Are Shampoos Linked to Hair Loss? Hair Experts Share Their Myths and Top Tips

by Abhinav G. Movie Enthusiast

A little hair loss during shampooing can be expected, but excessive shedding can cause problems. But can shampoo cause hair loss? You can find out more by reading the following!

It can be relaxing to shower, but then you notice your hair falling out of your scalp. Losing some hair while shampooing is regular, but it is a red flag if your hair loss is severe. Why is this happening? Is your shampoo causing hair loss? Is it possible to stop hair from falling by changing your shampoo? It is unlikely. It could be your shampoo brand but not the formula causing excessive hair loss. You should also pay attention to how often you shampoo your hair and how much you use.

This article will discuss shampoo ingredients that can cause hair loss. It will also explain how to prevent hair fall from shampooing.

Can frequent shampooing cause hair loss?

Yes, frequent shampooing does not cause hair loss or hair fall. It is common to lose around 100 hair strands per day. Shampooing does not remove the hairs detached from the base of the follicle. Instead, if you don't shampoo, many of these hair strands will remain on your head and wait to be combed or washed. But the more you don't shampoo, the more hair will fall out.

Regular shampooing is an excellent idea to promote healthy hair. It stimulates the scalp and creates optimal conditions for hair growth.

Shampoo Ingredients that Make Your Hair Fall Out Should Be Avoided

Anecdotal evidence suggests that shampoos may contain multiple ingredients which can cause hair loss. These include sulfates and mineral oil, petroleum, and alcohol percentages, as well as preservatives.

Sulfates

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate are commonly added to shampoos worldwide. These powerful detergents have excellent foaming properties and cleaning properties. These sulfates can cause hair damage by making your hair dry, frizzy, and limp. Sulfates can also strip your hair of natural oils, which could lead to poor hair growth.

Sodium Chloride

Shampoos are thickened with sodium chloride (salt). A small amount of Sodium chloride is good for hair strands and the scalp (especially if you have oily hair), but excessive amounts can cause itchy scalps, dryness, and hair loss.

Formaldehyde

Shampoos are treated with Formaldehyde to extend their shelf life and to keep them stable. The safest amount of Formaldehyde in cosmetic products is optimal. High levels of Formaldehyde can cause hair damage, allergies, and hair loss.

Shampoos are known to have many formaldehyde donor chemicals, which are chemical compounds. This means shampoos can slowly release the preservative into your airways, irritating your eyes, nose, and scalp.

Although no clinical research has shown that Formaldehyde is the sole cause of hair loss or damage, it can be combined with other chemicals to make hair fall more likely.

Alcohol

Many shampoos contain alcohol, such as Cetearyl and Stearyl. Combining these alcohols with sulfates can dry out hair and scalp by stripping your natural oils. This causes hair loss.

Propylene Glycol and Propylparaben

Shampoos can contain Propylene Glycol or Propylparaben as a humectant, allowing nutrients to reach your scalp. A high concentration of humectants can cause hair loss and irritation. It can also affect your hormone balance, leading to decreased hair growth.

Fragrances

Avoid artificial fragrances and colors, especially if your hair and skin are sensitive. Although they can leave a pleasant scent after shampooing, they can cause severe scalp irritations and hair fall.

Phthalates

Phthalates can be added to cosmetics and shampoos as perfume fixatives or solvents. Phthalates have similar effects to artificial fragrances. These solvents can cause hair loss and damage to your hair's health. These solvents can also be harmful to the environment.