Ever since we launched holi (mane) and holi (locks), I have received tons of messages from men and women suffering from hair loss, hair thinning, balding, alopecia, and more. For many, this can be genetic, but for others, the cosmetic products and choices that make up your wellness and health regimes can actually be playing a part in this hair loss problem. 

There are so many toxic products still on the market (particularly in the USA) so when we saw recently that 30+ dry shampoos were recalled from the market for containing harmful levels of a chemical called benzene, we weren’t shocked. What we did know was that we had to share the news - particularly for those who might already be struggling with hair loss.

What’s the problem with dry shampoo?  

The chemical that has been banned is benzene. Benzene is a chemical that is either light yellow or totally colorless at room temperature.

It’s a widely used chemical in the United States, ranking in the top 20 chemicals for production volume. 

A fundamental way that people get exposed to benzene is through breathing and air contamination - i.e., breathing in cosmetic products that it is in (dry shampoo) or via penetration through the skin barrier. 

Is it bad?

Mainstream medical and pharmaceutical companies will tell you that there is no problem with benzene being a key player in your cosmetic products, but the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) does classify benzene as ‘carcinogenic to humans' (quiet eye roll). 

It’s not just benzene that is the problem, though.

When benzene is combined with other damaging ingredients like solvents and denatured alcohol (both used in dry shampoo) - they can become even more damaging, disrupting the skin and scalp barrier, actually increasing the penetration of the ingredients in the products (bad news if these are toxic).

How would these cause hair thinning?

Benzene is a powerful free radical generator.

Free radicals do damage in the body by releasing reactive oxygen species.

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between these reactive oxygen species and the ability of our body to successfully detox and remove these reactive products. 

When considering hair loss, there are some studies that have suggested that the generation of these free radicals might play a role in hair loss and hair thinning. 

Hair growth is coordinated by the extracellular matrix and the dermal papilla cells (DCM), where the DCM then communicates to the stem cells, which then lead to the growth of individual hair strands.

These dermal papilla cells are often called the ‘most important cell type found in the hair root’ and so a strong stimulatory message on these DPC cells means that these messages support the development of the new hair, development of the number of anagen hairs, and are effective at fighting hair loss or hair thinning.

On the flip side, it would then make sense that the free radicals in benzene may negatively impact the strength of these DPC cells - thus contributing to weaker messaging, slower development of anagen hairs, and overall higher levels of hair loss.

Ok, so benzenes, denatured alcohol, and solvents are not a good combination.

What should I do?

First up, bin the drugstore dry shampoo now once and for all. Instead, we suggest sourcing a clean, dry shampoo, or shampoo powder, where possible, or looking into alternatives like arrowroot powder - or just focusing on washing your hair more frequently, rather than maintaining it with potentially damaging products.

Next - consider nourishing your hair to help with the re-growth. Again, understand that this may take a while but that it is possible.

If you’re looking to deeply repair, or fight against the look of hair loss, balding, or hair thinning - our newest hair product, holi (locks) is our recommendation for you.

How can holi (locks) help?

Backed by advanced hair science and clinical studies, holi (locks) is superpowered with four scientifically proven active ingredients that hold power to help renew and restore the scalp and individual hair strands: 

Patented, trademarked, and science-backed, Follicusan™ is a milk-based bioactive, containing active signaling molecules, which clinical studies have proven to stimulate the dermal papilla cells on the scalp, thus supporting hair growth. 

Capixyl™ is a peptide (acetyl tetrapeptide-3) that is combined with a plant-based red clover extract, densely rich in Biochanin A; these ingredients work together on DHT modulation in the body, focusing on inhibiting the production of 5-α reductase that promotes the hair loss and balding cycle, and also working simultaneously to stimulate the renewal of the extracellular matrix.

​​Redensyl™ is known as the ‘human hair growth galvanizer’ and targets stem cells and human fibroblasts in the scalp to improve hair growth while reducing the likelihood of hair loss.

And finally, Beracare ARS Hair Serum™ is the fourth active ingredient made up of Passiflora Edulis Seed, Oryza Sativa Rice Bran, and Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Oil. It is the perfect non-silicone solution to deliver the ultimate gloss, softness, and shine for your hair. 

These molecules and extracts have powerful power on the ECM and DCP.

When applied topically for at least 12 weeks, this overnight strengthening treatment serum will help reverse the damage that dry shampoo might have done to your hair throughout the duration you have been using it.

Apply it to dirty hair overnight 3-4 times a week from scalp to mid-section of the hair (although you can go down to the ends of your hair if you want to), wash out the next morning and go!

And what else? Supplement with holi (mane) for extra benefits. Add to your smoothie, tea, or coffee for an extra hair boost in your hair care routine . 

***THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR REGULATED BY THE FDA. WE ARE NOT DOCTORS, THEREFORE ALWAYS CONSULT WITH YOUR DOCTOR FIRST.