We demand a lot from our haircare products: they should leave our hair feeling clean and soft, moisturized but never oily, with just the right amount of hold and texture, all while offering a pleasant, refreshing scent. When you add clean ingredients and eco-friendly packaging to the equation, the options can seem limited. Fortunately, many haircare brands are prioritizing sustainability in their operations, making it easier than ever to find high-quality, eco-friendly products that deliver great results.

Ingredients to avoid in hair care products

When you’re aiming for healthier, eco-friendly, non-toxic hair care products, be sure to avoid the following ingredients.

1. Sulfates (SLS and SLES)

• Where Found: Used to create lather in shampoo.
• Why Avoid: Sulfates are known to strip natural oils, which can lead to dryness, irritation, or scalp sensitivity. While many organizations consider sulfates safe for use, there is ongoing debate about their potential drawbacks. For a balanced perspective, I recommend this blog post by Puracy, which, despite being written by a company that avoids sulfates, provides excellent information with well-sourced references for further reading. I also found this article by Healthline to be very insightful. Beyond health concerns, sulfates have a significant environmental impact: some are petroleum-based and may be contaminated with chemicals like 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen, while others are plant-based, often derived from palm oil, which is linked to widespread deforestation.
• Common Names: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES).
• Alternatives: SLS made from sustainably-sourced RSPO certified palm oil is an acceptable eco-friendly option. Otherwise look for other surfactants such as Coco-Glucoside, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, or Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate (SLSA).

2. Parabens

• Where Found: Parabens are used as a preservative, most commonly in hair care products that contain significant amounts of water, such as shampoo and conditioner.
• Why Avoid: Linked to hormonal disruption and potential long-term health effects.
• Common Names: Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben.

3. Silicones

• Where Found: Silicone is found in numerous types of hair care products as it is used to create smoothness and shine. Shampoos and conditioners, serums and oils, hair masks and treatments, heat protectants and styling products are all potential users of silicone.
• Why Avoid: Silicones are synthetic polymers and are not biodegradable.
• Common Names: Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclomethicone, Amodimethicone, Silicone Quaterniums, Trimethicone.
• Alternatives: Natural oils such as jojoba, argan, or coconut.

4. Synthetic Fragrances

• Why Avoid: Often a cocktail of chemicals that can not only trigger allergies, irritation, or dermatitis, fragrance information is considered proprietary and ingredients are not required to be fully disclosed. This allows companies to potentially hide any chemical (especially phthalates, see below) under the umbrella of fragrance, leaving consumers in the dark regarding chemical exposure. Therefore, going fragrance-free is ultimately the safest choice.
• Alternatives: Besides products labeled as “fragrance-free,” seek those using natural essential oils for scent.

5. Phthalates

• Where Found: In synthetic fragrances and products formulated for hold, such as hair spray, mousse, gel, and cream.
• Why Avoid: Phthalates are linked to hormonal disruption and environmental harm.
• Common Names: Diethyl Phthalate (DEP), Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP).
• Look For: Many products are now labeled “phthalate-free”; fragrance-free products or those with natural oils for scent.

6. Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde Releasers

• Where Found: Used as preservatives; in addition, chemical reactions from certain ingredients release formaldehyde as a byproduct. Common products are keratin treatments, Brazilian Blowouts, straightening products, and hair dyes.
• Why Avoid: Known carcinogens and irritants; Persistent in the environment and harmful to aquatic life.
• Formaldehyde-Releasing Ingredients: DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15, Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Methylene Glycol, Formalin, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Bromopol
• Look For: “Formaldehyde-Free” labels; Products that use plant-based preservatives.

7. Petroleum-Based Ingredients

• Why Avoid: In addition to causing potential allergies and creating a barrier that can trap dirt and clog scalp pores, petroleum-based ingredients can potentially be contaminated with harmful substances, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), a group of chemicals that are known carcinogens. And petroleum, of course, is a non-renewable resource with significant environmental consequences associated with extraction. In addition, petroleum-based products are not biodegradable and many are formulated with synthetic polymers, contributing to microplastic pollution. When washed out during rinsing, petroleum-based products enter waterways and persist in the environment.
• Common Names: Petrolatum, Petroleum Jelly, Mineral Oil, Dimethicone, Paraffins & Isoparaffins, Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs), Microcrystalline Wax.
• Alternatives: Natural oils like argan, jojoba, or coconut oil; Plant-based butters such as shea or cocoa.

8. Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs)

• Where Found: Used in a wide variety of hair products as a thickener, emulsifier, humectant, or surfactant
• Why Avoid: Petroleum-based chemical, non-biodegradable; Can cause irritation and be contaminated with harmful byproducts like ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane.
• Common Names: PEG-100, PEG-40.
• Alternatives: Natural Emulsifiers such as lecithin, beeswax, or plant-based emulsifiers. Plant-Derived Humectants like aloe vera, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid.

9. Artificial Colors

• Where Found: Hair dyes, Color-toning shampoos
• Why Avoid: May contain heavy metals or harmful chemicals that can irritate the skin or scalp. Some are carcinogens, many pollute and persist in waterways and soil.
• Common Names: Look for ingredient names such as FD&C, D&C, or specific color numbers (e.g., Blue 1, Red 40). Avoid products with p-phenylenediamine (PPD) or metallic salts. Resorcinol is a common ingredient in artificial dyes that has been linked to hormone disruption.
• Look For: Products labeled as “no synthetic dyes.” However, take care with products that are marketed as using natural colors, as these are not evaluated by the FDA and may be subject to adulteration or contamination. Look for specific ingredients, such as henna, indigo, or cassia for natural color, or plant-based colorants such as beetroot, chamomile, and black tea for subtle coloring effects.

10. Ammonia

• Where Found: Hair dyes
• Why Avoid: While ammonia is effective for long-lasting color, it has potential downsides for health (irritation and allergies), hair integrity, and the environment (water and air pollution).
• Alternatives: Ammonia-free dyes offer a gentler alternative without compromising performance for many users. Monoethanolamine (MEA) and Ethanolamine are less volatile replacements.

11. Toluene

• Where Found: Commonly used as a solvent in hair dyes; may appear in chemical relaxers or straighteners.
• Why Avoid: Toluene is a Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) that is associated with skin sensitivity, respiratory irritation, neurological effects, and reproductive risks.
• Common Names: Methylbenzene, Phenylmethane, Benzene, Methyl-

Tips for Safer Choices

• Prioritize products with plant-based or naturally derived ingredients.
• Seek brands that disclose all ingredients and offer non-toxic formulations.
• Look for certifications that verify clean, safe ingredients.

Refer to the Clean Beauty page for more information on how to choose sustainable, non-toxic beauty and hygiene products.

Clean hair care brands

My favorite zero waste hair care brands

The following brands take clean ingredients to the next level as they combine their non-toxic products in bottles and containers that are easily recyclable and not petroleum-based like plastic.

Zero waste hair care products

Natural shampoo & conditioner

Go Green: Shampoo bars or plastic-free bottles

Did you know that 80% of shampoo’s content is plain old water? That’s a lot of water used for production by a $31 billion industry. The weight and volume creates need for containers (usually plastic) and more carbon emissions from transportation of these goods.

The aforementioned hair care brands have some amazing traditional shampoos, and they make washing your hair as good for the planet as it can be as far as liquid shampoo goes. But for the absolute greenest option, try out a shampoo and conditioner bar. They are small, lightweight, and can easily be found plastic-free, in minimal to no packaging. There are a TON of excellent choices out there, and many primarily focus on shampoo and conditioner bars alone.

First, local soap makers are plentiful. If you can find one near you that makes a shampoo you like, go with that. Buying locally-made products is always best, providing they are made with sustainable, ethical, and non-toxic ingredients and practices.

Shampoo bar brands

As I’ve scoured the internet, these are the most mentioned and highly-rated shampoo bar brands I have come across.

How well does a shampoo bar work? I was skeptical, and at first it does feel strange to be rubbing a bar of soap on your hair. I have pretty thick hair that requires a lot of liquid shampoo, and I was surprised to find the bar worked pretty well. It does take a bit longer to get the lather throughout my hair and scalp, but after giving the bars a chance, I have gotten used to washing my hair with them.

I would be cautious with colored hair, at least fashion colors. My daughter tried it out on her blue highlights and it faded them pretty seriously with just one wash.

