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 Safer Adult Shampoo

One of the things that I get the most requests for are Cheat Sheets for adult personal care products. So here’s the first one, our mega Safer Shampoo Cheat Sheet (for grownups!).

Shampoo is a tricky one. Along with deodorant, it’s one of the last things people tend to switch when they’re making the move to natural. I understand that. You find a shampoo that you love, and you stick to it. No one wants bad hair days.

Although natural shampoos may have had a bad reputation in the past, that’s definitely not the case any more. You’ll still have to find one that works with your hair (no point buying a natural shampoo for oily hair if you’ve got dry hair). These days, many natural brands have ranges for dry, coloured, frizzy, thin, curly and even dandruff prone hair. You’re sure to find a natural shampoo that’s safer, and great for your hair.

I’ve rounded up over 60 natural shampoos and had a look at all the ingredients for you. Why do I do this? So you can make safer shampoo choices, and cut through the greenwash!

Top Picks for Safer Shampoo

Here’s my top picks (in alphabetical order):

And some great shampoo bars:

Safer Shampoo – The Full Rundown

Name: 100% Pure Burdock & Neem Healthy Scalp Shampoo 100% Pure Burdock & Neem Healthy Scalp Shampoo
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Leaf Juice*, Rosa Centifolia Flower Water (Organic Rose Hydrosol)*, Sodium Cocoate (Saponified Coconut) Oil, Vegetarian Glycerin, Extracts of Melia Azadirachta (Neem), Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root and Fucus Vesiculosus (Kelp), Vegetal Cellulose, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Panthenol, Extracts of Camellia Sinensis (Organic Green Tea) Leaf*, Urtica Dioica (Nettle), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf and Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower, Cocos Nucifera (Virgin Coconut) Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Extract, Salt (French Sea Salt), Extracts of Origanum Vulgare (Oregano) Leaf, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/ Leaf and Lonicera Caprifolium (Japanese Honeysuckle), Eucalyptus Globulus (Eucalyptus) Leaf Essential Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Essential Oil * Certified Organic
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 235 ml for $26.95
Comments: Nothing to be concerned about with this shampoo. The ingredients look good! My only question on these is about the preservatives (or lack of). See my previous post here on why preservatives are important. 100% Pure say that they use only natural preservatives and anti-bacterial herbs. I’d be concerned about buying a large size of these products, because the shelf life won’t be very long.

 

Name: 100% Pure Kelp & Mint Volumizing Shampoo 100% Pure Kelp & Mint Volumizing Shampoo
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis (Organic Aloe)* Leaf Juice, Rosa Centifolia Flower Water (Organic Rose Hydrosol)*, Vegetarian Glycerin, Sodium Cocoate (Saponified Coconut) Oil, Mentha Pipertia (Peppermint) Leaf Extract, Fucus Vesiculosus (Kelp) Extract, Cellulose (Vegan), Cocos Nucifera (Virgin Coconut) Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Panthenol, Extracts of Camellia Sinensis (Organic Green Tea)* Leaf, Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root, Urtica Dioica (Nettle), Melia Azadirachta (Neem), Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower, Salt (French Sea Salt), Origanum Vulgare (Oregano) Leaf, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/Leaf, Lonicera Caprifolium Flower and Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Essential Oil * Certified Organic
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 235 ml for $26.95
Comments: Another nice looking ingredients list, but see my previous comments on the lack of preservatives in these products.

 

808 Dude Shampoo & Body Wash
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: 808 Dude Shampoo & Body Wash
Ingredients: Aqua, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Extract Organic, Lauryl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Certified Organic Glycerine and Aqua and Certified Organic Eleutherococcus senticosus (Ginseng) and Naticide, Aqua and Glycerin and Paullinia Cupana Seed Extract (Guarana) and Citric Acid and Sodium Benzoate, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Panthenol, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil, Citrus Aurantfolia (Lime) Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Oil, Juniperus Virginiana (Cedarwood) Bark Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Oil, Glyceryl Caprylate, Potassium Sorbate
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250 ml for $13.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: This one is a shampoo and body wash aimed at teen boys, but my husband is happy to use this as well. This scores higher in EWG because of the Naticide. The preservative Naticide is allowed by the organic certifying bodies ACO and EcoCert. Naticide is the trade name, but the Australian products must list ingredients according to the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) names, and the INCI name for Naticide is parfum or fragrance. Which of course, scores high on the EWG database and pushes up the overall rating on this product. The only ingredient that I’m not super keen on is the cocamidopropyl  betaine. As a whole, however, this is an excellent product that’s much safer, yet still acceptable for teen boys. Go, 808 Dude!

 

Acure Shampoo Moroccan Argan Stem Cell
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: Acure Shampoo Moroccan Argan Stem Cell
Ingredients: Organic Euterpe oleracea (Acai) Berry, Organic Rubus fruticosus (Blackberry), Organic Rosa canina (Rosehips), Organic Punica granatum (Pomegranate), Organic Fair Trade Certified™ Rooibos, Organic Aloe Barbadensis Vera Leaf Juice, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate (from Coconut), 100% Naturally-derived Betaine (from Sugar Beets), Vegetable Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate (from Coconut + Amino Acids), Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate (from Coconut + Amino Acids), Cocoglucosides Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride (Sugar Conditioner), Sodium Levulinate (from Corn), Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride (Guar gum conditioner), Potassium Sorbate (food grade preservative), Organic Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil, Organic Fair-Trade Certified™ Olea Europea (Olive) Oil, D-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (vitamin E), Hippophae rhamnoides (sea buckthorn) seed oil, Organic Curcubita pepo (Pumpkin) seed oil, Ubiquinone (CoQ10), Argania spinosa (Argan) Stem Cells, glycerophosphoinositol lysine (from sunflower), Almond Extract, Cinnamomum aromaticum (Cassia Bark) Oil
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 1 Low Hazard
Cost: 236ml for $16.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: An excellent ingredients list from a good brand. Nothing to be concerned about here.

