Dangerous Ingredients in Shampoos You Probably Use Daily

Back view of young woman washing her hair with shampoo in the shower.

Not many people think about their shampoo as something to worry about. Aside from stinging your eyes, what else could these chemical concoctions do to our bodies?

According to the Center for Environmental Health (CEH), shampoos can do more harm than good, so much so that they’re being deemed deadly. CEH studied shampoos and soaps and discovered that 98 popular products contain a possible carcinogen called cocamide diethanolamine (cocamide DEA). Even more concerning, these products are manufactured by some of the most widely recognized companies nationwide.

In this article, we’ll break down what cocamide DEA is, why it’s dangerous, the brands that contain it, and safer alternatives you can use to protect yourself and your family.

Cocamide DEA: What It Is and Why It’s Dangerous

Cocamide DEA is a chemically modified form of coconut oil used as a thickening and foaming agent. Those luxurious suds that envelop your hair when you shampoo? That’s likely cocamide DEA in action.

Health Risks of Cocamide DEA

The dangers of cocamide DEA are alarming:

Skin and eye irritation — mild to moderate, but unpleasant.
Cancer risk — linked to liver cancer and precancerous changes in the skin and thyroid.
Formation of nitrosamines — nitrites present in cosmetics combine with cocamide DEA to create potent carcinogens classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as human carcinogens.

Environmental Impact

Cocamide DEA doesn’t just affect us. It can bioaccumulate and is highly toxic to aquatic life, especially in rural areas where chemical runoff enters rivers and streams.

CEH even purchased shampoos and soaps containing cocamide DEA and sent them to independent labs. Most products contained more than 10,000 ppm, and one shampoo tested at over 200,000 ppm (20%).

The Legal Battle Over Cocamide DEA

The controversial ingredient has already triggered lawsuits in California. CEH filed these against four personal care manufacturers after discovering the chemical in their products.

California’s Proposition 65 requires manufacturers to warn consumers about certain substances that pose health risks. Cocamide DEA is on that list as a suspected carcinogen and was even banned after studies in lab animals showed it caused cancer (1).

CEH has also sent legal notices to over 100 other companies, stating that their use of cocamide DEA violates state law. Michael Green, Executive Director of CEH, emphasized:

“Most people believe that products sold in major stores are tested for safety, but consumers need to know that they could be doused with a cancer-causing chemical every time they shower or shampoo. We expect companies to take swift action to end this unnecessary risk to our children’s and families’ health.”
Michael Green, Executive Director of CEH

Major Brands Containing Cocamide DEA

Shockingly, well-known brands were found to contain this chemical. You can find the full list here:

Major Shampoo Brands:

Prell Classic Clean Shampoo – Ultimark Products (Walgreens)
MG217 Medicated Conditioning Shampoo – Lake Consumer Products (Rite Aid)
American Crew Classic Daily Shampoo – American Crew (CVS, Saks Fifth Avenue)
Organics by Africa’s Best Olive Oil Shampoo – House of Cheatham (CVS)
Palmolive Caprice Acti-Ceramidas Shampoo – Colgate-Palmolive (FoodMaxx)
Mane ‘n Tail Shampoo – Straight Arrow (FoodMaxx)
Ouidad Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo – Ouidad Products (Sephora)
Carol’s Daughter TUI Moisturizing Sulfate-Free Shampoo – Carol’s Daughter (Sephora)
Rusk Brilliance Shampoo – Rusk (CVS)
Herbal Essence Classic (all hair types) – Vanart (Kmart)
TopCare Therapeutic Anti-Dandruff Shampoo – Neutrogena Corp (Lucky)
BIOSILK Cleanse Hydrating Shampoo – Farouk Systems (Lucky)
Equate Maximum Strength Medicated Dandruff Shampoo – Walmart (Walmart)
Organix Awapuhi Ginger Shampoo – Vogue International (CVS)
Lush Fair Trade Honey Shampoo – Lush (Lush Stores)
Crème of Nature Sunflower & Coconut Detangling Shampoo – Colomer USA (Safeway)
Trader Joe’s Lemon Kitchen Hand Soap – Trader Joe’s (Trader Joe’s)
Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo – John Paul Mitchell Systems (Beauty Supply)
Moroccanoil Extra Volume Shampoo – Moroccanoil (Blooming Beauty)
Philip B. Peppermint & Avocado Volumizing Shampoo – Phillip B. Inc. (Bloomingdale’s)
Nick Chavez Advanced Volume Shampoo – Perfect Plus (Ulta)
Design Essentials Organic Cleanse Deep Cleansing Shampoo – McBride Research Labs (JC Penny)
Kelly Van Gogh Colour Protecting Caviar Shampoo – Kelly Van Gogh LLC (Dermstore.com)

