Haircare is an integral part of our beauty routine. But with pollution plaguing urban and metropolitan spaces, the water flowing through our taps may inadvertently carry traces of toxic chemicals that damage our hair.
As digital creator Dr. Berg mentioned in an Instagram reel, some of these culprits include chlorine, fluoride, alcohol, and sodium lauryl sulfate. To find out how to treat and avoid chemical damage, indianexpress.com spoke to haircare experts.
“Chlorine can strip natural oils and irritate your skin and scalp, leading to split ends. If you swim frequently, chlorine can lighten your hair by reacting with the melanin, causing it to lose its natural colour,” said Dr Varsha Reddy, Dermatologist at Zennara Clinics.
On the other hand, fluoride can dry out your hair and take away its shine. “In large amounts, it can cause scalp inflammation, making it prone to irritation. This can lead to the suppression of hair follicle growth or the induction of oxidative stress,” she said.
However, she pointed out that not all alcohols are bad for your hair. “While short-chain alcohols like isopropyl alcohol can whisk away moisture by penetrating the hair shaft, leading to dryness and damage, long-chain alcohols, derived from natural fats like coconut, palm, or vegetable oils, are much safer. These help with deep conditioning and keep hair smooth,” she explained.
Spot hair damage before it gets too bad (Source: Freepik)
“Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a lathering agent in shampoos. However, it’s a harsh detergent that can strip natural oils from the scalp and hair, leading to dullness, frizz, and even adverse reactions like hair loss,” she said.
“Use clarifying shampoos to remove chlorine buildup and deep-conditioning treatments to restore moisture. Rinse hair with fresh water before and after swimming. For hair products with alcohol that cause dryness, switch to alcohol-free formulas and use leave-in conditioners or hair masks to replenish moisture,” suggested Dr Jagdish Sakhiya, Founder And Chief Dermatologist, member of DocTube.
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He added that SLS can strip natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. Incorporate gentle, nourishing products with natural ingredients to restore balance.
What is the best way to protect hair from these chemicals?
According to Dr Sakhiya, you can use a clarifying shampoo to remove chemical residues and thoroughly rinse hair with water immediately after exposure. “Regularly deep condition your hair to maintain moisture and health. You can apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to create a barrier,” he said, adding that using a hat, scarf, or protective cap to shield your hair can also go a long way in protecting hair.
Looking for particular symptoms that indicate the presence of these chemicals in hair? Dr Sakhiya suggested looking out for the following symptoms that indicate chemical damage:
- Dryness: Hair feels brittle or lacks moisture.
- Breakage: Increased hair breakage or split ends.
- Dullness: Loss of natural shine and luster.
- Scalp Irritation: Itching, redness, or inflammation on the scalp.
- Texture Changes: Altered texture, such as increased frizziness or limpness.
He said that if you notice these symptoms, consider reducing chemical exposure and using hair treatments to restore health.