 

Acure Volume Shampoo Mint + Echinacea Stem Cell
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: Acure Volume Shampoo Mint + Echinacea Stem Cell
Ingredients: Organic Euterpe oleracea (Acai) Berry, Organic Rubus fruticosus (Blackberry), Organic Rosa canina (Rosehips), Organic Punica granatum (Pomegranate), Organic Fair Trade Certified™ Rooibos, Organic Aloe Barbadensis Vera Leaf Juice, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate (from Coconut), 100% Naturally-derived Betaine (from Sugar Beets), Vegetable Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate (from Coconut + Amino Acids), Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate (from Coconut + Amino Acids), Cocoglucosides Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride (Sugar Conditioner), Sodium Levulinate (from Corn), Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride (Guar gum conditioner), Potassium Sorbate (food grade preservative), Organic Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil, Organic Fair-Trade Certified™ Olea Europea (Olive) Oil, D-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (vitamin E), hippophae rhamnoides (sea buckthorn) seed oil, Attalea speciosa(Babassu) oil, Chenopodium quinoa (Quinoa) protein extract, Ubiquinone (CoQ10), Echinacea angustifolia (Echinacea) Stem Cells, Mentha peperita (Peppermint) and Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Essential Oils
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 1 Low Hazard
Cost: 236ml for $16.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: Another great ingredients list. This is a really popular product at Hello Charlie, and it’s not hard to see why.

 

Acure Dry Shampoo
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: Acure Dry Shampoo
Ingredients: Organic corn starch (non-GMO), french white clay (kaolin), oat flour, slippery elm bark flour, argania spinosa (argan) stem cells, ubiquinone (Coq10), lavender essential oil, chamomile essential oil.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 48 g for $19.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: Not, strictly speaking, shampoo. But dry shampoo is so popular that we thought we’d include it for you. This is a great list of ingredients, and so much better for you than the horrible ones in a can (see my Dry Shampoo Smackdown here, if you’re interested). My favourite dry shampoo, by the way!

 

Name: Alaffia Everyday Shea Coconut Shampoo Alaffia Everyday Shea Coconut Shampoo
Ingredients: Coconut Water, African Ginger Extract, Saponified Virgin Coconut Oil, Lauryl Glucoside, Panthenol, Copra Extract
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 950ml for $19.95
Comments: This one is basically a liquid soap, with the pH level meaning that it doesn’t need a preservative. The ingredients look good! This is a great company, too, with a fantastic array of projects that they work on to help alleviate poverty in West Africa. It’s a company worth supporting.

 

Name: Alaffia Everyday Shea Unscented Shampoo Alaffia Everyday Shea Unscented Shampoo
Ingredients: Liquid Shea Butter Soap (Aqueous Shea Leaf (Butyrospermum parkii) Extract, Saponified Shea (Butyrospermum parkii) Butter* (and) Virgin Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Oil), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Polyglucose
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 950ml for $19.95
Comments: Another reasonable ingredients list in what is basically a liquid soap, too. I’m not super keen on the cocamidopropyl betaine, but there are a lot worse products out there.

 

Andalou Naturals Shampoo - Age Defying Argan Stem Cells
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: Andalou Naturals Shampoo – Age Defying Argan Stem Cells
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Juice*, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Vegetable Glycerin, Cyamopsis Tetragonolobus (Guar) Gum*, Fruit Stem Cells (Argan, Malus Domestica, Solar Vitis) and BioActive 8 Berry Complex*, Vitis Vinifera (Grape Seed) and Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oils*, Vitamin B Complex (Biotin, Thiamine, Pyridoxine, Niacin, Riboflavin, and Panthenol), Glycine Soja (Soy) Protein, Hair Regeneration Complex [Tussilago Farfara (Coltsfoot), Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow), Cinchona Succirubra (Quinine Bark), Cysteine, Glycosaminoglycans, Spiraea Ulmaria (Meadowsweet)], Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) and Linum Usitatissimum (Flax) Oils*, Camellia Sinensis (White Tea) and Hibiscus Sabdariffa Extracts*^, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Allantoin, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood), Cananga Odorata (Ylang Ylang) and Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Oils* (*Organic, ^Fair Trade)
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 3 Moderate Hazard
Cost: 340 ml for $13.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: The clove oil pushes up the score on this one, but it’s the very last ingredient, so there’s not much of it. A good ingredients list again.

 

Andalou Naturals Shampoo - Brilliant Shine Sunflower Citrus
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: Andalou Naturals Shampoo – Brilliant Shine Sunflower Citrus
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Juice*, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) and Linum Usitatissimum (Flax) Oils*, Vegetable Glycerin, Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Oil, Cyamopsis Tetragonolobus (Guar) Gum*, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) and Pyrus Cydonia (Quince) Extracts*, Fruit Stem Cells (Malus Domestica, Solar Vitis) and BioActive 8 Berry Complex*, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Aspalathus Linearis (Rooibos) and Hibiscus Sabdariffa Extracts*^, Allantoin, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) and Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Oils* (*Organic, ^Fair Trade, Non GMO verified)
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 2 Low Hazard
Cost: 340 ml for $13.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: My current favourite shampoo. I love this one, as you can see from my recent shampoo smackdown. Great ingredients list, and I can personally vouch for how well this one works!

 

Name: Australian Native Botanicals Shampoo Rejuvenating Australian Native Botanicals Shampoo Rejuvenating
Ingredients: Aqua, sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauroamphoacetate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, xanthan gum, aloe barbadensis leaf extract (organic**), hibiscus sabdariffa (wild rosella) flower extract, citrus glauca (desert lime) fruit extract, glycerin, benzyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol, citral*, limonene*, melissa officinalis (lemon balm) oil, cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) oil (organic**), citrus aurantifolia (lime) oil, pogostemon cablin (patchouli) oil (organic**). *natural components of pure essential oils and pure plant oils. **certified organic in accordance with EU834/2007
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 500ml for $16.95
Comments: I’m not super keen on the cocamidopropyl betaine, benzyl alcohol or the phenoxyethanol, but this isn’t a bad product at all. I’ve estimated it at around a 3 on EWG, so a pretty good choice otherwise.