Children’s & Baby Products:

Babies “R” Us 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner – Toys R Us (Babies R Us)
Kmart Little Ones Kid’s Bubble Bath (Bubble Gum Scent) – Kmart (Kmart)
“Ricitos de Oro” Chamomile Baby Shampoo – Grisi (Walgreens)
Lalaloopsy Cotton Candy Bubble Bath – Added Extras (Ross)

Other Hair & Body Wash Products:

Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Conditioning Shampoo – E.T. Browne Drug Co. (Lynas Beauty Depot)
Luster’s Pink Conditioning Shampoo – Luster’s Products (Lynas Beauty Depot)
Vitale Neutralizing Shampoo with DL Panthenol – AFAM Concept (Lynas Beauty Depot)
Fantasia Hair Polisher Shampoo – Fantasia Industries (Beauty Supply)
KeraCare Anti-Dandruff Moisturizing Shampoo – Avalon Industries (Macy’s)
Doo Gro Tingling Gro Shampoo – Nature’s Protein (Sally Beauty Co.)
Folicure Dandruff Moisturizing Shampoo – Alberto Culver USA (Sally Beauty Co.)
Sofn’free n’pretty Shea Butter Shampoo – M&M Products Co. (Lynas Beauty Depot)
Ampro Pro Styl Neutralizing Shampoo – Ampro Industries (Lucky)
VIA Natural Style Moisturizing Shampoo – Universal Beauty Products (Beauty Supply)

Some falsely labeled organic products, like Organic by Africa’s Best, also tested positive for cocamide DEA, prompting legal settlements and reformulation.

An updated list on companies who have committed to CEH in writing that they will reformulate their products can be found here.

Other Dangerous Ingredients in Shampoos and Why They Matter

While cocamide DEA grabs the headlines, many other common shampoo ingredients can also pose risks to your health and the environment. Here’s a closer look:

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) / Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
- Purpose: Creates lather and removes oils.
- Risks: Can irritate the scalp, eyes, and skin; may strip natural oils, leading to dryness. SLES can contain trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a probable human carcinogen formed during manufacturing.
Fragrance / Parfum
- Purpose: Provides scent.
- Risks: Often contains undisclosed synthetic chemicals, some of which are endocrine disruptors and can trigger allergies or asthma.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
- Purpose: Gentle foaming agent, often used in “natural” shampoos.
- Risks: Can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and dermatitis; may be contaminated with nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.
Triclosan
- Purpose: Antibacterial agent.
- Risks: Linked to hormone disruption, antibiotic resistance, and environmental toxicity. It can also form toxic dioxins when exposed to sunlight.
Polysorbates (e.g., Polysorbate 20, 80)
- Purpose: Emulsifiers to mix oils and water.
- Risks: May contain residual ethylene oxide, a probable carcinogen. Some studies suggest they can irritate the skin and eyes.
Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
- Purpose: Thickeners, moisture-retaining agents.
- Risks: Can be contaminated with ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane, both probable human carcinogens; may also disrupt the skin’s natural barrier.
Potassium Sorbate
- Purpose: Preservative.
- Risks: Generally low toxicity, but can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals and may contribute to allergic reactions.
Phenoxyethanol
- Purpose: Preservative.
- Risks: Can irritate skin, eyes, and lungs; high doses have been linked to nervous system effects in infants.
Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A derivative)
- Purpose: Claimed anti-aging and hair health benefits.
- Risks: Some studies indicate it may increase skin tumor growth when exposed to sunlight; can be irritating in high concentrations.
Dimethicone
- Purpose: Silicone-based smoothener and conditioner.
- Risks: Coats hair but can trap buildup and pollutants; not biodegradable and can harm aquatic ecosystems.
Behentrimonium Chloride / Quaternium-15
- Purpose: Conditioning agents, anti-static properties.
- Risks: Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions; Quaternium-15 releases formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen.

