The Welpr Rating is determined by a scoring formula. The formula takes into account the products safety, user satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing. Click here to learn more.
Best Non-Toxic Hair Volumizer in 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
Medically reviewed by Olushola Awoyemi
PhD Environmental Toxicology
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Our use of affiliate links does not influence how we rate products. Learn more about our affiliate policy here.
What you should know when choosing non-toxic hair volumizer on Welpr:
- Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
- We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
- The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
Find Non-Toxic Hair Volumizer
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Create Lift Volumizing Foam - Innersense
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$28.00
Product Details
- Provides a lightweight styling foam to uplift roots and build body.
- Shapes, defines, and smooths both wet or dry hair while enhancing natural texture and offering a light hold.
- Suitable for all hair types and can be used to add texture, boost volume, define curls, and as a root refresher between washes.
- Formulated with organic ingredients including aloe vera, honey, lavender, orange flower oil, and frangipani, promoting peace and balance.
- Ingredients are organically grown and sustainably sourced without chemicals from transparent plantations, orchards, and farms globally.
- Free from silicones, resins, plastics, sulfates, parabens, silicones, phthalates, propylene glycol, ethoxylates, synthetic fragrances, gluten, PEG, MEA, TEA, MIA, EDTA, and artificial dyes.
- Vegan and cruelty-free, emphasizing ethical harvesting and sourcing.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Voluminous
- Moisturizing
- Soft
Cons Mentioned
- Erratic
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Water, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Gel*, Cyamopsis Tetragonolobus (Guar) Gum*, Sorbitol, Sclerotium Gum, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Water*, Organic Rooibos African Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract*, Gluconolactone, Sodium Benzoate, Calcium Gluconate, Potassium Sorbate, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Glycerin, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract*, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract*, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract*, Aspalathus Linearis Leaf Extract*, Eucalyptus Globulus Extract*, Citric Acid, Maltodextrin, Honey Extract*, Linalool* Certified Organic *A Natural Component Of Essential Oils
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Plus Size Perfect Body Mousse - amika
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$30.00
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Volumizing
- Thickening
- Creamy
Cons Mentioned
- Expensive
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Water/Eau/Aqua, Butane, Propylene Glycol, Propane, AMP-Acrylates/Allyl Methacrylate Copolymer, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn/Argousier) Fruit/Seed Oil, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, VP/Acrylates/Lauryl Methacrylate Copolymer, Polysorbate 20, Laureth-4, PEG-8 Dimethicone, Aminomethyl Propanol, Ceteth-10, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance/Parfum, Benzyl Benzoate, Hydroxycitronellal, Limonene, Citronellol, Coumarin
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Natural Cloud Airlight Volumizing Mousse - AG Care
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$28.00
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Lightweight
- Soft
- Non-crunchy
Cons Mentioned
- Pricey
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua (Water/Eau), Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Pvp, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Gluconolactone, Polysorbate 20, Lactic Acid, Polyquaternium-70, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Sodium Benzoate, Polyglyceryl-10 Caprylate/Caprate, Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Dipropylene Glycol, Limonene, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Citric Acid, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract, Malic Acid, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Calcium Gluconate, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract, Panicum Miliaceum (Millet) Seed Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Tilia Tomentosa Bud Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Linalool
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Natural InstaVolume Volumizing Mousse - EVOLVh
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$29.00
Product Details
- Natural volumizing mousse with long-lasting volume, style memory, curl definition, hold, and bounce.
- Formulated with plant-based ingredients like tapioca, flax, rice bran, and lecithin for natural volumization and smooth, hydrated, frizz-free hair.
- Designed to leave hair feeling soft and natural without stickiness or crunchiness.
- Thick foam formula that conditions hair and provides immense shine.
- Free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, silicones, gluten, synthetic fragrances, and GMOs.
- Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly product.
