br><em><a href="https://www.byrdie.com/peppermint-oil-for-hair">https://www.byrdie.com/peppermint-oil-for-hair</a></em><br><em><a href="http://koreascience.or.kr/article/JAKO201402755363070.page">http://koreascience.or.kr/article/JAKO201402755363070.page</a></em></sub></p>

Benefits of Peppermint Oil For Hair

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<h4 style="text-align: center;">Debates rage about which ingredients belong in our hair and on our skin – and confusion reigns, especially in the US. Elsewhere, regulations are far more stringent and take a guilty-until-proven-innocent approach.&nbsp;</h4>
<p style="text-align: center;">Here are some tips as you navigate product labels and know about bad ingredients in shampoo. We're here to help you find a <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/new-wash/">hair cleanser</a> that doesn't have a single paraben, sulfate, or other harmful ingredient in it.</p>

<p><strong>Not all ingredients are created equal. Taking a single one out of context and looking up a general definition is deceptive and only part of the story. It’s the combinations that count. EWG (Environmental Working Group) is a valuable reference for consumers interested in learning more about ingredients in general. However, one must evaluate ingredients in the context of a formula – how they act together, why they were chosen, and their percentage of the total.</strong></p>
<h5>ARE PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS BEING TESTED FOR SAFETY?</h5>
<p><strong>According to EWG:&nbsp;</strong><em>Cosmetics companies can put just about anything in their products – even chemicals associated with cancer and endocrine disruption. Think your lipstick, toothpaste, and lotion have been tested for safety? Think again. It has been more than 80 years since Congress updated cosmetics regulations in the U.S. But… Congress is considering new legislation that would give the Food and Drug Administration the power to review risky ingredients.</em></p>
<p><strong>Think your lipstick, toothpaste, and lotion have been tested for safety? Think again.</strong></p>
<p><strong>From the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) website:&nbsp;</strong><em>Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act), cosmetic products and ingredients, other than color additives, do not need FDA approval before they go on the market.</em></p>
<p><strong>This is exactly why EWG encourages product users to contact our representatives to pass new legislation, and have labeled their advocacy campaign #makebeautybetter.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>* * *</strong></p>
<p><br>
Meanwhile, from the start, we wanted Hairstory products to comply with global regulations that are more stringent than those in the US. And although they are not yet available in every country in the world, they are formulated to be. But that wasn’t our only motive. We dreamed of a line of products that are as “clean” as they can be, natural if not organic, and as non-toxic to humans and our environment as possible.</p>
<p>Why doesn’t everybody think this way? Well, it isn’t so easy. Sourcing pure ingredients for a hair product takes time. Procuring the highest-quality ingredients takes money. Fragrances alone require complex chemistry. Any company developing products on the fly and on the cheap are likely to make compromises. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Take shampoo, for example. Most are made primarily with water, as are most liquid products, and one of many off-the-shelf detergent systems created by chemical suppliers. Natural or botanical ingredients can be added for marketing purposes rather than function, and a fragrance tops it off, most often synthetic. Some natural ingredients like essential oils are very beneficial for hair care and knowing&nbsp;<a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/21/which-essential-oils-are-good-for-hair/">what&nbsp;essential oils are good for hair</a>&nbsp;can help you find the right product.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/new-wash/">New Wash</a>, on the other hand, wasn’t made by choosing ingredient compounds from a menu. Instead of detergents, we tested a number of essential oils combined with Aloe Vera and fatty cleansers to dissolve impurities in an entirely different way. Sure, we used water, but we infused it with roses (which do more than smell great) and tasked our fragrance house to design one made of essential oils, whatever the extra cost – and list them on our packaging even though we are not required to in the US. As traditional, synthetic fragrances often contain allergens and phthalates, was it worth it? Absolutely. Our non toxic shampoo is something we can hang our hat on.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">* * *</p><h3>
BAD INGREDIENTS IN SHAMPOO TO WATCH OUT FOR</h3>
<p><strong>Here are some problematic ingredients to watch out for:</strong></p>
<h5>UREA</h5>
<p>
Urea is an organic waste compound produced by our bodies. Urea in haircare, however, is made in the laboratory from ammonia and carbon dioxide and used to slow moisture loss from a product during use, to extend shelf-life, and to maintain pH as other ingredients are added. It also slightly alters skin structure to help active ingredients penetrate deeper to increase their effectiveness, and increases moisture content in the top skin layers to make it softer and more supple. However, Urea can release formaldehyde, a human carcinogen. Forms to avoid:</p>
<h5>• Diazolidinyl urea<br>
• Imidazolidinyl urea<br>
• DMDM hydantoin<br>
• Sodium hyroxymethylglycinate<br>
<br>
PARABENS</h5>
<p>