 

Name: Australian Native Botanicals Shampoo Strengthening Australian Native Botanicals Shampoo Strengthening
Ingredients: Aqua, sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauroamphoacetate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, glycerin, xanthan gum, aloe barbadensis leaf extract (organic**), terminalia ferdinandiana extract (kakadu plum), hibiscus sabdariffa flower extract (wild rosella), glycerin, benzyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol, citral*, limonene*, mentha spicata (spearmint) leaf oil, melissa officinalis (lemon balm) oil, citrus grandis (grapefruit) peel oil, citrus medica limonum (lemon) peel oil. *natural components of pure essential oils and pure plant oils. **certified organic in accordance with EU834/2007
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 500ml for $16.95
Comments: See my comments on the Australian Native Botanicals Shampoo, above. As a little in-joke for my fellow Australians, I’d like to point out that no birds were harmed during the making of this shampoo (Wild rosellas, geddit?). Quite possibly only my dad and I will laugh at this one, though 😉

 

Name: Avalon Organics Active Shampoo Biotin B Complex Thick Avalon Organics Active Shampoo Biotin B Complex Thick
Ingredients: Purified water, organic aloe barbadensis leaf juice(1), sodium cocoyl sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium cocoyl sarcosinate, vegetable glycerin, serenoa serrulata (saw palmetto) fruit extract, panthenol (pro-vitamin B-5), biotin, thiamine, pyridoxine, niacin, riboflavin, polyquaternium-10, wheat protein, soy protein, citric acid, soyamidopropalkonium chloride, jojoba oil, organic helianthus annuus (sunflower) oil(2), sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, ethylhexylglycerin, organic rosamarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf oil(2) and other essential oils. (1) Certified by BioAgriCert (2) Certified by Quality Assurance International
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 400ml for $19.99
Comments: The only thing I’m not super keen on here is the cocamidopropyl betaine. Otherwise, a good ingredients list.

 

Name: Avalon Organics Shampoo Rosemary Avalon Organics Shampoo Rosemary
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice(1), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract(1), Dioscorea Villosa (Wild Yam) Root Extract(1), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract(1), Styrax Benzoin Resin Extract, Cedrus Atlantica Bark Oil, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Oil, Copaifera Officinalis (Balsam Copaiba) Resin, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Seed Oil, Geranium Maculatum Oil(1), Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil(1), Arginine, Bisabolol, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Sodium Citrate, Sodium PCA, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Alcohol(1), Benzyl Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Coumarin, Limonene, Linalool. (1)Certified Organic Ingredient
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 325ml for $12.99
Comments: The benzyl alcohol and the cocamidopropyl betaine push up the score on this one on the EWG database (I estimate it at a 3), but this is a pretty good ingredients list, too.

 

Name: Beauty & The Bees Eggcellent Egg & Lemon Shampoo Bar Beauty & The Bees Eggcellent Egg & Lemon Shampoo Bar
Ingredients: Mountain water, Free range eggs, coconut olive and soy oils, leatherwood beeswax and honey, seaweed extract, Lemon/ Lemon Myrtle essential oils
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 125 g for $12.20
Comments: I’ve never used a shampoo bar, but the ingredients are good. No preservatives required because it’s a soap, which makes for a good ingredients list.

 

Name: Beauty & The Bees Tasmanian Beer Shampoo Bar Beauty & The Bees Tasmanian Beer Shampoo Bar
Ingredients: Mountain spring water, Coconut oil, olive oil,soy wax Leatherwood Beeswax and honey, castor oil, seaweed extract, beer.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 125 g for $12.20
Comments: More good ingredients in this shampoo bar.

 

Name: Billie Goat Soap 2 In1 Shampoo And Conditioner Billie Goat Soap 2 In1 Shampoo And Conditioner
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Goat Milk (Caprae Lac), Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $13.95
Comments: I’m a big fan of the cocamidopropyl betaine or the phenoxyethanol, but it’s not a bad choice otherwise.

 

Name: Billie Goat Soap Shampoo Billie Goat Soap Shampoo
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Goat Milk (Caprae Lac), Coco-Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Glycol Distearate, Glyceryl Oleate, Glyceryl Stearate, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Panthenol, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Xanthan Gum, Bentonite (Ci77004), Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 500ml for $19.95
Comments: Again, the cocoamidopropyl betaine and the phenoxyethanol aren’t my favourites, but not bad ingredients.

 

Biologika Coconut Shampoo
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: Biologika Coconut Shampoo
Ingredients: Organic Herbal Blend of Lavender, Nettle & Burdock; Coco Polyglucose, Decyl Glucoside, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Birch Extract, Organic Jojoba Oil, Guar Gum, Citrus Seed Extract, coconut absolute oil, Olive Leaf Extract, Potassium Sorbate & Citric Acid
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 500 ml for $9.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: Good ingredients from a great certified organic brand, and made here in Melbourne.

 

Biologika Vanilla Shampoo
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: Biologika Vanilla Shampoo
Ingredients: Purified water, coco polyglucoside, organic cocoa butter, organic fruit extracts of kakadu plum and kiwi, decylglucoside, locust bean gum, vanilla pure absolute oil, citrus seed extract, olive leaf extract, potassium sorbate and citric acid.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 500 ml for $9.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: Another good shampoo choice from Biologika. This one is a popular family one at Hello Charlie.

 

Name: Cynthia Sylvia Stout Shampoo Cynthia Sylvia Stout Shampoo
Ingredients: Stout (Beer), Water (Aqua), Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate), Lauryl Betaine (Lauryl Betaine), Propylene Glycol (Propylene Glycol), Benzyl Alcohol (Benzyl Alcohol), Fresh Organic Lemon Juice (Citrus limonum), Cognac Oil (Vitis vinifera), Lemongrass Oil (Cymbopogon citratus), Yeast (Yeast), Balsamic Vinegar (Balsamic Vinegar), *Citral (*Citral), *Geraniol (*Geraniol), Perfume (Perfume), Methylparaben, Propylparaben (Propylparaben) * Occurs naturally in essential oils
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 100g for $12.95
Comments: I know that beer is supposed to be good for hair, but there’s other ingredients here that aren’t so great. Sulfates, propylene glycol, benzyl alcohol, perfume, parabens. I think I’ll just stick to drinking my beer, thanks!

 

Name: Desert Essence Coconut Shampoo Desert Essence Coconut Shampoo
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract, Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow) Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Foeniculum Vulgare (Fennel) Seed Extract, Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Sodium Coco-Sulfate (Coconut Derived), Decyl Glucoside (Coconut And Corn Derived), Propanediol (Corn Derived), Coco-Glucoside (Coconut Derived), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Coco Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Dehydroacetic Acid, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides (Coconut Derived), Sodium Chloride, Potassium Sorbate (Fruit Derived), Lauryl Glucoside (Plant Derived), Benzyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Stearyl Citrate (Vegetable Derived), Fragrance (Parfum)
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 4 Moderate Hazard
Cost: 237ml for $14.95
Comments: A reasonable ingredients list, until you get to the fragrance. I don’t do synthetic fragrance, so that knocks this off the list for me.

