Education is key in hair care application. Many products are available, but there's often a lack of explanation about their use and benefits. To begin, it's crucial to understand whether a product should be applied on the scalp or off it. Throughout my career I have gotten so many questions from confused guests about what is a serum vs leave in and when to use and who should use.
Conditioners, Hair Masks, Serums, and Leave in Conditioners are all meant to be applied off the scalp: ponytail down. Now let us discuss endocrine disruptors and silicones.
Off-Scalp Products:
Understanding the concerns about endocrine disruptors is crucial, particularly when it comes to personal care products. It's important to differentiate the application and effect of a hair conditioner from products meant for skin application.
Hair conditioners, Leave-in Conditioners and Hair Serums are formulated specifically for hair strands, which are essentially dead cells. They work on the surface of the hair to detangle, smoothen, and enhance shine. The key here is that conditioners are not designed to be absorbed by the scalp or skin. Unlike skin, hair does not have the ability to absorb ingredients in the same way due to its structure.
When applied as intended – predominantly on the mid-lengths to ends of the hair, away from the scalp – the exposure of any ingredient to the scalp or skin is minimal. This minimal contact reduces the potential for systemic absorption significantly. Moreover, conditioners are typically rinsed out within minutes, further limiting any potential for absorption.
Therefore, the likelihood of a hair conditioner acting as an endocrine disruptor is greatly reduced due to its mode of application and use. T
Demystifying Silicones in Hair Care: Embracing Their Benefits When Used Correctly
I'm not afraid of silicones in hair care, and you shouldn't be either. Let me explain why silicones, often vilified in the beauty industry, can actually be beneficial. It's all about understanding their role, using them correctly, and maintaining a balanced approach to hair care. In a world where terms like "silicone-free" and "organic" are tossed around, it's essential to dig deeper into how these products should be used.
Understanding Hair Serums and Their Ingredients:
Seal with a serum. A hair serum is a finishing product — when your style is finished you apply. It is designed to seal the cuticle, reduce frizz, and restore shine. Unlike conditioners that work internally, serums act externally. The inclusion of silicones in serums plays a crucial role. They lock the cuticle and seal the hair shaft, preserving the moisture from your pre-shampoo treatments, shampoo, and leave-in conditioner. Remember, the key to avoiding damage is not avoiding silicones but understanding how to use them effectively.
Balancing Clean and Effective Hair Products:
While it's important to be mindful of harmful ingredients, especially those absorbed by the scalp, we must also recognize that hair care is a delicate balance. Some ingredients, like certain silicones, might not be ideal for the scalp but are beneficial for the hair strands. It's about finding that sweet spot between being clean and being effective.
Silicones often get a bad rap for causing build-up, leading to heaviness and a lack of moisture absorption but when used judiciously, they offer numerous benefits. They can protect against heat damage, add shine, and reduce frizz. The trick lies in selecting the right silicone for your hair type and incorporating clarifying treatments to prevent buildup.
How to Use Hair Products Effectively:
Remember, the efficacy of hair products hinges on how you use them. Before applying a silicone-based serum, use a leave-in conditioner. This step ensures that your hair retains necessary moisture while the serum works to keep unwanted moisture out. Understanding the purpose and proper application of each product is as crucial as the products themselves.
Silicones, when misunderstood, can seem harmful, especially when applied before heat styling. However, a well-informed approach to using silicones can transform your hair care routine. They're not just about making your hair look good; they're about keeping it healthy and protected. Join me in embracing the versatility and benefits of silicones in hair care, as we learn to use them responsibly and effectively.
Remember, it's not just about the ingredients; it's about how you use them. Let's continue to explore and understand the world of hair care together, always striving for healthier, happier hair.