- Contains ingredients like red raspberry for moisturizing and UV protection, and black cumin seed oil to guard against heat damage and help prevent pigment depletion.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Volumizing
- Lightweight
- Fragrance-free
Cons Mentioned
- Sticky
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Water, Glycerine*, Manihot Esculenta (Tapioca) Root Starch*, Flax Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil*, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract*, Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil*, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil*, Lecithin*, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil*, Rosa Canina Flower Extract+, Achillea Millefolium Extract+, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract*, Cymbopogon (Lemongrass) Schoenanthus Extract*, Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract+, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil*, Vitis Vinifera (Red Grape) Seed Oil*, Vaccinium Macrocapron (Cranberry) Seed Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil*, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil*, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil*, Cinnamomum Cassia Leaf Oil*, Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Flower Oil*, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Leaf Oil*, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil*, Citric Acid, Tocopherol From Rosa Canina (Rose Hip)*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Juniperus Virginiana (Cedarwood) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Leaf Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Commiphora Guidotti, Citrus Aurantium (Neroli) Oil, Gluconolactone*, Dehydroacetic Acid*, Benzyl Alcohol*
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Peptide Volumizing Hair Treatment - The INKEY List
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$13.99
Product Details
- Lightweight serum formulated to help increase hair thickness and volume from the first use.
- Contains 2% Keranutri to enhance hair thickness and volume.
- Includes 2% ACB Pisum Sativum Peptide for increasing hair volume.
- Application method: shake well, apply to hands, massage together, and work through wet or dry hair.
- Designed for all hair types, addressing common concerns such as limp and thin hair which may be caused by diet, product buildup, hormones, genetics, or stress.
- Utilizes peptides, chains of amino acids, to support proteins naturally found in hair.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Silky
- Volumizing
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Runny
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua (Water/Eau), Pisum Sativum (Pea) Peptide, Betaine, Glycerin, Panthenol, Phenoxyethanol, Heptyl Glucoside, Polyquaternium-37, Citronellyl Methylcrotonate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ceratonia Siliqua (Carob) Seed Extract, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Hydroxide, Polyquaternium-16, Heptanol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Polyquaternium-7
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Intensive Spray - Bondi Boost
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$20.00
Product Details
- Addresses thinning and aging hair by strengthening hair to reduce split ends and support healthy hair growth.
- Formulated to promote thicker, fuller-looking hair with a powerful blend of nourishing ingredients.
- Can be applied to both wet and dry hair by spritzing at the roots and massaging in daily.
- Features a lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs easily into the hair.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
- Made in Australia.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Nourishing
- Thickening
- Shiny
Cons Mentioned
- Greasy
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice*, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Melaleuca Alternafolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Oil, Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5), Propanediol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract*, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower (Roselle) Extract*, Hylocereus Undatus Fruit (Dragonfruit) Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract*, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Leaf Extract, Chamomille Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance, Citric Acid
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Feed Your Roots Organic Mousse - Yarok
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$32.00
Product Details
- Infused with organic ingredients such as Black Currant, Coconut Oil, Beet Root, and Blueberries.
- Designed to volumize hair by using a blend of botanicals, vitamins, minerals, and essential oils.
- Suitable for all hair types, aims to promote hair growth, improve elasticity, and strengthen hair.
- Formula is nutrient-rich, enhancing hair's volume and dimension without flaking or weighing it down.
- Application requires only a golf ball-sized amount on either damp or dry hair.
- Does not contain gluten, sulfates, alcohol, parabens, or other harsh chemicals.
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free, adhering to ethical production practices.