The jury is still out on zero waste hair conditioner for me. I’ve only tried two brands so far and I don’t feel like a bar is capable of conditioning as deeply as I would like, at least with my hair thickness.

My favorite zero waste liquid shampoos

If shampoo and conditioner bars just aren’t going to work for you, you can find regular liquid product options packaged in aluminum bottles or recycled plastic from all the companies listed above.

• My current favorite is Plaine Products shampoo and conditioner. The shampoo lathers well and leaves my hair feeling clean, and the conditioner is thick and my hair feels so soft afterward. They have two scent choices, as well as an unscented option. I really like that you can send back your empty bottles for reuse, and frankly I love all that this company is doing.
• Captain Blankenship is also a great shampoo in an aluminum bottle. The scent wasn’t for me, but my husband didn’t mind it.
• Hand in Hand is a very affordable zero waste brand for shampoo and conditioner, as well as body wash and lotion. Products are packaged in aluminum bottles and are free of palm oil, parabens, phthalates, SLS/SLES, EDTA, PEGs, or BHT. The scents are nice and they leave hair feeling clean and soft. The brand can be found at Whole Foods.

Natural dry shampoo

• Fat and the Moon Lavender & Cocoa Dry Shampoo is made with simple organic and vegan ingredients and comes highly-rated. It is packaged in a refillable aluminum shaker; refills are sold in home compostable packaging. Also available at Zero Waste Store.

• The Earthling Co. Dry Shampoo is vegan, cruelty-free, and comes in both light and dark shades. Packaging is made from 100% post-consumer recycled paper.

• Captain Blankenship Dry Shampoo is good for all hair types and colors and comes in an aluminum bottle.

• EcoRoots Dry Shampoo is vegan, cruelty-free, and does not contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or aluminum. It is packaged in a glass jar with a metal lid.

Shower cap

Go Green: Reusable shower cap

• This vegan, cruelty-free EcoTools shower cap is lined with organic cotton.
  • Also available on Amazon.
• Kitsch has a variety of adorable shower caps made from recycled polyester.
  • Also available on Grove

Recycling shower caps

Plastic caps can go with your plastic film recycling; I would removed the elastic band first and throw in the trash.

Non-toxic hair dye

Go Green: Avoid harmful chemicals

There are some chemicals in hair dyes that have been linked to cancer, namely aromatic amines. Avoid products that contain p-phenylenediamine, para-phenylenediamine, 4-aminoaniline; 1,4-benzenediamine; p-diaminobenzene;1,4-diaminobenzene; 1,4-phenylene diamine. Formaldehyde is the other main ingredient to watch out for. Read this article by Made Safe to learn more.

• Arctic Fox is vegan and cruelty-free with a great selection of fashion colors. My daughter has used this non-toxic hair color on her hair and liked it. It’s easy to use and results in vibrant color.
• Radico is a vegan, Made Safe certified brand.
• Byrdie and The Honest Consumer have great lists of more safe hair dyes.

How to recycle hair color tubes

Schwartzkopf hair color packaging can be recycled via Terracycle’s free mail-in program. Terracycle also has a Saloncycle program, with different options for recycling hair color tubes and more. Glo Recycling is another option. You can put just about any salon waste like used foils, gloves, product, combs, and more in their mixed waste box.

Eco-friendly hair styling products

The broad selections available from Aveda, Amika, and JVN probably have everything you need for styling or treating your hair, but there are many other great eco-friendly products beyond those. Below is a sampling of some other great zero waste hair care products.

Gel

• Plaine Products Styling Gel
• SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Defining Styling Gel or Coconut & Hibiscus Edge Gel 

Hair spray

• Captain Blankenship Sea Salt Spray
• Earth Harbor Beach Waves Ocean Hair Spray

Mousse

• SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Frizz-Free Curl Mousse
  • Also available on Amazon

Pomade

• Public Goods Wax Pomade
• Badger Balm Pomade

Recycling hair care product packaging

Recycle empty aluminum and plastic bottles as accepted in your curbside bin, as well as paperboard boxes. Recycle glass jars and bottles as able in your area. Note that plastic pumps cannot go into your recycling since they contain a metal coil. See more about recycling beauty containers here.

