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You’re probably noticing a pattern with these trends.
Items from menstrual products to even dry shampoos contain some sort of harmful chemical (viaCNN).
One ingredient that’s been getting some heat lately is silicones.
A synthetic compound, silicones are found in numerous hair products.
But are they actually bad simply because they’re not natural?
What exactly are silicones?
According toPattern Beauty, silicones are chemicals that come from silicons or mineral sand.
Silicones' pervasiveness in the haircare industry is due to their beneficial properties.
The barrier that silicones form is waterproof, preventing humidity from ruining the hair.
Additionally, silicones also add volume to the hair, which all sounds great.
But there are major downsides too.
This could potentially lead to a harmful buildup, according toVogue India.
However, it’s worth noting not all silicones are made equally.
Most silicones require the use of harsh, clarifying shampoos for be removed from the hair.
Examples of these silicones are PEG-8 Dimethicone, Bis-PEG-18 methyl ether dimethyl silane, and Dimethicone PEG-X phosphate.
Non-soluble silicones, on the other hand, are the kind you should probably avoid as much as possible.
However, its hydrophobic nature can be beneficial when using heat on the hair.
Evaporating silicones, meanwhile, dissipate from the hair within 10 minutes to two hours, per Allure.
And, unlike the other two, they don’t need to be washed out.
Yet, they still give hair the smoothening, light-reflecting quality that both water and non-soluble silicones provide.
For products with evaporating silicones, look for Cyclomethicone and Cyclopentasiloxane in the ingredients.
How do different hair types react to silicones?
As for the water-repelling aspect, this can create dryness in hair, according toHealthline.
The use of silicones may cause you to use something stronger than your average shampoo, too.
For curlier and kinkier textures, silicones should be used sparingly, particularly the non-soluble variety.
Curlier hair can be more delicate, requiring extra moisture.
Prosesuggests capryloyl glycerin, a humectant derived from coconut oil, as a great silicone alternative.
It’s formulated with a PEG-150 silicone, which is water-soluble, according toNaturally Curly.
5 Bond Maintenance Conditioneris suitable for all hair types and textures.
The setting and holding spray utilizes jojoba oil and silk proteins to soften and smooth out curly hair.
The creme not only protects the hair from up to 450oF but from pollution and UV rays too.
It also comes in a scented version, with fresh notes of apples and oranges.
Also formulated with hemisqualane, theJVN Nurture Hydrating Shampoohas a silicone-free formulaandit was created by our Fab Four favorite.
The shampoo aims to clean hair without robbing the strands of their natural oil balance.
While aloe vera hydrates hair, panthenol strengthens it, adding extra shine.
For defined curls, try theProse Custom Styling Gel.
to determine the best blend for your hair.
