There are many reasons why you might use natural shampoo. Lots of people prefer products that are natural and therefore “green.” Others find that their hair is healthier when cleaned with natural ingredients. Natural shampoo is often found to be easier on dyed hair. Finally, you might like natural shampoos because they frequently double as soothing body washes.

Of course some companies use the word natural in a deceptive way. Sometimes it can just mean natural ingredients. Natural ingredients can mean nearly anything that has been derived from nature. This means that your shampoo could possibly have just a few natural ingredients and many unnatural ones. Generally a few preservatives or dyes can be okay. Of course sensitive skin can have more trouble with colors and fragrances. Serious problem ingredients often undo the benefits of natural ingredients.

Always watch for laureth- or lauryl sulfate. This makes shampoo foam. However, in addition it strips hair. The result is hair that becomes brittle and weak over time. Also, it will destroy color treatments. Lightened, dull hair results from excessive lauryl sulfate use. Always avoid anything with the words laureth or lauryl sulfate.

Also, keep an eye out for sufur and sulfides. Dandruff shampoos often have these ingredients. You could certainly say that sulfur is natural. But in some cases it can make skin conditions worse and cause dandruff. If you elect to use a sulfur based shampoo, keep it away from your eyes. You might also get resulting hair that is drier than you like.

Natural shampoos tend to share common characteristics:

* They have few ingredients - The majority of the components in most shampoos are artificial. Most natural shampoo products just contain a soap base and minimal other ingredients.

* There is not much foam when using natural shampoos - This is because most foaming agents are not natural.

* Often they have ingredients that you would look for in your cupboards - You could see items like baking soda and herbs. In fact a number of people just use vinegar and baking soda to wash their hair.

If you have perfect hair and love your shampoo, then stick with it! If you are looking for a new natural shampoo, though, be sure that you are getting the real deal. These secret ingredients can cause frizziness, dry hair, breakage and serious damage. Make sure that your natural shampoo is really natural before you start washing your hair with it.