Are Parabens Bad for Hair? What the Experts Say

With so many ingredients in hair care products, it can be challenging to determine what's good versus not good.

In this article, we'll discuss whether parabens are bad for hair and what they are. We'll also share what to look for when choosing hair care products and the benefits of using paraben-free options.

What are parabens?

Parabens are synthetic preservatives commonly used in hair and other personal care products to prevent mold, bacteria, and yeast from growing, which extend the shelf life of products, explains Dr. Ross Kopelman, a Hair Transplant Surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration.

In hair care, you'll often find parabens in shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. There are several types of parabens, which you’ll find listed on the ingredient list, including methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, and ethylparaben.

Are parabens bad for hair?

“When it comes to hair specifically, parabens don’t necessarily cause hair loss or damage directly,” says Dr. Kopelman. “However, parabens may irritate the scalp, especially if you have sensitive skin.”

Scalp irritation can lead to inflammation, explains Dr. Kopelman. Chronic inflammation isn’t good for overall hair health because it can create an environment that might slow down hair growth or even contribute to hair thinning over time.

Why are parabens bad for you?

“While the main concern with parabens isn’t so much direct damage to the hair, there are potential long-term health risks,” says Dr. Kopelman. “Parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, leading to concerns about hormone disruption and links to conditions like breast cancer.” 

Parabens may also cause other changes in the body, including cholesterol and blood sugar levels and thyroid function.

Dr. Kopelman says that while the science is still developing, many people prefer to avoid parabens to play it safe.

Allergic Reactions to Parabens

Parabens can reduce healthy bacteria on the skin, weakening the immune system. Therefore, a paraben allergy or sensitivity is possible.

You may have an allergy or sensitivity if you're using any personal care products with parabens and notice red, itchy, dry skin or a skin rash. In this case, stop using the product. If the symptom(s) don't clear up, consult a dermatologist.

Paraben Alternatives

“If you’re looking to avoid parabens, there are plenty of great alternatives out there,” says Dr. Kopelman. “Best of all, many paraben-free hair care products today are formulated to be just as effective without relying on synthetic preservatives.”

Dr. Kopelman recommends looking for products that use natural preservatives like vitamin E, rosemary extract, or other plant-based options. These ingredients can help preserve the product without the potential risks associated with parabens.

Oakwell Cosmetics is one of our favorite skin and hair care lines that uses plant-based ingredients and leaves out parabens. 

Benefits of Paraben-Free Hair Products

The benefits of using paraben-free products include:

• Hair health - Chemicals, like parabens, can strip your hair’s natural oils. The fewer chemicals your products have, the better they are for your hair’s health.
• Overall well-being - Parabens and other chemicals can also affect overall health, so avoiding them is good for the whole body.
• Less irritation - Using products with natural ingredients typically results in less irritation.
• Eco-friendly - Parabens can negatively impact the environment when they enter the water supply, whereas natural ingredients are better.

Which shampoos don’t contain paraben?

More and more shampoos are being made without parabens and sulfates, and most are labeled as such. For example, Oakwell Cosmetics shampoos and other hair care products are paraben and sulfate-free.

Tips for Choosing Hair Care Products

The following tips can help you choose the right hair care products for you:

• Opt for natural ingredients - The best skincare ingredients are natural, including plant-based oils and vitamins. They’re good for your skin and the environment. 
• Know your hair type - Many hair products are made for specific hair types. For example, a strengthening shampoo is best for dry, damaged hair, while a moisturizing shampoo works well for all hair types.
• Do your research - Research the brand, ingredients, and customer reviews to make informed choices about your products.
• Check expiration dates - Some paraben-free products may have a shorter shelf life, especially if they aren’t made with any other preservatives. However, some have natural preservatives, says Dr. Kopelman.
• Consult a hair care professional - A dermatologist or other hair care professional can offer personalized guidance to help you choose appropriate hair care products for you.

Are Parabens Bad for Hair: Conclusion

We hope you found this article helpful and feel confident choosing the right hair products for you. While parabens don’t usually directly damage the hair, they can cause irritation and other health concerns. Therefore, it’s best to avoid them if possible and opt for natural ingredients instead.