When we talk about hair care, we often discuss the effects on our hair and scalp. But have you ever pondered the environmental impact of the products you use? The fact is, hair care products, especially those containing non-biodegradable ingredients, can have dire consequences on our precious environment.
What Does Biodegradable Mean?
Biodegradable refers to substances that can be broken down naturally by environmental factors, such as sunlight and microorganisms. Biodegradable ingredients are often made from renewable resources like plants and algae. They decompose into non-toxic components, leaving minimal environmental footprints.
On the contrary, non-biodegradable ingredients otherwise known as synthetic ingredients persist in the environment, as they resist natural decomposition processes. These substances can accumulate in the soil and water bodies, contributing to pollution and harming wildlife.
Common Biodegradable Ingredients for Hair Care
Biodegradable hair care products often contain natural ingredients like aloe vera, plant-based oils, and plant-derived polymers such as Sclerotium Gum. These substances not only benefit your hair but also decompose without harming the environment. By choosing biodegradable products, you’d be contributing to a greener, healthier planet while also nourishing your hair with nature’s best. Now, isn’t that a win-win situation?
Common Non-Biodegradable Ingredients for Hair Care
Non-biodegradable ingredients commonly found in hair care products include parabens, silicones, propylenes, formaldehydes and certain types of alcohols. These substances can linger in the environment for years, causing damage to flora and fauna.
Benefits of Using Biodegradable Hair Care Products for People and the Planet
Switching to sustainable hair care products can have immense benefits for both individuals and the planet. Biodegradable ingredients not only provide essential nourishment to your hair, but they also help reduce waste and promote a circular economy.
Conversely, non-biodegradable ingredients can cause significant harm to wildlife and ecosystems if not disposed of properly. Therefore, opting for products with biodegradable ingredients is a crucial step towards sustainable living and zero-waste hair care.
Where can I check my product’s ingredient list?
The Environmental Working Group Skin Deep Cosmetics Database, on both you can look up either the entire product by name and even, see formula changes. If not listed can search the ingredients individually. We recommend looking up at least the first 1/2 of the ingredient list or the first 5-6 ingredients. Ingredients are listed in order of the amount in the formula.
What is A Simple Planet doing
We are committed to only using plant-derived or whole-plant ingredients in our formulas, there are several ingredients in our formulas that can be produced synthetically, such as Citric Acid and L-Arginine. We choose to only source from plant-based manufacturers.