SLS, SLES and Silicones – How Do They Affect Your Skin and Hormones?

We’re becoming more mindful of what we put into our bodies – but how often do we think about what we apply to our skin and scalp?

Many common hair and skincare products contain ingredients like silicones, SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate), and SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate). These substances can impact the health of your skin and scalp – and in some cases, even your hormones.

In this post, we’ll break down what these ingredients actually do and why you might want to avoid them.

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Silicones – Creating an invisible film on skin and hair

Silicones are commonly used in shampoos, conditioners, and skincare to create a smooth, shiny, and soft feel. They work by forming a protective coating around each hair strand and over the skin, giving the illusion of hydration and nourishment.

But what really happens?

• Can clog pores → Silicones form a barrier that prevents the skin from breathing and absorbing moisture, which may lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and irritation.

• Disrupts the skin’s natural balance → By trapping moisture, silicones can interfere with your skin’s own hydration process, eventually causing dryness and itchiness – especially on the scalp.

• Can contribute to blemished skin → Silicone residues from rinsed-out shampoo and conditioner can end up on your skin, potentially causing breakouts on your back, chest, and forehead.

• Blocks nutrients → The barrier created by silicones can also block vital nutrients from being absorbed by your hair and skin.

If you want truly healthy hair and radiant skin, it might be worth switching to silicone-free products made with natural ingredients that nourish from within.

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SLS and SLES – Drying sulfates that may affect hormones

SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) and SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) are foaming agents used in shampoos, body washes, and cleansers. While they give that “squeaky clean” feeling, they can also come with side effects.

• Can dry out skin and scalp → Sulfates strip away the skin’s natural oils, often resulting in dryness, tightness, and irritation.

• Can disrupt oil production → When your skin is over-dried, it may overcompensate by producing excess oil, leading to an imbalanced and sensitive complexion.

• May contain harmful contaminants → Some sulfates can be contaminated with impurities that are suspected endocrine disruptors, interfering with the body’s hormonal systems.

If you struggle with dry, sensitive, or irritated skin, switching to sulfate-free products could make a noticeable difference.

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What should you choose instead?

To avoid these potentially harmful ingredients, opt for natural, organic alternatives that are free from silicones, SLS, and SLES.

✅ Sulfate-free shampoos – Look for formulas with gentle cleansers derived from coconut. These clean without stripping your skin or scalp.

✅ Natural oils instead of silicones – Hair products with almond oil, argan oil, or jojoba oil add shine and protection without coating the hair in residue.

✅ Skincare with active, plant-based ingredients – Natural extracts and oils support your skin’s health over time, instead of masking it with synthetic effects.

 

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Make a conscious choice for your skin and hair

Being mindful of the ingredients in your beauty routine can make a real difference – not just for your health, but for the planet.
By choosing products free from silicones, SLS, and SLES, you’re giving your skin and hair the best possible chance to thrive – naturally and without unnecessary chemicals.

👉 Ready to explore our gentle, hormone-friendly alternatives? Discover our full range of silicone- and sulfate-free products today!

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