According to recent research published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology and reported in The New York Times, "more than 100 types of common consumer products contain at least one, and often multiple, chemicals linked to cancer or reproductive and developmental problems."

Evidence like this drives home that when it comes to choosing household and beauty products, it's increasingly important that the potential harms don't outweigh the benefits. Below we break down a few common shampoo ingredients that we avoided when formulating Wash shampoo, to ensure that it's as safe + clean as it is effective. 

 

Synthetic Fragrance

Synthetic fragrances are chemically created and are typically petroleum based. Chemicals found in synthetic fragrances include phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors: manmade chemicals that may mimic or interfere with the body's hormones. Synthetic fragrances are much cheaper to include in formulations than essential oils, but is it worth the risk? 

 

PEGs (aka Polyethylene Glycol)

PEGs are ingredients often used to thicken shampoo. Shampoo consistency is very important, and the challenge in formulation is making something that it thick enough to transfer from your hands to your scalp. While they may make your shampoo feel luxurious, PEGs are synthetic and can not only be harsh on hair and scalp and cause damage with continued use, they are often contaminated with ethylene oxide, which is a known human carcinogen.

 

Sodium Chloride

Otherwise known as table salt, sodium chloride is a common ingredient in shampoo that adds thickness to the formula. If you have a sensitive scalp, you should avoid it as it can make your scalp dry and itchy...and scratching an irritated scalp over time can lead to hair loss. 

 

The Arey Difference

Arey Wash is formulated without Sulfates, Parabens and Phthalates to gently cleanse the hair and deliver our clinically efficacious peptide to the scalp with every use, and includes a 100% natural fragrance from cedar and sage.