The Welpr Rating is determined by a scoring formula. The formula takes into account the products safety, user satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing. Click here to learn more.

What we look for:

  • Simple formulations using fully natural or safe synthetic ingredients
  • No parabens, PEGs, phthalates, harsh sulfates, BHA/BHT, artificial dyes, formaldehyde or formaldehyde releasers, or undisclosed synthetic fragrance (unless certified safe)
  • Minimal, necessary preservatives only
  • Trusted third-party certifications when available
  • Transparent sourcing, ingredients, and manufacturing practices

View our full standards here.

Our Methodology and Ratings

Find Non-Toxic Hair Volumizer

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Create Lift Volumizing Foam - Innersense

Create Lift Volumizing Foam - Innersense
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.8
/5
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Buy Now
on Credo Beauty

Certifications

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<p>This product is <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#welpr-approved" target="_blank">Welpr Approved</a>, meaning it has been vetted against our <a href="https://www.welpr.com/how-we-vet-products/bath-body-hair-makeup" target="_blank">personal care standards</a> and contains no ingredients from our no list.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#certified-b-corp" target="_blank">B Corp certification</a> indicates that a company meets high social and environmental standards.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#certified-plastic-neutral" target="_blank">Plastic Neutral Certified</a> label indicates that a brand has measured and offset its plastic footprint by supporting equivalent plastic waste recovery and recycling efforts.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#climate-neutral-certified" target="_blank">Climate Neutral certification</a> verifies that a brand has measured, reduced, and offset its entire carbon footprint.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#leaping-bunny" target="_blank">Leaping Bunny certification</a> assures that products are genuinely cruelty-free, verified through rigorous audits and a comprehensive Supplier Monitoring System.</p>

Highlights

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This product is free from harsh sulfates like SLS and SLES, which can strip skin and scalp and trigger irritation.
This product is free from synthetic dyes that may irritate skin or cause behavioral issues.
This product is free from phthalates, a type of plasticizer linked to hormone disruption and reduced fertility.
This product is free from formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, preservatives that release toxic gas linked to cancer, allergies, and skin irritation.
This product is free from parabens, a class of preservatives linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer.

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$28.00
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Product Details

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  • Shapes, defines, and smooths hair, enhancing natural texture while providing light hold.
  • Ideal for adding texture, boosting volume, defining curls, and refreshing roots between washes.
  • Formulated with organic ingredients like aloe vera, honey, and essential oils for a balanced, non-toxic experience.
  • Ingredients are sourced ethically and sustainably, ensuring clean and green haircare.
  • Vegan and cruelty-free, making it a conscientious choice for animal lovers.

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Provides excellent volume, especially for curly and wavy hair.
  • Suits a health-conscious lifestyle with non-toxic ingredients.
  • Helps define curls and reduce frizz.
  • Lightweight and non-greasy, maintaining hair's natural feel.
  • Works well as a curl refresher for extending wash days.

Cons

  • Some users find the scent unpleasant or too strong.
  • The pump mechanism can be difficult for some users.

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Water, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Gel*, Cyamopsis Tetragonolobus (Guar) Gum*, Sorbitol, Sclerotium Gum, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Water*, Organic Rooibos African Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract*, Gluconolactone, Sodium Benzoate, Calcium Gluconate, Potassium Sorbate, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Glycerin, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract*, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract*, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract*, Aspalathus Linearis Leaf Extract*, Eucalyptus Globulus Extract*, Citric Acid, Maltodextrin, Honey Extract*, Linalool* Certified Organic *A Natural Component Of Essential Oils

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Natural InstaVolume Volumizing Mousse - EVOLVh

Natural InstaVolume Volumizing Mousse - EVOLVh
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.75
/5
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Certifications

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<p>This product is <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#welpr-approved" target="_blank">Welpr Approved</a>, meaning it has been vetted against our <a href="https://www.welpr.com/how-we-vet-products/bath-body-hair-makeup" target="_blank">personal care standards</a> and contains no ingredients from our no list.</p>

Highlights

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This product is free from harsh sulfates like SLS and SLES, which can strip skin and scalp and trigger irritation.
This product is free from synthetic dyes that may irritate skin or cause behavioral issues.
This product is free from phthalates, a type of plasticizer linked to hormone disruption and reduced fertility.
This product is free from formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, preservatives that release toxic gas linked to cancer, allergies, and skin irritation.
This product is cruelty-free, meaning it was not tested on animals—look for certification from Leaping Bunny or PETA to verify the claim.
The Made in USA label indicates that a product has substantial U.S. content and manufacturing.
This product is free from parabens, a class of preservatives linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer.