 

Name: Dindi Naturals Ginger Bergamot Shampoo/Travel Bar Dindi Naturals Ginger Bergamot Shampoo/Travel Bar
Ingredients: Saponified Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Castor Oil, Avocado Oil, Pure Essential Oils of Ginger, Bergamot, Ho Wood, Patchouli, Lavender, Cedarwood and Vetiver Plant Extracts
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 130g (in tin can) for $14.00
Comments: Another shampoo bar with nice ingredients.

 

Name: Dindi Naturals Tangerine Patchouli Shampoo/Travel Bar Dindi Naturals Tangerine Patchouli Shampoo Travel Bar
Ingredients: Saponified Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Coconut Milk, Rice Bran Oil, Hempseed Oil, Castor Oil, Black Cumin Oil, Pure Essential Oils of Tangerine, Patchouli, Ylang Ylang, Sweet Orange and Lavender, Yellow Clay, Yucca Root, Aloe Vera Plant Extracts
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 130g (in tin can) for $14.00
Comments: Nothing to get upset about in this shampoo bar, either. The beauty of the bar is that you don’t need preservatives – nice!

 

Name: Dr Organic Organic Aloe Vera Shampoo Dr Organic Organic Aloe Vera Shampoo
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Aqua (Water), Sodium Lauryol Sarcosinate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Palmitamidopropyltrimonium Chloride, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Sorbitan Sesquicaprylate, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Parfum, Limonene, Linalool, Citric Acid
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $14.95
Comments: This is a brand I’m not a big fan of. Despite the name, there’s nothing certified organic in these products, and I think it’s greenwash. There’s cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, and perfume. It’s the thumbs down from me.

 

Name: Dr Organic Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo Dr Organic Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo
Ingredients: Aloe barbadensis leaf juice, Aqua, Cocamidopropyl betaine, Sodium cocoamphoacetate, Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, Coco glucoside, Glyceryl oleate, Palmitamidopropyltrimonium chloride, Glycerin, Caprylyl/Capryl glucoside, Argania spinosa (Argan) oil, Citrus aurantium dulcis, Eugenia caryophyllus (Clove) leaf oil, Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium) oil, Citrus limon peel oil, Pogostemon cablin (Patchouli) oil, Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Cinnamon) leaf oil, Aniba rosaeodora (Rosewood) oil, Mentha arvensis herb oil, Citrus nobilis (Mandarin) peel oil, Vanilla planifolia (Vanilla) fruit extract, Mentha spicata herb oil, Kigelia Africana fruit extract, Hibiscus sabdariffa flower extract, Adansonia digitata fruit extract, Sorbitan sesquicaprylate, Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, Sodium benzoate, Potassium sorbate, Benzyl alcohol, Dehydroacetic acid, Citric acid, Limonene, Eugenol, Linalool
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 265ml for $17.95
Comments: This one’s not as bad as the previous one, but there’s still cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, and benzyl alcohol. And not an organic ingredient in sight. 

 

Name: Ego QV Hair Gentle Shampoo Ego Qv Hair Gentle Shampoo
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Glycerin, TEA-Lauryl Sulphate, Polyquaternium-44, Lauryl Betaine, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Aminomethyl Propenol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 200g for $7.45
Comments: Parabens and sulfates aren’t going to win me over. Not when there are so many other good choices out there.

 

Name: Ethique Heali Kiwi Solid Shampoo Bar Ethique Heali Kiwi Solid Shampoo Bar
Ingredients: Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Coco-Sulfate, Decyl Glucoside, Stearic Acid, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Butter, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Kiwifruit (Actinidia Chinensis) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Coco Caprylate, Ground Oatmeal, Ground Calendula, Coconut Milk Powder, Neem Oil, Karanja Oil, Lavandula Augustifolia (Lavender) & Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Essential Oils, Lactic Acid
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 110g for $19.85
Comments: I’m pretty keen to try shampoo bars. I came across this one at an organic expo a few weeks back, and there’s some on the way for me to try out. The ingredients are great, and because there’s no water, you reduce packaging and the impact of shipping. I’ll keep you up to date as I test these guys out.

 

Name: Ethique Shampoo and Shaving Bar for Men Ethique Shampoo and Shaving Bar for Men
Ingredients: Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Coco-Sulfate, Decyl Glucoside, Stearic Acid, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Butter, Coco Caprylate, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Yellow Clay, Vegetable Glycerine, Coconut Milk Powder, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime), Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange) And Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Essential Oils, Mica, Lactic Acid.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 110g for $19.85
Comments: I’m loving the idea of the 2 for 1 in this shampoo and shaving bar! Sounds perfect for the not-so-metrosexual man in my life. Good ingredients, and cutting down on the products you use is always great. We’ll be testing this one shortly, so keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming blog post.

 

Name: Everescents Organic Bergamot Shampoo Everescents Bergamot Shampoo
Ingredients: Aqua** (Purified Water), Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Coco Betaine**, Extracts of ((Mentha Piperita* (Peppermint), Salvia Officinalis* (Sage), Rosmarinus Officinalis* (Rosemary), Urtica Dioica* (Nettle), Equistum Arvense* (Horsetail), Matricaria Recutita* (Chamomile)), Sea Salt**, Guar gum**, Panthenol Vitamin B5**, Silk Amino Acids**, Ginseng Extract**, Green Tea Extract**, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Essential Oil* (Bergamot), Citrus Limonium Essential Oil* (Lemon), Pureact WS**, Citric Acid**, Tocopherol Vitamin E**, Herbal Active**(natural preservative). *Certified Organic **Organic ***Naturally Derived
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $24.50
Comments: Everescents is a salon only range that looks pretty good. Plant based and certified organic ingredients, and they’re Australian made (right down to the bottles and labels). The ingredients are good, so I’d say it’s worth seeking out a salon to try them out.

 

Name: Everescents Organic Blonde Shampoo Everescents Organic Blonde Shampoo
Ingredients: Aqua*** (Purified Water), Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate***, Coco Betaine***, Pureact WS ***, Glycol Distearate*** , Certified Organic extracts of (Rosmarinus Officinalis* (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Sage Officinalis* (Sage) Leaf Extract, Tilia Cordata* (Linden) Flower Extract, Urtica Dioica* (Nettle) Extract, Betula Alba* (Birch) Extract, Equisetum Arvense* (Horsetail) Leaf Extract, Achillea Millefolium* (Yarrow) Extract), Tocopherol Acetate*** (Vitamin E), Natural Mixed Berry fragrance***, Guar Gum ***, Panthenol*** (provitamin B5), Citric Acid***, Herbal Active***, Sweet Potato Red*** (natural blackcurrant colour), Gardenia Blue*** (natural blue colour). *Certified Organic **Organic ***Naturally Derived
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $29.50
Comments: The only issue I have with this is the fragrance. It does say naturally derived, and their website does say that they avoid synthetic fragrance, but I can’t find any certifications or anything on this. Otherwise, a good product.

 

Name: Feminine Mysteries I Love My Hair – Black Coconut & Tahitian Vanilla Shampoo Feminine Mysteries I Love My Hair - Black Coconut & Tahitian Vanilla Shampoo
Ingredients: Organic Herbal Blend of: Aloe Vera, Burdock, Calendula, Chamomile, Horsetail, Lavender and Rosehip. Purified Water, Organic Jojoba oil, Biodynamic Safflower Oil, Organic Avocado Oil, Biodynamic Macadamia Oil, Guar Gum, Capric/Caprylic Glucoside, Cocoa Betaine, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxymethylglicinate, Black Coconut Essential Oil, Vanilla Essential Oil.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 500ml for $24.95
Comments: Really, my only issue here is the sodium hydroxymethylglycinate. Other than that, good ingredients.

 

Name: Feminine Mysteries I Love My Hair Chai Shampoo Feminine Mysteries I Love My Hair Chai Shampoo
Ingredients: Aloe Vera, Burdock, Calendula, Camomile, Horsetail, Rosehip, Lavender, Purified Water, Organic Jojoba Oil, Biodynamic Safflower Oil Organic Avocado Oil, Biodynamic Macadamia Oil, Guar Gum, Capri/Caprylic Glucoside Coco Betanine, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxymethylglicintate, Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil, Clove Essential Oil, Vanilla Essential Oil
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 500ml for $24.95
Comments: See my comments on the coconut and vanilla shampoo from this brand. The clove oil also pushes the score up on this, but not significantly. I estimate this as a 3 on EWG, but apart from the sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, there’s nothing to worry about.

 

Name: Gaia Made for Men Shampoo Gaia Made for Men Shampoo
Ingredients: Purified Water, Decyl Glucoside, Disodium Cocomphodiacetate, Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Guar Gum, Vegetable Glycerin, Lactic Acid, Hydrolysed Wheat Protein, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Certified Organic Evening Primrose Oil, Certified Organic Avocado Oil, Certified Organic Wheat Germ Oil, Certified Organic Nettle Extract, Certified Organic Rosemary Extract, Certified Organic Chamomile Extract, Certified Organic Aloe Leaf Extract, Witch Hazel Extract, Allantoin, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, And The Pure Essential Oils Of Certified Organic Lime, Certified Organic Sweet Orange, Certified Organic Cedarwood, Certified Organic Spearmint, Certified Organic Patchouli, Organic Australian Sandalwood
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 150g for $12.95
Comments: More of the sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, as well as cocomidopropyl betaine, but otherwise a reasonable enough product.

 

Name: Giovanni 2chic Ultra Sleek Shampoo Giovanni 2chic Ultra Sleek Shampoo
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B-5), Beta Carotene, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Hydrolyzed Paullinia Cupana (Brazilian Cocoa) Keratin Extract [Phyto-Keratin], Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Aspalathus Linearis (Rooibos Tea) Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia) Seed Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Polysorbate 20, Glycol Distearate, Sodium PCA, Phenoxyethanol, Natural Fragrance
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 4 Moderate Hazard
Cost: 250ml for $14.95
Comments: There’s fragrance and phenoxyethanol, and cocamidopropyl betaine, which are enough to make me avoid it. But it’s not horrible. 

 

Name: Giovanni Dry Shampoo Powder Giovanni Dry Shampoo Powder
Ingredients: Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Stearalkonium Hectorite, Panthenola (Pro-Vitamin B-5), Kaolin, Vitis Vinafera (Grape) Seed Extract [Proanthocyanidins], *Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract [Ginsenosides], Silica, Natural Fragrance *USDA certified organic
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 50g for $14.95
Comments: Another dry shampoo powder, which is good except for the fragrance.

 

Name: Grahams Natural Shampoo Grahams Natural Shampoo
Ingredients: Water, Coconut Betaine, Glycerine Stearate (Vegetable), Cocamide Dea (Vegetable), Chamomile Extract, Citric Acid, Sodium Chloride, Manuka Honey, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Olive Leaf Extract, Wheat Germ, Vitamin E, Panthenol B5, Phenoxyethanol.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $12.95
Comments: It’s not awful, but there’s cocamide DEA and phenoxyethanol. I’ve estimated this at a 3 on EWG, but I think there’s better choices.

 

Name: Herbon Shampoo Ginseng Anti-Dandruff Herbon Shampoo Ginseng Anti-Dandruff
Ingredients: Sodium Cocoate, Coco Betaine, Coconut Ethanolamine, Citric Acid, Extracts of Chamomile, Orange, Lemon, Mandarin, Lichen, Witch Hazel and Purified Water.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $9.99
Comments: Nothing to get worked up about in this one. Ingredients are very mild.

 

Name: Herbon Shampoo Ginseng Fragrance Free Herbon Shampoo Ginseng Fragrance Free
Ingredients: Sodium Cocoate, Coco Betaine, Coconut Ethanolamine, Citric Acid, Extracts of Chamomile, Ginseng, Orange, Lemon, Mandarin and Purified Water.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $6.99
Comments: Another gentle shampoo with reasonable ingredients from Herbon.

 

Name: Jason Shampoo Aloe Vera Moisturising Jason Shampoo Aloe Vera Moisturising
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Aqua (Water), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract*, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract*, Equisetum Arvense Leaf Extract*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract*, Spirulina Maxima Extract*, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Panthenol, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Phytate, Sodium Suflate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Alcohol*, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Benzoate, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Fragrance (Parfum) *Certified Organic Ingredient
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 5 Moderate Hazard
Cost: 473ml for $14.99
Comments: The preservatives in this one aren’t awesome – phenoxyethanol and benzyl benzoate. There’s also fragrance and cocamidopropyl betaine, so overall, I wouldn’t be using this one myself.

