There are many claims about what can be added to hair as a thinning hair remedy. There is new, yet controversial, information on what can be avoided to reverse hair loss. The claimed culprit is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), an ingredient in most personal care products from shampoos to toothpastes. SLS is found in over 95% of all commercial shampoos and its stated function is removal of grease. It is found in larger amounts in garage floor and engine detergents. This may sound immediately revolting, but it should be made clear that the amount of SLS in industrial solvents is considerably higher than that in shampoo.
It is widely thought that eliminating of SLS containing shampoo is the ultimate thinning hair remedy. Some believers have gone as far as eliminating shampoo use completely. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure of SLS to the skin does actually damage hair follicles, but the theory of SLS avoidance as a thinning hair remedy is called weak by some since shampoo is almost immediately rinsed off the skin and hair. There are arguments to the contrary that residue will always remain.
While the claims are contentious, it is still clear that SLS is in no way good for you. Shampoo has anywhere from 10-20% content of this chemical which is nowhere near innocent. It is definitely advisable to rinse thoroughly after using it and to go with a "less is more" mantra. As with any chemical, some people may actually be more sensitive to SLS and there may be some truth to the theory of its exclusion as a thinning hair remedy. It is quite possible that, if you are experiencing hair loss, SLS is to blame.
Recent studies with SLS toothpaste at the University of Oslo in Norway showed that, over a three month period, those who avoided the chemical in toothpaste reported a 70% reduction in canker sores and gum irritations. There have been a few more studies that definitely concluded SLS as a harmful chemical in toothpaste. The studies on avoiding SLS in shampoo as a hair thinning remedy are still inconclusive. The ones that have been done were performed on animals and the solutions used were differently concentrated than the shampoo we use and left on for a much longer period of time. Still, the results all point to negative effects related to exposure.
Due to the recent hype about SLS, several manufacturers have come out with SLS free shampoos, conditioners, soaps and toothpastes. While they are more expensive, they are also completely natural and have gathered a large consumer base with believers of the SLS hypothesis. Those who have switched over suggest sticking with your new choice in hair products for at least a few months. Just like most remedies, your body will need some time to adjust to the change and show real results.
The support for the elimination of SLS as a thinning hair remedy is strong and growing. Users report thicker, more vibrant hair and even a reduction in dandruff. The best thing about this theory is that, even if it sounds unbelievable, trying it is absolutely risk-free and there is nothing to lose.
Hair loss in women can be a difficult thing to deal with. If you're experiencing hair loss or have questions, the best thing to do is to keep yourself informed and learn as much as possible at RestorationOfHair.com , where you'll find lots of free resources on dealing with women's hair loss.
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