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$29.00
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Product Details

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  • Provides long-lasting volume and bounce without containing toxic ingredients.
  • Formulated with plant-based ingredients that nourish and hydrate the hair.
  • Eliminates frizz and flyaways, leaving hair smooth and shiny.
  • Features a clean, non-sticky formula that conditions and protects hair.
  • Free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, silicones, and synthetic fragrances.
  • Cruelty-free and vegan, perfect for those avoiding animal-derived products.

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Great for adding volume to fine, curly hair types.
  • Fragrance-free formula that doesn't irritate sensitive scalps.
  • Economical with long-lasting use.

Cons

  • Some users experienced issues with the pump, leading to leaks and malfunctions.
  • A few found the product didn't provide expected volume without extra effort.

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Water, Glycerine*, Manihot Esculenta (Tapioca) Root Starch*, Flax Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil*, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract*, Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil*, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil*, Lecithin*, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil*, Rosa Canina Flower Extract+, Achillea Millefolium Extract+, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract*, Cymbopogon (Lemongrass) Schoenanthus Extract*, Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract+, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil*, Vitis Vinifera (Red Grape) Seed Oil*, Vaccinium Macrocapron (Cranberry) Seed Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil*, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil*, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil*, Cinnamomum Cassia Leaf Oil*, Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Flower Oil*, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Leaf Oil*, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil*, Citric Acid, Tocopherol From Rosa Canina (Rose Hip)*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Juniperus Virginiana (Cedarwood) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Leaf Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Commiphora Guidotti, Citrus Aurantium (Neroli) Oil, Gluconolactone*, Dehydroacetic Acid*, Benzyl Alcohol*

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Voluminous Spray - Rahua

Voluminous Spray - Rahua
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.75
/5
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Certifications

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<p>This product is <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#welpr-approved" target="_blank">Welpr Approved</a>, meaning it has been vetted against our <a href="https://www.welpr.com/how-we-vet-products/bath-body-hair-makeup" target="_blank">personal care standards</a> and contains no ingredients from our no list.</p>

Highlights

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This product is vegan, meaning it contains no animal-derived ingredients—look for a certification like PETA or Vegan.org to verify the claim.
This product is free from harsh sulfates like SLS and SLES, which can strip skin and scalp and trigger irritation.
This product is free from synthetic dyes that may irritate skin or cause behavioral issues.
This product is free from phthalates, a type of plasticizer linked to hormone disruption and reduced fertility.
This product is free from formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, preservatives that release toxic gas linked to cancer, allergies, and skin irritation.
This product is cruelty-free, meaning it was not tested on animals—look for certification from Leaping Bunny or PETA to verify the claim.
This product is free from parabens, a class of preservatives linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer.

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$33.32
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Product Details

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  • Alcohol-free formula provides lightweight lift and texture without weighing hair down.
  • Naturally fresh scent with lavender and eucalyptus for a refreshing experience.
  • Plant-based formula helps manage oils and revitalizes scalp for a clean, healthy look.
  • Can be applied directly to roots for a quick refresh or all over for added volume.
  • Contributes to rainforest conservation with every purchase, supporting a sustainable future.

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Adds volume and body without weighing hair down.
  • Lightweight formula that’s great for wavy and fine hair.
  • Organic and free from harsh chemicals, ideal for health-conscious users.
  • Leaves hair soft, bouncy, and with a pleasant scent.

Cons

  • Some users found it ineffective as a strong hold product, better suited to light styling.
  • A few bottles had issues with smell or packaging, suggesting sporadic quality control.

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Aqua, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract*, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) Extract*, Zea Mays (Corn) Silk Extract*, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract*, Saccharum Ofiicinarum (Sugar Cane)*, Lavandula Angtstifolia (Lavender) Oil*, Citronellol, Farnesol, Lilial, Limonene*, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf (Limonene) Oil*, Citric Acid, Sodium Chloride, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Pectin* Organic Ingredient*

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Organics Volumizing Foam - John Masters Organics

Organics Volumizing Foam - John Masters Organics
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.75
/5
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Certifications

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<p>This product is <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#welpr-approved" target="_blank">Welpr Approved</a>, meaning it has been vetted against our <a href="https://www.welpr.com/how-we-vet-products/bath-body-hair-makeup" target="_blank">personal care standards</a> and contains no ingredients from our no list.</p>
<p>Products rated <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#ewg" target="_blank">EWG-3</a> feature a moderate potential hazard rating and fair ingredient transparency. EWG ratings may change. Check the source for most up to date rating. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/products/962855-John_Masters_Organics_Volumizing_Foam_with_Quinoa__Acacia_Gum/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#peta-certified" target="_blank">PETA certification</a> identifies cosmetics, personal-care, and household products as cruelty-free ensuring no animal testing or animal-derived ingredients are used worldwide.</p>