 

Name: Jason Shampoo Fragrance Free Daily Jason Shampoo Fragrance Free Daily
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate *Certified Organic Ingredient
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 473ml for $14.99
Comments: This one is looking much better. There’s still cocamidopropyl betaine, but the preservatives are better.

 

Kelapa Organics Shampoo for Dry Hair
Coming soon to Hello Charlie

Name: Kelapa Organics Shampoo for Dry Hair
Ingredients: Purified Water, Coco Glucoside, *Organic Aloe Vera Juice, *Organic Coconut Water, Guar Gum, Citric Acid, *Organic White Tea Extract, *Organic Calendula Extract, *Organic Oat Extract, *Organic Argan Oil, Coconut Absolute, *Organic Coconut Oil, Vanilla & Almond Extracts, *Organic Glycerin, Vanilla Essential Oil, Glyceryl Caprylate.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250 ml for $24.95
Comments: Lovely! Lots of certified organic ingredients, and no nasties. This one is on it’s way to the Hello Charlie shelves, so watch for updates.

 

Kelapa Organics Shampoo for Normal Hair
Coming soon to Hello Charlie

Name: Kelapa Organics Shampoo for Normal Hair
Ingredients: Purified Water, Coco Glucoside,*Organic Aloe Vera Juice, *Organic Coconut Water, Guar Gum, Citric Acid, *Organic Kakadu Plum Extract, *Organic Chamomile Extract, *Organic Oat Extract, Coconut Absolute, *Organic Coconut Oil, Vanilla & Almond Extracts, *Organic Glycerin, Vanilla Essential Oil.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250 ml for $24.95
Comments: Another nice one from Kelapa. Lots of certified organics. I’m looking forward to trying this one.

 

Lavera Basis Mild Shampoo
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: Lavera Basis Mild Shampoo
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Sodium Coco-Sulfate, Glycerin, Lauryl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Lauroyl Sarcosine, Coco Glucoside, Panthenyl Ethyl Ether, Honey (Mel)*, Panthenol, Glycol Distearate, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Rosa Damascena Flower Water*, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract*, Echinacea Purpurea Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract*, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract*, Alcohol*, Fragrance (Parfum)**, Limonene**, Geraniol**, Linalool**, Citral**, Citronellol** (* ingredients from certified organic agriculture ** components of natural essential oils)
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 200 ml for $12.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: The score on this one gets pushed up by the fragrance. But Lavera is NaTrue certified, and their perfumes come from essential oils. There is cocoamidopropyl betaine, but I’m happy with the rest of the ingredients. A good family shampoo.

 

Lavera Colour Shine Shampoo
Coming soon to Hello Charlie

Name: Lavera Colour Shine Shampoo
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Sodium Coco-Sulfate, Lauryl Glucoside, Betaine, Sea Salt (Maris Sal), Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract*, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract*, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract*, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract*, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Extract*, Avena Sativa (Oat) Straw Extract*, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Germ Extract*, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, PCA Glyceryl Oleate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Lactic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Hydrolyzed Corn Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Sodium Phytate, Mannitol, Alcohol*, Fragrance (Parfum)**, Limonene**, Linalool**, Citral**, Citronellol** (* ingredients from certified organic agriculture ** components of natural essential oils)
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 200ml for $14.39
Comments: The same comments apply to this shampoo from Lavera, with it’s fragrance from essential oils. A good ingredients list. This is another shampoo that is on the way to Hello Charlie!

 

Name: Lemon Myrtle Fragrances Lemon Myrtle Shampoo Lemon Myrtle Fragrances Lemon Myrtle Shampoo
Ingredients: Aqua, Decly gluoside (vegetable derived), Coco-betaine (coconut dervied), Vegetable Glycerin, Xantuan gum, Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citrodora) Oil, Aloe barbadenis Leaf Juice Organic, Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) Leaf Extract, Lemon Scented Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citrodora) Oil
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 200ml for $15.00
Comments: Nothing to get upset about here. Another good list of ingredients.

 

Name: Lush Big Liquid Shampoo Lush Big Liquid Shampoo
Ingredients: Coarse Sea Salt (Coarse Sea Salt), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (Sodium Laureth Sulfate), Fresh Organic Lemon Infusion (Citrus limonum), Fresh Sea Water (Fresh Sea Water), Toothed Wrack Seaweed Infusion (Fucus serratus), Lauryl Betaine (Lauryl Betaine), Fresh Organic Lime Juice (Citrus aurantifolia), Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera), Neroli Oil (Citrus aurantium amara), Mandarin Oil (Citrus reticulata), Vanilla Absolute (Vanilla planifolia), Orange Flower Absolute (Citrus aurantium amara), *Limonene (*Limonene), Methyl Ionone (Methyl Ionone), Perfume (Perfume) * Occurs naturally in essential oils
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 330g for $27.50
Comments: Lush is a brand I want to like, but there’s just too many problematic ingredients in their range. This one has SLS (sulfates) and perfume, so I can’t recommend it.

 

Name: Lush Brazilliant Shampoo Bar Lush Brazilliant Shampoo Bar
Ingredients: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate), Fresh Organic Oranges (Citrus aurantium dulcis), Andiroba Oil, Sweet Orange Oil (Citrus sinensis), Ylang Ylang Oil (Cananga odorata), *Benzyl Benzoate (*Benzyl Benzoate), *Benzyl Salicylate (*Benzyl Salicylate), *Farnesol (*Farnesol), *Limonene (*Limonene), *Linalool (*Linalool), Alpha-Isomethyl ionone, Amyl Cinnamal, Geraniol (Geraniol), Hydroxycitronellal, Perfume (Perfume), Colour 15510 (Colour 15510) * Occurs naturally in essential oils
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 60g for $14.95
Comments: This is a shampoo bar, so the ingredients should be good. But they’re not. SLS, fragrance, and alpha-isomethyl ionone all put me off in this one.