- Part of profits contribute to the Pachamama Alliance, supporting environmental conservation efforts in the Amazon Rainforest.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Natural
- Soft
Cons Mentioned
- Expensive
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Distilled Vitamin-Enhanced Aqua (Water), Non-Gmo Corn Or Rice Extract, Organic Vegetable Glycerol, Organic Herbal Extracts Of: Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Extract, Beta Vulgaris (Beet Root) Extract, Kham Thai, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Blueberry), Natural Plant Sourced Vitamins B1, B2, B3 & C, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Plant Sourced Kosher Vegan Xanthan Gum, Plant Sourced Kosher Vegan Potassium Sorbate, Organic African Black Soap, Vitamin A (Plant Sourced Infusion), Essential Oils Of: Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary), Lisea Cubeba (May Chang)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Voluminous Spray - Rahua
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$34.00
Product Details
- USDA certified organic hair refresher
- Plant-based, alcohol-free volumizing spray
- Provides lift, light, tousled texture and soft hold
- Citrus juice extracts break down surface oils and revitalize hair and scalp
- Contains lavender and eucalyptus for a fresh, natural aroma
- Can be used between washes or throughout the day to revive hair
- Made with powerful rainforest grown, plant-powered ingredients
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Natural
- Light
- Refreshing
Cons Mentioned
- Ineffective
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract*, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) Extract*, Zea Mays (Corn) Silk Extract*, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract*, Saccharum Ofiicinarum (Sugar Cane)*, Lavandula Angtstifolia (Lavender) Oil*, Citronellol, Farnesol, Lilial, Limonene*, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf (Limonene) Oil*, Citric Acid, Sodium Chloride, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Pectin* Organic Ingredient*
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organics Volumizing Foam - John Masters Organics
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$29.00
Product Details
- Contains over 70% organic ingredients
- Non-aerosol dispenser for application
- Offers long-lasting hold
- Cruelty-free product
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Volumizing
- Light
- Control
Cons Mentioned
- Dry
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera)*, Water, Glycerin, Caprylyl/Capryl Glycoside, Alcohol, Pullulan, Decyl Glucoside, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Boswellia Carterii Oil (Frankincense)*, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Quillaja Saponaria Wood Extract*, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil*, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea), Sodium Surfactin, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate, Trehalose, Babassuamidopropyl Betaine, Acacia Senegal Gum*, Galactoarabinan, Sorbitol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Limonene, Linalool
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Volumizing Root Spray - Oway
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$35.00
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Volumizing
- Lasting
Cons Mentioned
- Ineffective
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Polysorbate 20, PVP, AMP-Acrylates/Allyl Methacrylate Copolymer, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Oil, Tonic, Cinnamomum Camphora (Camphor) Bark Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Seed Oil, Citrus Reticulata Peel Oil, Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Fruit Oil, Cymbopogon Nardus (Citronella) Oil, Pimenta Officinalis (Pimento) Leaf Oil, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Oil, Tagetes Minuta Flower Oil, Abies Alba Leaf Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Sinensis Peel Oil Expressed, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Oil, Tilia Tomentosa Bud Extract, Cotton Seed Oil Glycereth-8, Glycerin, Creatine, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Citric Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Menthol, Sodium Glutamate, Glycine, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Sorbic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Limonene, Citral, Linalool, Citronella, Geraniol, Eugenol, Farnesol
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Ginger Root 10 In 1 Hair Volumizer Spray - Pacifica
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.80
Product Details
- Enhances hair volume and offers 10 benefits including thicker appearance, style extension, and pollution protection.
- Infused with ginger and passionfruit scent.
- Formulated with natural ingredients like passionfruit, abyssinian oil, and dragonfruit.
- Vegan and cruelty-free product.
- Free from parabens, sulfates, SLS, mineral oil, petrolatum, silicone, and sulfates.
- Contains vitamins and antioxidants to nourish hair.
- Designed for all hair types with a lightweight formula that controls oil without drying hair.
- Application involves spraying into clean hair and blow drying to activate volume.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Lightweight
- Volume
- Fragrant
Cons Mentioned
- Greasy
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua, Polysorbate 20 (Coconut Source), Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Panthenol (Vitamin B), Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Moringa Pterygosperma Seed Extract, Arginine (Amino Acid), Algae Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Flower Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Parfum (Natural)
Our Product Rating System
First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.
Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.
Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.
Welpr Rating:
5.0/5
Part 1: Product safety
We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.
Part 2: Consumer satisfaction
We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).
Part 3: Ethics & Environment
When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.
Common Harmful Chemicals in Hair Volumizer
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Phthalate
Phthalates, linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and cancer, are banned in the European Union but remain prevalent in U.S. cosmetics. They are widely used in personal care products, such as nail polish, fragrances, and eyelash glue and other products. A significant loophole allows phthalates to be added to fragrances without disclosure. Health concerns include endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential carcinogenicity.
Sources:
Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Phthalates, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Phthalates in Cosmetics, Phthalates in cosmetic and personal care products: concentrations and possible dermal exposure, A Survey of Phthalates and Parabens in Personal Care Products from the United States and Its Implications for Human Exposure, Phthalates Factsheet, BPA and Phthalates: Chemicals found in our homes
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Sodium laureth sulfate, derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, is a surfactant used in sudsy products like toothpaste, detergents, and shampoos. While it acts as a cleansing and emulsifying agent, it can sometimes contain toxic impurities such as 1,4-dioxane. This chemical has raised health concerns due to its potential to cause skin, lung, and eye irritation, organ toxicity, and, primarily because of contamination by 1,4 dioxane, cancer.
