Top 10 Ingredients to Avoid in Haircare Products (and WHY)

We all want strong, shiny, healthy hair—but sometimes, the very products we use to nourish our strands contain ingredients that do more harm than good. Many conventional haircare formulas are loaded with harsh chemicals that can strip moisture, irritate the scalp, or cause long-term damage. At Daily Dose Haircare, we believe in clean beauty powered by ingredients that love your hair back. Here's a list of the top 10 ingredients you should avoid in your haircare routine—and why.

1. Sulfates (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate & Sodium Laureth Sulfate)

Why to avoid: Sulfates are strong detergents that create foam, but they also strip the hair of its natural oils. This leads to dryness, frizz, and scalp irritation—especially in curly, color-treated, or dry hair types. 

2. Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, etc.)

Why to avoid: Parabens are used as preservatives, but they may disrupt hormone function and have been linked to health concerns. They're unnecessary in modern, well-formulated products.

3. Silicones (Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, etc.)

Why to avoid: While they give a temporary smooth feel, silicones can build up over time, weighing hair down and blocking moisture from entering the shaft. This buildup can leave hair feeling dry and dull.

4. Phthalates

Why to avoid: Often hidden under the term “fragrance,” phthalates are known endocrine disruptors. They’ve been linked to health concerns and have no place in clean haircare. 

5. Synthetic Fragrances

Why to avoid: “Fragrance” on an ingredient list can be a cocktail of unknown chemicals. These can trigger allergies, irritation, and even migraines. Opt for naturally scented products or fragrance-free alternatives.

6. Alcohols (Drying types like Isopropyl Alcohol)

Why to avoid: Some alcohols can severely dry out the hair, making it brittle and prone to breakage. Not all alcohols are bad—fatty alcohols like cetyl or stearyl are actually moisturizing.

7. Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents

Why to avoid: Found in some smoothing treatments and preservatives, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen. It can also cause scalp irritation and allergic reactions.

8. DEA/MEA/TEA (Diethanolamine, Monoethanolamine, Triethanolamine)

Why to avoid: These emulsifying agents can irritate the scalp and have been linked to potential health risks. Better, safer alternatives are now available.

9. Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs)

Why to avoid: Used as thickeners or softeners, PEGs can be contaminated with harmful chemicals like ethylene oxide, which is toxic. They can also dry out hair over time.

10. Coal Tar Dyes

Why to avoid: Often listed as FD&C or D&C followed by a color and number, these dyes can be harsh on the scalp and potentially carcinogenic.

Clean Haircare is Better Haircare

When shopping for hair products, always read the ingredient label. Avoiding these harmful additives can lead to healthier, shinier, more manageable hair—and a happier scalp.

At Daily Dose Haircare, our Clean Moisture Leave-In Conditioner and Deep Conditioner are formulated without harsh chemicals and packed with nourishing, vegan, cruelty-free ingredients. Because your hair deserves the best.