 

Name: Mukti Botanique Shampoo Mukti Botanique Shampoo
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Sodium Olephenate, Cocobetaine, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Soy Protein (Non GMO), Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Glycerin (Vegetarian), Aqueous Extracts of Fucus Vesiculosus (Bladderwrack)*, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula)*, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile)*, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf*, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail)*, Urtica Dioica (Nettle)*, Trifolium Pratense (Red Clover)*, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary)*, Salvia Officinalis (Sage)*, Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow)*, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Chloride (Salt), Citric Acid, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime), Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange), Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon), Ocimum Basillicum (Basil), Mentha Arvensis (Wild Mint), Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood), Salvia Sclarea (Clary Sage), Pinus Sylvestris (Pine), Eucalyptus Citriodora (Lemon Eucalyptus). Naturally occurring constituents in essential oils: citral, citronellol, farnesol, geraniol, isoeugenol, limonene, linalool.*Certified organic ingredient. Certified by the Organic Food Chain (OFC) 
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 1 Low Hazard
Cost: 500ml for $45.95
Comments: Nice ingredients! It’s an Australian made and owned brand, too. I wouldn’t pay $45.95 for shampoo, but that’s just me. And at least you’re getting awesome organic ingredients with no greenwash here.

 

Name: Neem Rich Organic Neem Shampoo Neem Rich Organic Neem Shampoo
Ingredients: Neem seed oil, cocomide dea, coconut, betaine, ethylene glycol & glycerine stearate, ethoxylated coconut sulphate, nipaguard dm dmh, vitamin E, fragrance.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $8.95
Comments: Eek! Fragrance, cocomide DEA, and DMDM hydantoin (nipaguard dm dmh). I’d be avoiding this one.

 

Name: O&M Fine Intellect Shampoo O&M Fine Intellect Shampoo
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Glycol Distearate & Laureth-4, Polyquarternium-7, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract*, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Syzygium Luehmanii (Lillypilly) Fruit Extract, Polyquarternium-39, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Phenoxyethanol, Polyquaternium-10, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (UV Inhibitor), Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Parfum (Fragrance).
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 350ml for $32.95
Comments: Oh dear. Fragrance, phenoxethanol, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, cocamidopropyl betaine, and ethylyhexyl methoxycinnamate. I think I’ll pass on this one.

 

Name: Organic Selections Lavender & Ylang Ylang Shampoo Organic Selections Lavender & Ylang Ylang Shampoo
Ingredients: Purified Water, Certified Organic Botanical Blend of Lavender, Marigold, Rosehip, Burdock, Chamomile, Horsetail (herb), Organic Safflower Oil, Biodynamic Avocado Oil, Biodynamic Macadamia Oil, Grapefruit Seed Extract, Australian Bush Extracts of Kakadu Plum, Decyl Glycoside (sugar derivative), Alpha Olefin, Aloe Vera, Soy Lecithin, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Locust Bean Gum, Guar Gum, Olive Leaf Extract, potassium sorbate, Sea Salt, Citrus Seed Extract, Lavender Essential Oil, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 375ml for $13.65
Comments: Nothing scary in here. A nice natural shampoo ingredients list.

 

Name: Organic Selections Swimmers Shampoo Organic Selections Swimmers Shampoo
Ingredients: Purified Water, Decyl Glycoside (sugar derivative), Alpha Olefin (castor oil), Aloe, Birch Extract, Soy Lecithin, Organic Jojoba Oil, Guar Gum, Biodynamic Avocado Oil, Sea Salt, Citrus Seed Extract, Rosemary Essential Oil, Kakadu Plum Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Lactic Acid, Organic Herbal Blend of Rosehip, Hops, Chamomile & Calendula
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 375ml for $ 15.20
Comments: The only bum note in this is the phenoxyethanol. Other than that, a good list of ingredients.

 

Name: Sukin Moisture Restoring Shampoo Sukin Moisture Restoring Shampoo
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil (Rose Hip), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract (Chamomile), Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, Articum Lappa Root Extract (Burdock), Equisetum Arvense Extract (Horsetail), Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Vanillin, Vanilla Planifolia Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Limonene*, Linalool*. * Natural component of essential oils.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $7.95
Comments: There’s cocoamidopropyl betaine, PEG’s and phenoxethanol. But it’s not horrible, and there are definitely worse choices.

 

Name: Sukin Protein Shampoo Sukin Protein Shampoo
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, Articum Lappa Root Extract (Burdock), Equisetum Arvense Extract (Horsetail) , Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Vanillin, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Limonene*, Linalool*. * Natural component of essential oils.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $7.95
Comments: As with the other Sukin shampoo, there’s phenoxyethanol, cocoamidopropyl betaine and PEG’s. Not awful, but I’d probably choose something else.

 

Name: Uniquely Organic Lemon Verbena Shampoo Uniquely Organic Lemon Verbena Shampoo
Ingredients: Purified Water, Coco Betaine, Alpha Olefin, Sea Salt, Coco Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Safflower Oil, Lavender Essential Oil, Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Nettle, Organic Chamomile, Vitamin E, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Vanilla Extract, Almond Extract.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 510ml for $10.95
Comments: Nothing to get worked up about here. A reasonable list of ingredients.

 

Name: Uniquely Organic Rosemary Shampoo Uniquely Organic Rosemary Shampoo
Ingredients: Purified Water, Coco Betaine, Alpha Olefin, Sea Salt, Coco Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Safflower Oil, Lemon Verbena Essential Oil, Lemon Essential Oil, Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Nettle, Organic Chamomile, Vitamin E, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Vanilla Extract, Almond Extract.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 510ml for $10.95
Comments: Similar ingredients to the other Uniquely Organic shampoo, and I should think that either of these would make a good, everyday family shampoo.

 

Name: Vanessa Megan Tangerine Shampoo Vanessa Megan Tangerine Shampoo
Ingredients: Demineralized water (H20), Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Potassium Cocoate, Glyceryl Caprylate, *Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, *Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Leaf Extract, *Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract, *Matricaria (Chamomile) Extract, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Maris Sal, Xanthan Gum, Sclerotium Gum, *Citrus Reticulata Peel (Tangerine) Essential Oil, *Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Essential Oil, *Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Essential Oil, Xanthan Gum, Mineral Salt. *Certified organic ingredients
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 500ml for $39.95
Comments: The only ingredient I’m not fussed on is the cocoamidopropyl betaine. Otherwise, it looks pretty good.