Highlights

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This product is free from harsh sulfates like SLS and SLES, which can strip skin and scalp and trigger irritation.
This product is free from synthetic dyes that may irritate skin or cause behavioral issues.
This product is free from phthalates, a type of plasticizer linked to hormone disruption and reduced fertility.
This product is free from formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, preservatives that release toxic gas linked to cancer, allergies, and skin irritation.
This product is free from parabens, a class of preservatives linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer.

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GREAT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the middle third of the best products.
Est. Price
$29.00
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Product Details

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  • Made with over 70% organic ingredients for a natural approach to hair care.
  • Silicone, synthetic color, petrochemical, dye, and paraben free, ensuring a non-toxic experience.
  • Contains organic acacia senegal gum to provide long-lasting hold and volume.
  • Uses hydrolyzed quinoa to strengthen hair and reduce frizz.
  • Incorporates soy protein to enhance hair thickness and volume.

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Great for fine hair, adding volume and making styling easy.
  • Leaves hair with a natural, fresh scent that's not overwhelming.
  • Rated low in toxicity, making it a safer choice for health-conscious users.
  • Works well as a hybrid between mousse and spray gel, ideal for various styling needs.

Cons

  • Some users with sensitive scalps might find it irritating.
  • Those looking for strong hold may find it less effective in humid conditions.

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera)*, Water, Glycerin, Caprylyl/Capryl Glycoside, Alcohol, Pullulan, Decyl Glucoside, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Boswellia Carterii Oil (Frankincense)*, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Quillaja Saponaria Wood Extract*, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil*, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea), Sodium Surfactin, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate, Trehalose, Babassuamidopropyl Betaine, Acacia Senegal Gum*, Galactoarabinan, Sorbitol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Limonene, Linalool

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Feed Your Roots Organic Mousse - Yarok

Feed Your Roots Organic Mousse - Yarok
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.7
/5
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Certifications

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<p>This product is <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#welpr-approved" target="_blank">Welpr Approved</a>, meaning it has been vetted against our <a href="https://www.welpr.com/how-we-vet-products/bath-body-hair-makeup" target="_blank">personal care standards</a> and contains no ingredients from our no list.</p>

Highlights

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This product is vegan, meaning it contains no animal-derived ingredients—look for a certification like PETA or Vegan.org to verify the claim.
This product is free from harsh sulfates like SLS and SLES, which can strip skin and scalp and trigger irritation.
This product is free from synthetic dyes that may irritate skin or cause behavioral issues.
This product is free from phthalates, a type of plasticizer linked to hormone disruption and reduced fertility.
This product is free from formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, preservatives that release toxic gas linked to cancer, allergies, and skin irritation.
This product is free from parabens, a class of preservatives linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer.

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$32.00
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Product Details

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  • Transforms thin and damaged hair into voluminous and healthy hair, especially beneficial for curly and wavy hair types.
  • Adds volume and dimension without weighing hair down, providing a non-sticky and flake-free finish.
  • Infused with natural ingredients like coconut oil, black currant, beet root, and blueberry extract to stimulate growth and reduce hair loss.
  • Easy to use for volume enhancement and curl management with just a small application and blow-drying.
  • Organic, cruelty-free, and vegan, free from alcohol, parabens, sulfates, chemicals and gluten.

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Contains all-natural ingredients, safe for sensitive skin.
  • Lightweight formula adds volume without making hair sticky.
  • Subtle, pleasant fragrance that doesn't overwhelm.
  • Leaves hair smooth and manageable with a gentle hold.
  • Works well for curly, fine, and sensitive scalps.

Cons

  • Some users with very sensitive scalps may experience irritation.
  • May not provide strong volume for those seeking commercial-level results.

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Distilled Vitamin-Enhanced Aqua (Water), Non-Gmo Corn Or Rice Extract, Organic Vegetable Glycerol, Organic Herbal Extracts Of: Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Extract, Beta Vulgaris (Beet Root) Extract, Kham Thai, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Blueberry), Natural Plant Sourced Vitamins B1, B2, B3 & C, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Plant Sourced Kosher Vegan Xanthan Gum, Plant Sourced Kosher Vegan Potassium Sorbate, