Shampoo and conditioner has been one of the hardest things for me to master in the past almost 3 years. 
I’ve always struggled with shampoo and conditioner anyway (even in my pre-toxin free life) because I have an incredibly dry scalp and very sensitive skin and have been known to have reactions to different hair products.
Years ago I tried the “no poo” method and used only Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda. That was not my idea of fun. 
Then, I found Function of Beauty and I was so excited, I loved it, I thought it was toxin free… then I became a clean beauty advocate and learned how to read labels and realized I had been green washed. 
So, let’s break down why you need to read those hair care labels and my experience with the 3 I’ve tried since starting this toxin free journey. 
Common Ingredients in store bought shampoo/conditioner such as (but not limited to) Herbal Essence, L’Oreal, OGX: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Fragrance/Parfum, BHT, Methylisothiazolinone, PEGs, Propylene Glycol, Artificial Dyes, and many many more
What about the more expensive hair care though? 
That must be better right? Wrong…
Common Ingredients in more high end hair care such as (but not limited to) Monat, Melaleuca, Arbonne, Modere: Urea, Fragrance/Parfum, PEGs, Phenoxyethanol, disodium EDTA
When you dig deeper into these ingredients, you will find:
Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive) – classified as expected to be toxic or harmful
The European Food Safety Authority reports that this substance can cause liver cancer in animals
This peer-reviewed study reports this substance is a tumor promoter
Upper respiratory tract irritation
Development/Reproductive Toxicity – A peer-reviewed study found this substance caused adverse developmental effects in rats.
Skin sensitizer – can instigate immune system response that can include itching, burning, scaling, hives, and blistering of skin
Banned or found unsafe for use in cosmetics – Canada – Prohibited and Restricted Cosmetics Ingredients
Neurotoxicity – In-vitro study demonstrates this common biocide is highly toxic to neurons
The US EPA reports the LC50 value is very toxic to aquatic life
I had to actually stop researching this here friends, the post was getting too long.
TIME TO SWITCH!
I have officially tried 3 toxin free shampoos/conditioners and am excited to share the winner with you.
My reviews:
Carina Organics: 12 fl. oz for $10.99 – I had to use a tonnnnn to feel like it was doing anything in my hair. My hair felt more dry while using as well. I did really enjoy the smell though. Would not order again.
Evolv: 8.5 fl. oz for $26 – By far the most expensive in the toxin free world (but still cheaper than some of the toxic ones above). Again, enjoyed the smell. Felt it worked much better than Carina and would have continued using had I not found a more affordable option.
Attitude: 16 fl. oz for $9.95 – Clearly the best option looking just from a cost standpoint. Even better is that it performs better (in my opinion) than the other two. This one worked the most like conventional hair care products I’ve used in the past. I don’t personally like the smell of the Soothing and Volumizing one but I love the smell of the Nourish and Shine. I don’t feel like I have to use too much and my hair and scalp feel great.
I love testing out different toxin free products for all of you, so if you know of others you want me to try, let me know. Or, if you want me to check the ingredients in your hair care (or any other products), just comment below, I’m always happy to help!
Raising Clean 