Natural haircare and why switching will improve scalp and hair health

As consumers we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to hair care. Brands and products offer instant results, hair saving technology and a wonderfully gratifying experience. So how do we choose? The first and most important consideration, as with skin care, are the ingredients

Because shampoos are ‘wash-off’ formulas, many brands will ‘fill’ their formulas with cheap synthetic-based ingredients that offer instant effect on the hair. The use of sulphates and silicones will provide an instant result – soft and shiny hair – but these effects are sadly a short-term illusion that can lead to detrimental effects with continued use

Sulphate-based shampoos will dry the hair, damage its cuticle, and accelerate colour-fade – this is the downside to these filler ingredients. When the hair cuticle is compromised, hair will become frizzy, dull and be more prone to breakage. That’s bad news if you have thinning hair or invest in costly colour treatments

Silicone, and its many different names (anything ending with “cone” is a form of silicone eg. dimethicone, cyclomethicone, etc), are used to “seal” the cuticle of the hair. It smooths, locks in moisture, and provides that enviable lustre and shine. Sounds amazing, doesn’t it? Sadly, it is purely a veneer, and an addictive one at that

Silicone acts as a barrier to lock in moisture, but over time, no moisture can penetrate the hair shaft, leaving it drier than before. These ingredients can also build up in the hair making it difficult to treat and style, whilst attracting dirt and debris which ultimately leaves it heavy, greasy and dull

The problem also lies with our scalp itself – it has been found to be up to 4x more absorbing than the skin of the forearm. And because there is the chance hair products can end up in the eyes and mouth when we’re washing, it really is vital to know what ingredients are in the formula and what effect they can have on our skin and our body

Ingredients like PEGs, parabens, petroleum by-products and mineral oil, and DEA and TEA, are used extensively in shampoos and hair styling products like gels and waxes. These all have a history of being skin irritants, and worse. When it comes to your styling products, which you use every single day, be mindful of these ingredients. The Hunter Lab Natural Hair Pomade is the cleanest formula available, being 98.4% natural. And it does not compromise efficacy, giving a long lasting firm hold with a matte finish every time. The best part, it easily washes out with water

Everyone’s hair is different and it is up to the individual user to choose what works best for them. At Hunter Lab, we have chosen to create high-performing hair care products that are sulphate, silicone and synthetic-free. We have carefully selected ingredients to actively nourish and protect your hair, and give you that enviable shine, naturally

Our hero ingredients across the range are:

HEMP SEED OIL – Rich in protein, Omegas 3 & 6, Vitamin E and important minerals, Hemp Seed Oil smoothes, nourishes and deeply hydrates hair. It offers similar benefits to silicone without the potential negative effects

PANTHENOL – A derivative of Vitamin B5, Panthenol offers superior moisturising and emollient properties to assist in moisture retention, enhance shine and ensure hair can be easily detangled

AUSTRALIAN NATIVE BOTANICALS: QUANDONG, DESERT LIME, AND WATTLESEED EXTRACTS – These Australian native botanicals are all rich in anti-oxidants, minerals and vitamins to nourish and rejuvenate hair, and neutralise free radicals that cause damage at a molecular level

The Invigorating Shampoo and Nourishing Conditioner are crafted to deliver superior results, and encourage healthy hair growth. Upon first use, hair is instantly soft, smooth and more lustrous, and feels full bodied without being weighed down. With continued use, hair is undoubtedly stronger and more resilient, being far less prone to breakage. It feels full, manageable, and shines with health

It is important to note there is an acclimation period when switching from synthetic to natural hair care. It takes time (and multiple washes) to fully remove built up silicones and fillers from the hair shaft. We find this process can last up to two weeks depending on how often you wash your hair. Once all residue has been removed, you will be well on your way to lustrous, compliment-worthy locks without compromising scalp and hair health and safety

Shop Invigorating Shampoo $45,  Nourishing Conditioner $45, Natural Hair Pomade $45 or the Hair Care Kit $95