Commonly used in foundations, moisturizers, and shampoos as preservatives (The FDA does not have special rules that apply only to preservatives in cosmetics), studies have shown that these chemicals, especially “long-chained” ones, can mimic the activity of the hormone estrogen in the body’s cells. Estrogenic activity is associated with certain forms of breast cancer, and parabens have been found present in breast tumors.</p>
<h5>PHTHALATES</h5>
<p>
Phthalates are a group of chemicals used in hundreds of products, such as toys, vinyl flooring and wall covering, detergents, lubricating oils, food packaging, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products, such as nail polish, hair sprays, aftershave lotions, soaps, and shampoos. Often hidden under the ingredient listed as ‘fragrance,’ they can – according to animal studies – damage the liver, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive system, particularly the developing testes.</p>
<p><strong>Regulations do not require the listing of the individual fragrance ingredients; therefore, the consumer will not be able to determine from the ingredient declaration if phthalates are present in a fragrance.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Diethylphthalate (DEP) is the only phthalate still commonly used in cosmetics as a solvent and fixative in fragrances. The FDA states:&nbsp;</strong><em>Regulations do not require the listing of the individual fragrance ingredients; therefore, the consumer will not be able to determine from the ingredient declaration if phthalates are present in a fragrance. Also, because the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA) does not apply to products used exclusively by professionals – for example, in salons – the requirement for an ingredient declaration does not apply to these products.</em></p>
<h5>SULFATES</h5>
<p>
<a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2019/01/15/get-sulfates-out-your-life-and-your-hair/">Sulfates</a>&nbsp;are aggressive detergents made of sulfur-containing mineral salts. The most common are Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). Sulfates are powerful, cheap and everywhere – not just in lathering shampoos, body washes, face cleansers, and toothpastes, but also in household cleaners, laundry detergents, and dish soaps. In fact, because they are so effective, sulfates are also used in the manufacturing and construction to degrease heavy machinery. The problem in shampoo? By stripping all the protective oils from your scalp and hair, sulfates overshoot the mark. They are too aggressive.<br>
<br>
• They wash away natural proteins and water-proofing sebum on the scalp.<br>
• They lift the cuticle of the hair and leave the cortex vulnerable.<br>
• They can cause scalp irritation or skin irritation, which can lead to hair loss.<br>
• They can cause follicle stress, which can lead to weak hair&nbsp;<a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2019/03/05/how-have-healthy-hair/">growth</a>.</p>
<p>Although many products are now labeled “sulfate-free,” many of them rely on chemical compounds that are only an atom or two away from a true sulfate. Check your labels for these common forms of sulfates and their close cousins, “sul-fakes”</p>
<p>• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)<br>
• Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)<br>
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate<br>
• Sodium Lauroyl Isoethionate<br>
• Sodium Lauroyl Taurate<br>
• Sodium Cocoyl Isoethionate<br>
• Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isoethionate<br>
• Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate<br>
• Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<br><strong>
* * *</strong></p>
<p><strong></strong><br>
The following list of “stuff we don’t want on our heads” is what we provided to our chemists at the start of the development of our products. Before we go into the&nbsp;shampoo ingredients to avoid, you should learn about ingredients commonly found in non toxic shampoo like keratin or jojoba oil. If you've asked yourself&nbsp;<a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/27/what-does-keratin-do/">what keratin does</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/27/is-jojoba-oil-good-for-hair/">is jojobo oil good for hair</a>, we go in-depth on each topic. Knowing what natural ingredients are beneficial for hair is just as important as knowing what harmful chemicals to avoid.&nbsp;We hold ourselves to the stringent&nbsp;<a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2018/12/04/natural-vs-organic/">EU and Australian standards</a>&nbsp;of “safe before sorry” over the US policy of “Oops. Sorry it wasn’t safe:”<br>
<br>
aliphatic alcohols/hydrocarbons<br>
alkanolamines<br>
aluminum and alumina<br>
amines<br>
animal ingredients<br>
artificial preservatives<br>
artificial fragrance<br>
bromates<br>
colorants<br>
DEA<br>
diglycols<br>
elastomer<br>
fluor<br>
fumarates<br>
glycols<br>
metacrylate<br>
nitrates<br>
nitriles<br>
nitrosam<br>
nitrosamine releasers<br>
nylon<br>
PABA and synthetic sunscreens<br>
PEGs<br>
PPGs<br>
parabens<br>
petrochemicals<br>
phthalates<br>
poloxamer<br>
polyacrylamide<br>
polyquaternium &nbsp;<br>
sulfate detergents<br>
styrene<br>
synthetic AHAS/BHAS<br>
synthetic chelating agents<br>
TEA<br>
urea<br>
vinyl</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>* * *</strong></p>
<p><br>
So, be vigilant and do your best to get clean with the “cleanest” products you can find, and say goodbye to harmful chemicals and syntheticfragrance. There are many ingredients that are beneficial for hair care like peppermint oil or keratin.&nbsp;Learn more about the&nbsp;<a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/27/benefits-of-peppermint-oil-for-hair/">benefits of peppermint oil for hair</a>&nbsp;here.What you put&nbsp;<em>on</em>&nbsp;your body is just as important as what you put&nbsp;<em>in</em>&nbsp;it.</p>

