Can Shampoos Cause Hair Loss?

Shampoos don’t directly cause permanent hair loss, but certain shampoo ingredients can seriously damage hair. In particular, shampoos that contain harsh chemicals such as sulfate and paraben are likely to weaken hair strands by irritating the scalp. Overuse of such shampoos containing these type of ingredients can cause dryness and breakage, depleting the scalp’s natural oil.

Improperly formulated shampoos can clog the hair follicles, and prevent healthy hair growth. However, using the right shampoo and caring for the hair on a regular basis can help to prevent and slow down hair loss. Therefore, it is important to choose shampoos that suit the hair type and do not contain harmful chemicals.

Shampoo Ingredients That May Cause Hair Loss

Common shampoo ingredients that may increase the risk of hair loss by damaging the hair include:

Sulfates (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, SLS): Sulfates can over-cleanse the natural oils in the scalp, which may cause the scalp to become dry.
Parabens: May irritate the skin and affect sensitive scalp.
Alcohol: Excessive amounts of alcohol may cause hair to dry and weaken.
Silicones: Although silicones provide temporary shine, in the long term they can build up on the scalp and clog hair follicles.
Formaldehyde: It is used as a preservative in some shampoos and can cause hair loss.
Phthalates: They may damage the scalp through allergic reactions and increase hair loss over time.
Artificial Fragrances and Colorants: They may cause the scalp to become irritated and sensitive.
DEA and TEA (Diethanolamine and Triethanolamine): These ingredients may have a damaging effect on the protein structure of the hair.

Natural shampoos that are free of these ingredients will be more beneficial in terms of hair health protection.

Can Shampoos Help to Stop Hair Loss?

Shampoos, which contain natural and essential ingredients for hair health, can help improve hair quality and slow/stop hair loss. Shampoos containing the following ingredients may be beneficial for hair health:

Biotin: Strengthens hair strands and supports healthy hair growth.
Keratin: Strengthens the structure of hair and prevents breakage.
Caffeine: Stimulates hair follicles and boosts hair growth.
Zinc Pyrithione: Used for dandruff treatment and improves scalp health.
Vitamin E: Improves blood circulation by nourishing the scalp. This helps the scalp to recover faster.
Coconut Oil: Hydrates hair strands and forms a protective film against environmental factors.
Argan Oil: Improves hair elasticity and and has a moisturizing effect.
Saw Palmetto: May help prevent or slow down male pattern hair loss by reducing DHT levels.
Aloe Vera: Soothes and hydrates the scalp.

Shampoos containing these ingredients can help to slow down hair loss and, if used correctly and regularly, to build a healthier hair structure.