Sources:
The Dirty Dozen: Sodium Laureth Sulfate, 15 Toxic Trespassers, SKIP PRODUCTS MADE WITH SLES (AND SLS, TOO!), Campaign for Safe Costmetics: 1,4-DIOXANE, WHAT IS SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE: CHEMICAL FREE LIVING, A new formula for a mild body cleanser: sodium laureth sulphate supplemented with sodium laureth carboxylate and lauryl glucoside,
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is recognised as a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant according to ICSC. It may cause allergic reactions and eye irritation as stated by the HSDB. Exposure may even result in eye burns, as per CAMEO. Depending on its form - which may range from a solid (90-98% purity), to a paste (30-41%), or an aqueous solution (28-50%) - it can significantly irritate skin and eyes, with adverse effects escalating with increased concentration. Despite these hazards, it is not a skin sensitizer according to CHEMINFO, while eChemPortal: ERMA and MSDSonline endorse its classification as an irritant.
Triclosan
Triclosan is a synthetic pesticide with antibacterial properties commonly added to detergents, soaps, and various personal care products such as deodorants and toothpastes. Although it lacks the ability to combat viruses causing colds and flus, it's used in products like body washes, disinfectants, and some toothpastes to resist bacterial growth. In 2016, the FDA limited its use in antibacterial soaps, but the compound is still permitted in other products. The European Union prohibited its presence in food-contact items in 2010. Exposure to triclosan has been associated with hormone disruption, increased breast cancer risk, liver damage, and the development of resistant super-germs.
Sources:
Triclosan Exposure, Transformation, and Human Health Effects, Are antibacterial products with triclosan fueling bacterial resistance?, Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, The Effects of Triclosan on Puberty and Thyroid Hormones in Male Wistar Rats, Triclosan is a potent inhibitor of estradiol and estrone sulfonation in sheep placenta, The in Vitro estrogenic activities of triclosan and triclocarban, Antibacterial Soap? You Can Skip It, Use Plain Soap and Water, Environmental Exposure of Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota to Triclosan and Triclocarban, Triclosan: Environmental Fate and Effects, Chemical Profile: Triclosan / Triclocarban, 5 Things to Know About Triclosan, Underarm Harm? Whats So Bad About Antiperspirants?, Some flame retardants and the antimicrobials triclosan and triclocarban enhance the androgenic activity in vitro, Triclocarban Enhances Testosterone Action: A New Type of Endocrine Disruptor?, Triclosan, a commonly used bactericide found in human milk and in the aquatic environment in Sweden
Benzene
Benzene is a colorless, sweet-smelling, highly flammable liquid that evaporates quickly into the air and slightly dissolves in water. It's a byproduct of both natural processes and human activities, used extensively in the U.S production of other chemicals for plastics, resins, nylon, rubbers, lubricants, dyes, detergents, drugs, and pesticides. Present in crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke, benzene is also released into the air from burning coal, oil, gasoline stations, and vehicle exhaust. Short-term exposure may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and irritation, while long-term exposure leads to blood disorders, reproductive effects, and even leukemia. Benzene has been classified by EPA as a known human carcinogen, and regulations apply to various industry sectors with potentially high exposure risks.
Sources:
Triethanolamine
Triethanolamine appears to cause occupational asthma and allergic contact dermatitis in machinists and photographers, as well as liver and kidney damage in animals with high-dose feeding. It's noted to be an irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, with potential to cause skin sensitization, though the rate of skin sensitization in humans is low. Triethanolamine has low acute toxicity, with median oral LD50 values of 4,190-11,260 mg/kg in rats and 5,300-8,000 mg/kg in guinea pigs, and a median dermal LD50 greater than 2,000 mg/kg in rabbits. Triethanolamine is not carcinogenic, developmental toxicant, or toxic to the reproductive system. However, chronic exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage.
