Product Selection - What I've Learned

There are many factors to consider when it comes to product selection, such as consumer recommendation, accessibility and of course, price point.  In addition to those criteria, these are things I TRY to adhere to when deciding which products to purchase.  The reason I say “try” is there are always exceptions.  For example, there are some “non natural” products that my hair loves so I use them, however, I also take extra steps after use (such as more deep conditioning).  There are SO many products on the market geared toward natural hair care, which makes it really difficult to choose.  Especially when you are like me and want to try everything!!

A general guide to product selection:

SAY YES TO

Oils (Jojoba, Coconut, Olive, Almond, Tea Tree, Argan)

Aloe

Honey

Flax Seed

Sodium PCA (humectants)

Peppermint, Lavender and Rosemary (growth stimulation)

Shea Butter (moisturizer)

SAY NO TO

Parabens

Mineral oil

Petroleum

Synthetic ingredients

Sulfates (ex:  sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate)

Isopropyl alcohol (drying agent)

Cetearyl alcohol *update – upon further research, I find that there is nothing technically wrong with this ingredient and have removed it from the list.

*disclaimer – this is a general guide. There may or may not be exceptions to either list.

A few tips

·    Do not try more than two new products at a time

If you want to be able to determine if the product and your hair are a good match, this is a good rule of thumb.  It is more difficult to discern if you are simultaneously trying multiple new products.

·    Order of Ingredients

The further down on the ingredient list, the smaller the percentage of the ingredient in the product, which of course means the smaller effect it will have on your hair.    

·    Styling products are extremely important because they stay in your hair longer than any other product. Those that contain synthetic ingredients can build up and dry out your hair over time causing breakage.  Ingredients such as petroleum and mineral oil have been known to coat the hair shaft and seal out moisture. They are also believed to attract dust and dirt particles, causing the hair to look dull.

What are some of things you look for when it comes to product selection?