1. Sulfates
Sulfates are strong detergents found in many shampoos that create a rich lather, but they can also strip the scalp of its natural oils and disrupt its microbiome. This can lead to dryness, irritation, and inflammation—conditions that are especially harmful if you’re already dealing with hair thinning. For those experiencing hormonal disruptions, sulfates can further disrupt the scalp environment, making follicles more fragile and slowing healthy regrowth.
2. Parabens
Parabens are preservatives used to extend a product’s shelf life, but they’re known to act as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body’s hormone balance. Since hormones play a major role in hair growth cycles, exposure to parabens may worsen shedding or make it more difficult for hair to grow back. Avoiding them can help reduce unnecessary hormonal interference while supporting healthier follicle activity.
3. Phthalates
Phthalates help fragrances and formulas last longer, but they’re also linked to hormonal disruptions and potential reproductive effects. For anyone experiencing hair loss connected to stress, menopause, thyroid issues, or other hormonal factors, phthalates may add an extra layer of imbalance.
4. Silicones
Silicones coat the hair to make it feel silky and smooth, but they can also create heavy buildup on the scalp and strands. Over time, this buildup can weigh hair down, clog follicles, and make thinning hair look flatter and less voluminous. When hormones are already affecting growth, clogged follicles and reduced scalp circulation can make the issue worse, leaving hair fragile and prone to breakage.
5. Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing chemicals are sometimes found in hair-smoothing treatments and certain products, but they’re harsh, irritating, and potentially harmful. They can inflame the scalp, weaken hair at the root, and disrupt the natural growth cycle. Because formaldehyde exposure has also been linked to endocrine effects, it’s especially important to avoid if your hormones are already out of balance.
6. Harsh Alcohols
Alcohols like isopropyl alcohol are extremely drying and can strip moisture from both the scalp and the hair shaft. Dryness and brittleness can exacerbate shedding and make existing thinning more visible. For anyone with hormonal disruptions—who may already have drier, more fragile hair—harsh alcohols can amplify breakage and interfere with a healthy scalp environment, slowing the regrowth process even more.