Sources:
Safety assessment of triethanolamine and triethanolamine-containing ingredients as used in cosmetics, Toxicology of mono-, di-, and triethanolamine, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Ethanolamine Compounds (MEA, DEA, TEA And Others), The Dirty Dozen: DEA-related ingredients, Chemical Profile, Special Chem, Safety assessment of triethanolamine and triethanolamine-containing ingredients as used in cosmetics
Diethanolamine
Diethanolamine is a chemical found in various consumer products like shampoos, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Acute exposure in humans can result in irritation of the nose, throat, and skin. However, no detailed data is available on its chronic, reproductive, developmental or carcinogenic effects on humans. Studies on animals reveal that acute oral exposure can influence the liver, blood, kidney, and central nervous system, while dermal exposure has been connected with an increased incidence of liver and kidney tumors in mice. Production of first-degree burns, skin irritation, occupational asthma, kidney, and liver injury risk, and potential skin sensitization are some other adverse effects associated with diethanolamine.
Sources:
Chemical Safety Facts: Ethanolamines, NTP Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Diethanolamine, California Environmental Protection Agency: Diethanolamine , International Agency for Research on Cancer: Diethanolamine, Initial List of Hazardous Air Pollutants with Modifications, What is the Toxics Release Inventory?, OPINION CONCERNING DIALKYL- AND DIALKANOLAMINES AND THEIR SALTS IN COSMETIC PRODUCTS, Ethanolamine Compounds (MEA, DEA, TEA And Others), WHAT ARE ETHANOLAMINE COMPOUNDS (DEA, MEA, OR TEA): CHEMICAL FREE LIVING, The Dirty Dozen: DEA-related ingredients, FDA: Diethanolamine, Chemical Profile: Diethanolamine ,
Phenoxyethanol
2-Phenoxyethanol is a hazardous substance toxic by all routes of exposure, and is used widely in products like cosmetics, soaps, and inks, among others. The effects of exposure to this faintly aromatic, colorless, oily liquid can include eye irritation, headaches, tremors, and CNS depression. It's crucial to rinse exposed eyes with tepid water for at least 15 minutes and to wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water in case of contact. The substance requires preheating before ignition can occur, and if involved in a fire, gentle water spray can extinguish the fire by inducing frothing.
Methylisothiazolinone
Methylisothiazolinone can reportedly cause allergic contact dermatitis in workers who interact with products containing it. This substance is recognized as a contact allergen for consumers using cosmetics that include it. It can cause skin burns and sensitization, and inhaling it may lead to corrosive injuries in the upper respiratory tract and lungs. Ingesting this substance is harmful, and inhalation is toxic. This preservative is linked to the category of isothiazolinones.
Sources:
Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, Methylisothiazolinone toxicity and inhibition of wound healing and regeneration in planaria, Methylchloroisothiazolinone and/or methylisothiazolinone in cosmetic products, Isothiazolinone Biocides: Chemistry, Biological, and Toxicity Profiles, Methylisothiazolinone and isothiazolinone allergy, Analysis of isothiazolinones in environmental waters by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, Methylisothiazolinone induces apoptotic cell death via matrix metalloproteinase activation in human bronchial epithelial cells, EU REGULATIONS , Methylisothiazolinone contact allergy: a review, Effects of methylisothiazolinone and octylisothiazolinone on development and thyroid endocrine system in zebrafish larvae, Two Cases of Chloromethylisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone-associated Toxic Lung Injury, An update of the risk assessment for methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) with focus on rinse-off products, Effects of a mixture of chloromethylisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone on peripheral airway dysfunction in children, Isothiazolinone preservative: cause of a continuing epidemic of cosmetic dermatitis, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone
Isopropyl Alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol has been shown to cause narcosis in animals during acute studies, as cited by ACGIH. However, according to research by Zimmerman, it is not hepatotoxic in either experimental animal studies or in human exposures. It's known to be a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant, and if inhaled in high concentrations, it can cause CNS depression, as indicated by the ICSC.
Octinoxate
Octinoxate, commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products such as hair color products, sunscreen, lipstick, and skin creams, is an endocrine disruptor that mimics estrogen and can affect thyroid function. It has been detected in human urine, blood, and breast milk, indicating systemic exposure. Octinoxate's potential health concerns include its impact on cell proliferation in response to estrogen exposure, disruptions in thyroid hormones, alterations in reproductive systems, and adverse effects on the development of male and female fetuses, as well as their offspring.
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