While sulfates can be difficult to avoid when choosing a shampoo, these lathering agents help break down scalp oils and impurities, which tend to be drying to those clients with curly hair. Because curly hair is often more coarse and dry than other hair types, it’s important to opt for products without sulfates, as repeated use can eventually lead to cuticle damage. If you aren’t quite ready to rid your haircare routine of all sulfates, use these products sparingly and in more gentle forms to continue removing dirt and oil without damaging your hair.

You’re probably familiar with the term “parabens,” but do you know what they actually do? Parabens are included in various hair products to prevent the growth of bacteria in your hair but have been found to have adverse side effects such as skin rashes, allergies, and a weakened immune system. While parabens are essential for their preservative and fungicidal properties, the increased potential for irritation poses a concern for curly-haired people as scalp inflammation and irritation has been linked with hair loss. Because curly hair is often more coarse and fragile, our curly hair clients are more susceptible to hair loss caused by parabens and should steer clear of the ingredient when possible!

Do you love the smooth and sleek look of perfectly conditioned curls? Oftentimes, silicone is found in conditioners to provide that slip and shine, even though it is comprised of plastic and repels moisture and air. If you have naturally curly hair and use a product with silicone in it, it will coat your strands in plastic, creating added frizz as moisture is repelled. At the Z Hair Academy cosmetology school in Kansas City, our stylists recommend using sulfate and silicone-free shampoo and conditioner to retain moisture in the hair and promote long-term growth. While silicones may initially leave your hair silky and smooth, continued use will create a build-up on the hair, eventually weighing it down to become dry and dull.

Whether you would like to visit our student salon within the Z Hair Academy cosmetology school in Kansas City or are interested in pursuing a career in hair, we want to talk to you! Contact our cosmetology school in Kansas City or one of our three other locations. We look forward to speaking with you!

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