Shampoo use has been on a steady decline over the past few years. Many people are opting to stop using shampoo altogether, while others are switching to alternative hair washing methods like conditioner-only washing or using natural ingredients like apple cider vinegar. There are several reasons behind this growing trend away from traditional shampoos.
The harsh chemicals in most shampoos
One of the main drivers of the no-poo movement is the ingredients found in most drugstore shampoos. Traditional shampoos contain many synthetic ingredients like sulfates, parabens, silicones, and preservatives that can irritate the scalp and damage hair over time.
Sulfates are cleansing agents that create a lather and remove dirt and oil. However, they can strip the hair and scalp of their natural oils, leading to dry, brittle hair. Parabens are preservatives used to extend shelf life. However, research has linked them to hormone disruption and potential increased cancer risk. Silicones like dimethicone coat the hair shaft to make it appear smooth and shiny. But they can build up on the hair over time and require sulfates to remove.
Many people are turning to sulfate-free, paraben-free, and silicone-free shampoos or doing away with shampoo entirely to avoid these harsh chemicals.
The environmental impact of shampoos
The ingredients in conventional shampoos not only affect our hair and bodies, but they also have an impact on the environment. Sulfates and many other chemicals commonly found in shampoos are not biodegradable. They go down the drain, into waterways, and end up polluting lakes, rivers, and oceans.
These synthetic substances disrupt ecosystems and harm marine life. Plastic microbeads were commonly added to shampoos as exfoliants until they were banned in 2018. However, some microplastics still make their way into shampoos during the manufacturing process. Like other microplastics, they can be eaten by fish and work their way up the food chain.
To avoid contributing to this environmental pollution, some people are ditching shampoo or looking for more eco-friendly, biodegradable options.
It could save you money
Going shampoo-free or stretching out washes can also lead to cost savings. The average consumer buys 1-2 bottles of shampoo per month at $5-10 per bottle. So foregoing shampoo could save $60-120 per year. Even switching to a natural shampoo can lower costs since they are often concentrated and need less per wash.
Making your own shampoo at home with ingredients like castile soap and essential oils also reduces costs significantly compared to store-bought. While the transition phase can require some investment in alternative washing and styling products, eliminating shampoo saves money over time.
How often are people using shampoo?
Shampoo usage frequency has declined steadily over the past 5 years:
| Year | Average shampoo uses per week |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 5 |
| 2019 | 4.5 |
| 2020 | 4 |
| 2021 | 3.5 |
| 2022 | 3 |
In 2018, the average consumer used shampoo 5 times per week. By 2022, usage dropped to only 3 times per week. More and more people are stretching out washes and training their hair to produce less oil. Washing hair too frequently with shampoo can strip away protective oils and lead to more oil production.
No poo movement
The growing awareness of the downsides of conventional shampoos has given rise to the “no poo” movement. No poo followers go entirely shampoo-free and rely on alternative washing methods. These include:
– Conditioner only – Using only conditioner to wash hair. May require a transition period for hair to adjust.
– Baking soda and vinegar rinse – Washing hair with a paste of baking soda followed by an apple cider vinegar rinse. Naturally cleanses and balances pH.
– Water only – With time, hair will self-regulate oil production. Only water is needed for cleaning.
– Natural dry shampoo – Absorbs oil with starch-based powders like arrowroot or cornstarch. Brushed out instead of washed away.
No poo devotees cite benefits like healthier hair, more volume, less oil, and cleaner scalps after the transition period. However, it does not work for everyone and can require patience and experimentation.
Alternative shampoo options
For those not ready to take the full no poo plunge, there are some other options that provide a happy medium:
Natural shampoos – Made from plants, minerals, and vitamins with no sulfates, parabens, or silicones. Can be found at natural grocery stores or made at home. Tend to be more expensive.
Low-poo shampoos – Contain only gentle, non-synthetic cleansers like fatty alcohols. Allow for less frequent washing without going completely shampoo-free.
Baby shampoos – Extremely mild formulations without colors, fragrance, or other irritants. Rinse thoroughly as they can leave residue.
Dandruff shampoos – Contain antifungal and anti-inflammatory ingredients to treat an itchy, flaky scalp without stripping oils.
Dry shampoos – Oil-absorbing powders like arrowroot to clean hair without water. Great for stretching washes. Some contain concerning chemicals so check labels carefully.
These options let people continue enjoying shampoo while avoiding harsh chemicals found in most mainstream products.
Health and environmental benefits of reducing shampoo use
While shampoo has its uses, cutting back offers several advantages:
– Less exposure to potentially harmful chemicals that may disrupt hormones, irritate skin, or trigger allergies
– Reduction in plastic waste and water pollution when replacing liquid shampoos with shampoo bars or homemade products
-Preservation of the natural oils that keep hair and scalp healthy
– Promotion of hair growth by avoiding ingredients that can clog follicles and damage the cuticle
– Cost savings from buying fewer bottles of shampoo and using less per wash
– Conservation of water and energy used in the production and transport of shampoo
– Improved hair texture and volume when reducing wash frequency
– Alleviation of dandruff and irritation which can be caused by over-shampooing
So both our bodies and the environment reap rewards when we rethink our shampoo routine. Even just using a little less each time we wash makes a difference.
Conclusion
The days of washing hair daily with harsh shampoos are fading away. Consumers are increasingly aware of issues like scalp irritation, chemical exposure, cost, and eco-impact associated with conventional shampoos. reduced frequency of use. The no poo and low poo movements encourage washing hair less often with gentler products.
While shampoo still serves an important cleansing purpose for many, simple ingredient checks, strategic wash skipping, and exploring alternatives allows people to use it more mindfully. As the statistics show, the mindset shift away from shampoo overuse is well underway. With some small changes to washing and styling habits, we can all maintain healthy, clean hair while benefiting our own wellbeing and that of the planet.