Eco-friendly hair tools

Go Green: Biodegradable materials

Eco-friendly combs

Wide-tooth combs

• Kitsch wide-tooth comb made with recycled materials.
• Zero Waste Store wide-tooth comb made from sandalwood.
• Redecker oiled olive wood afro comb.
• f.e.t.e. wide tooth bamboo comb

Fine-tooth comb

• Redecker beechwood comb

Can combs be recycled?

Plastic combs cannot be recycled. Those made from natural materials can be composted.

Eco-friendly hairbrushes

Can you recycle a hair brush?

Plastic brushes are not recyclable. Brushes made from natural materials can be composted.

It’s probably not something that you’ve ever thought about, but hair can be composted. So when you clean your brush out, you can put the hair into the compost bin. If you happen to be a hairstylist/barber, you can actually order a box from Terracycle to collect the hair you sweep off the salon floor and they will compost it for you. You can also donate hair (and fur) to an organization like Matter of Trust, who uses it to make mats that soak up oil and other petrochemicals from waterways.

Hair Hot Tools

i.e. blow dryers, flat irons, curling irons

How to recycle hair dryers & other hair tools

If still in working condition, donate. Otherwise, Best Buy will accept hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons for recycling. Drop off in store. You can also recycle through Terracycle’s free program.

If you use InStyler products, you can send in your old products to be recycling and receive a 35% discount on future purchases.

Hair Ties & Accessories

As already mentioned, Kitsch has all the hair accessories you need–clips made from recycled plastic or metal, hair ties and bows, and more. They also make very popular shampoo bars.

I am very impressed with the quality of the items I have purchased for myself and my daughter. Here are the items I can personally attest to:

• Open shape claw clip
• Rose gold mini claw clip
• Enamel snap clips
• Heatless hair curler in satin and 6 pack heatless curling rollers.

Check out more super cute hair accessories from this women-owned company.

Terra Ties is a small company that makes biodegradeable hair ties made with natural rubber extracted from rubber trees and organic cotton. They are colored with natural dyes and packaged in 100% recycled materials.

Coyuchi’s Bare Organic Scrunchy comes in a set of 3 GOTS certified organic cotton french terry scrunchies, made in a Fair Trade certified factory.

Reuse hair ties

Repurpose hair ties as household elastics, ties for plant stakes, elastics for electronic cords and more.

Are hair ties recyclable?

Hair ties and other plastic accessories cannot be recycled. Those made from cotton and natural rubber could be composted if cut into very small pieces. Take broken metal clips to a scrap recycler.

Zero waste shaving

Go Green: Shaving soap or plastic-free shaving cream

Zero waste shaving soap

I’m actually quite surprised that I like using a shaving soap as much as a cream or gel. They are easy to find from any local soap company, or there’s plenty to try if there aren’t any near you. Any of the aforementioned shampoo bar brands will have a shaving soap option. The two I’ve used and really like are EcoRoots Organic Shaving Soap and Ethique 2-in-1 Shampoo and Shaving Bar.

Eco-Friendly shaving cream

• Dr. Bronner’s Shaving Soap
• Eos Shave Cream
• Lush Shaving Cream
• Hand in Hand Shave Cream
• Aveda men pure-formance shave cream

Are shaving cream cans recyclable?

Empty steel shaving cans are recyclable in your curbside bin. Plastic tubes may be depending on your local recycler.

Sustainable razors

Go Green: Reusable non-plastic razors

Stop using plastic single-use razors and get yourself a reusable one with blade refills. There is a large price range, from hundreds of dollars for a nice, fancy safety razor down to the grocery store brands.

Standard razors

If safety razors aren’t your thing, there are other sustainable razor options.

The Bulldog Original Bamboo Razor is a solid, economical choice. The company is plastic-free, cruelty-free Also available at Amazon.

If you do need a disposable razor option, Schick Intuition Bamboo has a bamboo handle and its blades contain 75% recycled steel. The handle does feel quite flimsy but it gets the job done.

For more options, check out ZeroWasteStore and EarthHero.

Recycling razor blades

Metal safety razors and blades can be recycled with a scrap metal recycler. Gillette has a free mail-in program with Terracycle that accepts ALL brand of razors, cartridges, and packaging for recycling.