What's in Mane Juice is GREAT- What isn't is even better.
We know what’s in Mane Juice is great, but did you know what ISN’T in Mane Juice is even better?
Check the labels on many of your favorite products are you’re sure to find a few of these harmful ingredients on the list, the biggest culprit being silicone. Even if you don't see it specifically listed, it's likely hiding under some other name. Odds are, if it doesn't say "Silicone Free" it probably isn't.
Silicones are like an impenetrable layer (such as a raincoat) around the mane and tail. Of course, this smoothes the hair and makes is softer and more manageable- so what’s the problem? The silicone basically blocks the skin and cells. The immune system can’t remove toxins, nor can good substances be absorbed. Silicone works this way in human hair products too, coating the hair follicles and filling in the breaks and little microscopic one-way scales on the hair making it smooth and shiny. Occasional use on show day is probably not the biggest deal, HOWEVER continued use makes hair brittle from silicone build and subject to breakage, eventually the build up will also begin to actually dull the hair.
Parabens often used as preservatives, manufacturers use Methylparaben, Ethyl paraben, Propyl paraben, Butylparaben, Isopropyl paraben and Isobutyl paraben. These substances are linked to cancer and may have hormonal-like effects on the body.
Surfactants are substances that lower surface tension, meaning they make the water softer and dirt is removed more easily. Surfactants may act as detergents, wetting and foaming agents or emulsifiers. Natural surfactants are made of natural, raw materials such as animal and vegetable fats or sugars. Synthetic surfactants are based on synthetic raw materials such as Benzene, Olefins or Ethylene Oxide. Surfactants such as Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Lauretha Sulfate (SLES) can dehydrate the skin. Polyethylene glycols (PEG's) cause the skin to become more permeable to toxins and may be allergenic. PEG derivatives are often obtained from potentially carcinogenic (and environmentally harmful) petroleum derivatives.
While we’ll admit many of these products do deliver an immediate result (and are probably fine to use on the occasion) – it’s important to note they can actually be very damaging in the long run.