The Effects of Gluten

The presence of the protein complex, gluten, is associated with hair loss. It is believed that that gluten has the ability to stress out the adrenal glands, causing imbalances in the hormone levels; thus, resulting to hair loss. Hair products containing gluten may produce some reactions like rashes and scalp irritation. Since gluten is a large molecule, there is a debate whether it can be absorb by the skin, especially the scalp. Even if some people believe that gluten can’t be absorbed by the scalp, there have been subjective evidences that shampoos containing gluten cause rashes and skin irritation. However, when it is ingested, surely gluten will surely trigger the symptoms stated above.

Ingredients to Be Avoided

Checking for shampoos free of gluten can be time consuming and confusing. It is time consuming since you will need to check every product’s ingredients if it contains gluten or not. It is confusing because many brands use the scientific names of gluten and gluten-rich ingredients. The following are the common alternative names of gluten that are found in most gluten free shampoos and other hair care products.

• Hydrolyzed vegetable protein
• Amino peptide complex
• Hydrolyzed malt extract
• Beta glucan
• Prolamine
• Maltodextrin
• Dextrin

In addition, some hair care products put in their labels the names and, sometimes, the scientific names of gluten-rich ingredients such as barley (hordeum vulgare), rye (secale cereale), wheat (triticum vulgare) and oats (avena sativa). You should also be vigilant for the presence of Vitamin E (tocopherols) since these are often derived from wheat germ. The presence of these ingredients must be checked and then avoided.

On Finding Gluten Free Shampoos

Aside from checking the ingredients of a gluten free shampoo and conditioner, there are still other things that you need to consider. Refrain from hair care products that are not guaranteed to be free of gluten. You can use organic shampoos but always remember not all of them are gluten-free. Choose fragrance free, gluten free products since they have no hidden gluten contents.  The safest way to avoid gluten is the buy hair care products from guaranteed gluten free shampoo brands. To help you out in your search for shampoos free of gluten, here is an up-to-date gluten free shampoo list.

• Dove
• Garnier
• Head Organics
• Hugo Naturals
• Organique
• Kirkland
• Ecco Bella
• Acure Organics
• Morrocco Method
• Gluten-Free Savonnerie

What is good about these brands is their availability to various age groups and most of them have product ranges for babies too. Before using these hair care products, always consult your hair care provider. Awareness of the presence of gluten in your hair care products will definitely help you avoid symptoms associated with gluten intolerance and will make your hair healthier and stronger.