These Ingredients Do Not Belong in Your Hair

essentialoils_applyingtohair2new.jpeg

<h3 style="text-align: center;">There’s a theory that plants evolved along with humans in an ongoing, symbiotic relationship.</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"> Oils that we have learned to extract from the planet’s flora are perfect examples; we’ve been using them to cure all that ails us for ages, and science is now proving their beneficial powers. When finding <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/products/new-wash/">a hair cleanser</a>, it can be helpful to know what essential oils to look for in the ingredients list. Aside from their aromatic properties, essential oils assist us from head to toe, even internally. Here, we focus on the best oils to help keep your hair and scalp in good health.</p>

<h3>ESSENTIAL OILS AND THEIR BENEFITS FOR HAIR</h3>

<h5>Cedarwood Oil&nbsp;</h5>
<p>Cedarwood oil balances the glands in the scalp that produce sebum, your body’s own conditioning elixir. This acts as a powerful promoter of hair growth and even as a way to minimize hair loss. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties to avoid scalp conditions that contribute to hair loss. Its power may be boosted when blended with lavender and rosemary oils.</p>

<h5>Clary Sage Oil&nbsp;</h5>
<p>With the same compounds that make lavender oil so effective, Clary sage oil can improve hair strength, making hair more resistant to breaking, and increase hair growth.</p>

<h5>Evening Primrose Oil*&nbsp;</h5>
<p>Rich in omega chain fatty acids, Evening primrose oil is said to fight oxidation, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy cell growth. It can help with hair loss as a result of nutritional deficiency, environmental exposure such as sun damage, and scalp inflammation. EPO also contains phytoestrogens, which suggests that it may address symptoms of hormone irregularities such as menopause when hair loss is commonly experienced.</p>

<h5>Geranium Oil&nbsp;</h5>
<p><strong></strong>Best-known as an antiseptic to help heal wounds, geranium oil reduces inflammation, balances hormones, and helps maintain skin health. It is useful for treating scalp irritation and to help build keratin for full hair follicle health, the protein that serves as the structural foundation for hair, fingernails, and the outer layer of skin. Learn about <a href="https://uat.hairstory.com/stories/2021/01/27/what-does-keratin-do/">keratin benefits for hair</a> to more fully understand the positive nature of geranium oil.</p>

<h5>Horsetail Oil/Extract</h5>
<p><strong>&nbsp;</strong>Horsetail contains silica, vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, C, E, and K, folate, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. It is thought to increase the rate of hair growth, improve its strength, and potentially reduce dandruff by reducing inflammation and increasing collagen production. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it may help enhance overall circulation directly to benefit the scalp and act similarly to peppermint oil.</p>

<p></p><h5>Juniper Oil&nbsp;</h5>
<p><strong></strong>High in antioxidants, Juniper oil is a leading fighter of free radicals that interfere with healthy cell growth. It also has antiseptic properties so it’s a great way to treat scalp irritation, and its ability to increase blood circulation can promote hair growth.</p>
<p></p>

<h5>Lavender Essential Oil&nbsp;</h5>
<p><strong></strong>Lavender oil is beneficial to both hair and scalp. It has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which can help with scalp issues such as dry scalp, dermatitis, and dandruff. An itchy scalp can also be remedied with lavender oil. Studies also suggest that it can also accelerate hair growth to some extent. This may be partly because of its ability to calm stress, which can factor inhibit normal cellular function in many areas of the body.</p>

<h5>Lemongrass Oil</h5>
<p><strong> </strong>A flake-free scalp is optimal for obvious reasons, both cosmetic and functional. Having a dry scalp is very common, and Lemongrass oil is an effective treatment for dandruff following as little as a week of regular use, with <a href="https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/432407">one 2015 study</a> finding that it significantly reduced dandruff after a week of daily use.</p>
<p></p>

<h5>Rosemary Oil</h5>
<p><strong></strong> If you want to stimulate the growth of stronger, thicker strands, rosemary oil may be your solution with a positive effect on the generation of new cells. This is a great way to enhance your natural hair. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25842469/">According to one study</a>, the application of rosemary oil performed as well as the common hair growth drug minoxidil without the side effects.</p>

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