Why These Chemicals Persist

You might wonder: if these ingredients are dangerous, why are they still on store shelves?

Lack of federal oversight: The FDA doesn’t strictly regulate personal care product ingredients.
Industry self-regulation: Many companies rely on their internal safety standards rather than independent testing.
State-level efforts: California’s Proposition 65 and Washington State’s Toxics-Free Cosmetics Act are steps in the right direction, but enforcement is limited.

The result? Consumers are often unknowingly exposed to potentially cancer-causing chemicals every day.

Safer Shampoo & Conditioner Alternatives

Choosing the right haircare products doesn’t have to be overwhelming. While many store-bought shampoos contain harmful chemicals, some brands and ingredients can cleanse, nourish, and protect your hair without compromising your health.

What to Look for in Safer Products

Transparent Ingredient Lists: Avoid products that hide “fragrance” or use vague terms. Brands that list every ingredient clearly are usually safer.
Free From Known Toxins: Look for products without cocamide DEA, SLS, parabens, triclosan, silicones (dimethicone), formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, or synthetic colors/fragrances.
Certified Labels: Certifications like USDA Organic, EcoCert, or Leaping Bunny indicate safer formulations and cruelty-free standards.
Plant-Based Ingredients: Oils, butters, and extracts (like argan oil, aloe vera, coconut oil) can nourish hair naturally without harsh chemicals.

Trusted Brands That Actually Deliver

These brands are ones I’ve tested or researched thoroughly, and they consistently avoid harmful ingredients:

Morrocco Method: Plant-based shampoos and conditioners that are free of toxins, sulfate-free, and nourishing for all hair types.
Sunfood Superfoods: Uses superfood extracts to strengthen hair, reduce breakage, and leave hair feeling soft and healthy.
Evolvh: Focuses on natural ingredients with minimal processing, free from synthetic chemicals.
Rahua: Premium plant-based products with sustainably sourced ingredients; supports healthy scalp and hair growth.
Carina Organics: Simple, clean formulations designed to be safe for the entire family.
100% Pure: Offers a wide range of shampoos and conditioners free of harmful chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and sulfates.

Tips for Switching Safely

Patch Test First: Even natural ingredients can irritate sensitive skin.
Give Your Hair Time to Adjust: Transitioning from chemical-heavy products can temporarily make hair feel different as it detoxes.
Rotate Products: Using different plant-based shampoos or alternating with co-washes can reduce buildup and improve scalp health.
DIY Options: For those who enjoy hands-on care, simple natural alternatives like aloe vera gel, apple cider vinegar rinses, or baking soda (sparingly) can complement commercial natural shampoos.

Bonus: Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Choices

Choosing safer products can also benefit the environment:

Avoiding silicones, PEGs, and other non-biodegradable ingredients reduces waterway contamination.
Supporting brands with sustainable packaging (glass bottles, recycled plastic, or refill stations) decreases landfill waste.

By carefully selecting shampoos and conditioners that are free from harmful chemicals, you’re not just protecting your health, you’re also supporting a cleaner environment and healthier hair for the long term.

The Bigger Picture: Consumer Empowerment

Awareness is the first step toward change. Many people assume major store brands are safe, but the reality is different. As consumers, we have the power to: