If you're feeling lost trying to find a safer alternative to your conventional hair products without all the harsh chemicals, then you're in the right place! I know how overwhelming it can be with so many options on the market, each claiming to be "the best." Hair care is personal, and what works for one person might not work for another, making it even trickier to find the perfect match. Trust me, I’ve been there—testing out countless shampoos and conditioners, only to realize that most conventional products are packed with toxic ingredients that may make your hair look good temporarily but come with hidden health risks. That’s exactly why I made the switch to non-toxic hair care years ago, and let me tell you it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

There’s a common misconception that natural and non-toxic hair products are expensive or some may be ineffective, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, my hair has never been softer, smoother, and healthier since switching, and the best part? They smell absolutely divine! Before I dive into my top recommendations, let’s go over some of the harmful ingredients you should avoid in your shampoos and conditioners.

Disclaimer: Just a quick note—this blog includes a few affiliate links, so if you choose to make a purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a little way to help support my work, and I truly appreciate it. Thank you!

Common Ingredients You Need To Avoid In Your Hair Products

It’s crucial to know which harmful ingredients to avoid when shopping for shampoo and conditioner because, let’s be real—what we put on our hair doesn’t just stay there. Many conventional hair care products contain chemicals that may seem to work wonders initially but can actually do more harm than good over time. From skin irritation and hormonal imbalances to excessive dryness, oiliness, hair loss, and even allergic reactions, these toxic ingredients can wreak havoc on both your scalp and overall health. Some are even linked to potential carcinogenic risks—yikes! The worst part? Many of these chemicals are hidden under misleading labels, making it tricky to spot them at first glance. But don’t worry! The beauty industry has come a long way, and we now have plenty of non-toxic alternatives that deliver the same (if not better) results without all the risks. So, before you pick up your next shampoo or conditioner, let’s go over the top ingredients you’ll want to avoid for healthier hair!

PS: If you want more non-toxic products like this, go check out The Clean Catalog.

1. Sulfates

Some of the most common sulfates you’ll come across in shampoos are Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), and Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate. These surfactants create a rich lather to remove dirt and oil, but they can also strip natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even increased oil production.

2. Silicones

Common silicones like Dimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, and Cyclomethicone give hair that silky, smooth feel but can also build up over time, weighing it down and making it look dull. Often found in conditioners, these ingredients create a temporary shine while preventing moisture from properly penetrating the hair shaft.

3. Parabens

Parabens are preservatives that extend a product’s shelf life. You can easily spot them as they always end in “-paraben,” such as methylparaben, ethylparaben, and butylparaben. While they help prevent mold and bacteria growth, they can also disrupt hormones and irritate the skin.

4. Phthalates

Phthalates are often hidden in fragrances, making them tricky to spot on ingredient labels. These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors and have been linked to potential health risks, including hormone imbalances and even cancer.

5. Polyethylene Glycols (PEG)

PEGs are petroleum-derived compounds used as thickening agents and humectants to help retain moisture and stabilize product formulations. While they improve texture and consistency, they may also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin.

6. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is commonly used as a preservative and a hair-straightening agent in some hair care products. However, it is a known carcinogen that can cause skin and scalp irritation and allergic reactions.

Shampoo and Conditioner for All Hair Type

ATTITUDE Nourishing Hair Shampoo and Conditioner

A plant-based, EWG-verified duo designed to hydrate and repair dry, damaged hair. Infused with grapeseed oil and olive leaves, this vegan formula gently nourishes while promoting healthier, shinier locks.

Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil (moisturizing), olive leaves (antioxidant-rich), shea butter (deep conditioning), watercress & Indian cress (high in vitamins and minerals).

Where to Buy: Amazon, Company’s Website

Avalon Organics Revitalizing Lavender Shampoo and Conditioner

A nourishing, plant-powered formula designed to cleanse and restore normal to dry hair. Infused with lavender essential oil and botanical extracts, it leaves hair soft, smooth, and naturally shiny.

Key Ingredients: Lavender essential oil (calming), quinoa protein (strengthening), aloe (hydrating), babassu oil (moisturizing), vitamin E (nourishing).

Where to Buy: Amazon

100% Pure Honey & Virgin Coconut Restorative Shampoo & Conditioner

A deeply moisturizing, sulfate-free duo designed to hydrate, strengthen, and restore dry, damaged hair. Infused with nutrient-rich botanicals, it nourishes the scalp while enhancing softness, shine, and manageability.

Key Ingredients: Virgin coconut oil (hydrating), honey (moisturizing), aloe (soothing), pro-vitamin B5 (strengthening), flax seed (nourishing), sea kelp (mineral-rich).

Where to Buy: Amazon, Company’s Website

Acure Ultra Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner

A moisture-boosting, vegan formula infused with argan oil and pumpkin seed oil to nourish, soften, and enhance shine. Free from parabens, sulfates, and harsh chemicals for a clean, healthy hair routine.

Key Ingredients: Argan oil (moisturizing), pumpkin seed oil (nourishing), cocoa butter (softening).

Where to Buy: Amazon

Shampoo & Conditioner for Curly Hair

HiBAR - Curl Shampoo & Conditioner

A solid, salon-quality shampoo and conditioner set designed to nourish, define curls, and reduce frizz without plastic waste. Made with natural ingredients for bouncy, moisturized curls while being sulfate-free, paraben-free, and vegan.

Key Ingredients: Fermented tomato extract (enhances curl definition), olive oil-derived silicone alternative (smooths), rice protein (strengthens), babassu butter (moisturizing), pracaxi butter (nourishing).

Where to Buy: Amazon

EVOLVh SmartCurl Hydrating Wash & Conditioner

A dream duo for curls, delivering hydration, frizz control, and enhanced curl definition. Packed with targeted natural ingredients, it gently cleanses while restoring softness, strength, and shine for all curl types.

Key Ingredients: Essential nutrients (boost hydration), amino acids (strengthen hair), natural oils (enhance softness), botanical extracts (reduce frizz), and plant-powered cleansers (gently cleanse without stripping).

Where to Buy: Amazon

Wellnesse Smoothing / Enriching Shampoo and Conditioner

A curl-loving duo designed to hydrate, tame frizz, and enhance softness. Infused with botanical ingredients, it locks in moisture while strengthening strands for healthier, more defined curls.

Key Ingredients: Tomato fruit extract (strengthens & supports regrowth), rice & keratin amino acids (restore hair structure), shea butter (locks in hydration & protects from heat damage), coconut oil (nourishes scalp & reduces buildup), verbena leaf oil (adds a fresh scent).

Where to Buy: Amazon

Rahua Hydration Shampoo & Conditioner

A luxurious, plant-powered duo infused with Amazonian oils and natural protein-bonding sugars to deeply hydrate, strengthen, and restore shine. Perfect for dry, frizzy, or dull hair, while being color-safe and sulfate-free.

Key Ingredients: Rahua oil (nourishes & fortifies), sacha inchi (rich in omega-3 to strengthen hair), morete oil (protects from UV damage), mango & passion fruit (hydrating & aromatic), natural protein-bonding sugars (enhance moisture retention).

Where to Buy: Amazon

Shampoo & Conditioner for Colored Hair

Innersense Color Awakening Hairbath & Color Radiance Conditioner

A nourishing duo designed for medium-textured, color-treated, and chemically processed hair. Gently cleanses, hydrates, and enhances vibrancy while maintaining hair health with organic, plant-based ingredients.

Key Ingredients: Raw coconut & shea butter (moisturize & soften), honey (locks in moisture & adds luster), pumpkin seed oil (preserves color), avocado & rice bran oil (strengthen & nourish).

Where to Buy: Amazon, Company’s Website

EVOLVh SmartColor Protecting Shampoo & Conditioner

A breakthrough eco-luxe duo designed to gently cleanse, nourish, and strengthen color-treated hair. Enhances color retention, boosts shine, and improves hair health while protecting against damage from the coloring process.

Key Ingredients: Targeted amino acids (increase strength & protect color), nourishing botanicals (hydrate & soften), grapefruit & floral essence (refreshing scent).

Where to Buy: Amazon