 

Weleda Millet Nourishing Shampoo
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: Weleda Millet Nourishing Shampoo
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Disodium Coco-Glucoside Citrate, Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids, Alcohol, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Fragrance (Parfum)*, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium PCA, Panicum Miliaceum (Millet) Seed Extract, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Lactic Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sucrose Laurate, PCA Glyceryl Oleate, Arginine, Sodium Phytate, Limonene*, Linalool*, Citral*, Courmarin*. *from natural essential oils
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 5 Moderate Hazard
Cost: 190 ml for $19.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: As always, Weleda scores high on the EWG database because of their perfumes, which are all from essential oils. But they still get counted the same as synthetic perfumes. Weleda are NaTrue certified, with some of the highest standards in the world. I can’t see any problematic ingredients in this, so as always, I’d recommend these as a safer shampoo choice.

 

Weleda Oat Replenishing Shampoo
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: Weleda Oat Replenishing Shampoo
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Disodium Coco Glucoside Citrate, Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids, Alcohol, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Sucrose Laurate, Fragrance (Parfum)*, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium PCA, Avena Sativa (Oat) Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed oil, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Lactic Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, PCA Glyceryl Oleate, Arginine, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Sodium Phytate, Limonene*, Linalool*, Citronellol*, Geraniol*, Coumarin*. *from natural essential oils.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 5 Moderate Hazard
Cost: 190 ml for $19.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: Again, the high EWG score relates to the perfumes/essential oils. See the previous Weleda shampoo. Good ingredients in this one, too, so I’d recommend.

 

Weleda Wheat Balancing Shampoo
Buy at Hello Charlie

Name: Weleda Wheat Balancing Shampoo
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Disodium Coco-Glucoside Citrate, Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids, Alcohol, Glycerin, Fragrance (Parfum)*, Xanthan Gum, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium PCA, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Ruscus Aculeatus Root Extract, Viola Tricolor Extract, Lactic Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sucrose Laurate, PCA Glyceryl Oleate, Arginine, Sodium Phytate, Limonene*, Linalool*, Geraniol*, Coumarin*. *from natural essential oils.
EWG Skin Deep Rating: 5 Moderate Hazard
Cost: 190 ml for $19.95 (Buy at Hello Charlie)
Comments: More EWG issues with the fragrance/essential oils, as per the previous Weleda shampoos. I have no issues with the ingredients in this one, so another recommend from me.

 

Name: Wild Gentle Shampoo Wild Gentle Shampoo
Ingredients: Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Behentrimonium Metosulphate, Cetearyl alcohol, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Tocopheryl (Vitamin E), Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Methylchloroisothiazolinone (Preservative) and Methylisothiazolinone (Preservative), Chamomile Extract, Calendula Extract, Lime flower Extract, Lavender Essential Oil, Mandarin Essential Oil, Tea Tree Essential Oil
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $14.95
Comments: Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and methylisothiazolinone (MIT) put this straight out of the running for me. These are preservatives I always avoid, no question.

 

Name: Wild Henna Shampoo Wild Henna Shampoo
Ingredients: Water, Sodium Olefin Sulphonate, Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Behentrimonium Metosulphate, Cetearyl alcohol, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Tocopheryl (Vitamin E), Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Methylchloroisothiazolinone (Preservative) and Methylisothiazolinone (Preservative). Organic Herbal Extracts: Henna, Burdock, Black Walnut, Horsetail, Nettle, Raspberry, Yarrow Organic Essential Oils: Rosemary, Peppermint and Sage
EWG Skin Deep Rating: n/a
Cost: 250ml for $14.95
Comments: See my comments above on the MIT and MCI in this product. I would absolutely avoid.

Are there any shampoos you’d like to see added to this list? Share in the comments below!

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7 Responses

  1. What about eco store? Vitamin E (tocopherol) is a preservative, so all of these liquid shampoos do have preservatives listed. “Vitamin” seems ok but it is not at all as good as it sounds and is almost always derived from genetically modified soybeans which will have roundup/glyphosate residues, which kill natural beneficial bacteria on the scalp (and body as it washes off). Nearly all personal care products contain tocopherol because it is cheap and preserves/lengthens shelf life of oily products.

    1. Thanks, Bec! Can’t believe we forgot ecostore. I’ll get it added to the list and we’ll get it reviewed as soon as we can. Re the Vitamin E, it’s actually an antioxidant, not a preservative. And I agree that a lot of it comes from GMO sources, but there are a lot of good companies who source non-GMO ingredients, so it’s worth looking out for them (Andalou Naturals is one of these).

  2. You can buy Everescents from their website. I’ve used before – and like. I’m currently using the Acure shampoo and conditioner (Argan oil range) – very nice too. For me though (and my friend), the only shampoo I can’t do without (I use it every 2nd or 3rd wash) is MooGoo. Been using it for many years because it’s the only shampoo that quickly fixes (or prevents if used solely) flakey scalp. I don’t know why this is – I’ve used non-toxic products for over ten years – tried many brands but only Moogoo will fix the scalp! Thanks for the Cheat Sheets 🙂

    1. Thanks for letting me know about Everscents, Jane! And you’re the second person who’s let me know about Moogoo today – it’s been added to the list and we’ll get it reviewed as soon as we can 🙂

  3. Hi Vanessa,

    I’ve tried a number of shampoos from the list til I found last year Beauty and the Bees ( shampoo bar – only tried Voodoo black bamboo and bought recently the Real Beer). The bar lasts for months and the hair looks fantastic. So impressed I bought supply for a year. The best brand I have ever tried. I highly recommend it and would be nice to see some Beauty and the Bees products in your shop.

    1. Thanks for the thumbs up on Beauty and the Bees! I am looking at getting some shampoo bars in, so I’ll check out B&B’s 🙂

  4. Hi Vanessa,
    Love your site. Ausganica is a brand of australian certified organic products that I use. Their Rose Geranium Shampoo and Conditioner are really good. I have fine slightly greying hair, and it now has more body in great condition using these products. Also tried on two of my grandaughter’s, both have different hair. One fine curls, the other wavy. Worked well on both girls hair. Did not have to use an oil or added treatment before brushing, which is something they normally have to do with any other product. It doesn’t have a huge lather but that’s normal for most sulphate free shampoo. I also use their Rose Geranium nourishing hand/body lotion. I switched to this after Moogoo just didn’t cut it for me in winter. I do like some of the Moogoo products, but unlike one of the previous comments, my husband developed a scaly scalp when using this one. I think what works for some doesn’t work for others.

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