Hairdressers

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Many of us go for the purse-friendly shampoo and conditioner options at our local supermarket or drugstore, but can the cheaper products which claim to do wonders actually be doing our hair more damage than good?

Hair loss expert Sara G. Allison states that ‘You usually get what you pay for’, when it comes to hair products. She says that ‘cheaper shampoos are generally mass produced and likely to contain harsher detergents and chemicals which could be irritants for sensitive scalps. The most well-known and common ingredient being Sodium Laurel Sulphate (SLS). Whereas a more expensive shampoo will usually contain higher quality ingredients, such as essential oils, plant or fruit extracts, and botanicals.’

Sam Burnett from Hare & Bone Salon also agrees, saying, ‘cheaper shampoos and conditioners can contain ingredients like parabens, sulphates and silicones which make your hair ‘look’ healthy. They don’t, however, improve hair health.’

These ingredients that are often found in cheaper hair products can strip hair of its natural oils, being especially problematic for those who already have dry hair. They can also be an issue for those who have colour treated hair. The cheaper options often produce a thick, foamy lather which can make you feel like you’re getting a deep clean, but actually is due to potentially harmful detergents which contribute to the drying effect.

Continued use of cheaper shampoos can result in a synthetic build up or residue in your hair, and conditioners that contain silicones can coat your hair giving it the appearance of being soft and sleek, however can be damaging hair over time and can cause hair breakage.

Salon quality products are more concentrated, tend to be much more gentle cleansers and have higher levels of ingredients that produce the results you long for.

When choosing your shampoo and conditioner, look at the ingredients on the back and if you see any of the following, give it a second thought:
• Sodium Lauryl Sulphate/Sodium Laureth Sulphate
• Silicone
• Fragrance
• Artificial Colours
• Alcohol
• Chlorine

Instead, look for products that contain natural ingredients to nourish and protect your hair. Also try and look for products which are formulated for your specific hair type, whether that be oily, curly, dry, fine or any other. Even better, speak to your hair stylist and have them recommend the best, quality products for you. No one knows your hair better than the person who cuts and styles it regularly.

Sharnie at Salon One has years of experience in styling and treating all hair types, colours and textures. If you are unsure about the types of shampoos, conditioners and other hair products that are right for you and that do not contain harmful ingredients, contact Salon One to book a personal consultation with Sharnie. She can also advise on any other hair needs such as professional colouring, cuts, event styling and much more.

For more information about the services that Salon One offer, to book an appointment or to book a personal consultation with Sharnie, please visit saloneone.com, call +44 (0)1695 227310 or email info@salononeormskirk.