Experts from the Pharmacists’ Chamber in Lower Saxony, Germany, have warned that care products may contain certain active ingredients that harm the skin and hair.

They explained that some shampoos contain sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate, which particularly damage fine and brittle hair, and may also cause scalp dryness and itching.

Instead, shampoos containing urea should be used due to its moisturizing effect.

The chamber experts added that some skin and hair care products contain silicones like dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane, and cyclohexasiloxane, which are especially unsuitable for oily scalps as the product becomes excessively rich.

Light shampoos containing zinc or salicylic acid are most suitable in such cases.

The pharmacists’ chamber pointed out that preservatives in skin care products may have hormonal effects and cause allergies upon contact, as well as scalp irritation. Common preservatives include parabens, formaldehyde releasers, and benzyl alcohol.

Just like preservatives, fragrances can cause allergies, especially for sensitive skin and scalp. Common fragrances include limonene, linalool, and citral.

Fragrances can cause allergies, particularly in sensitive skin and scalp.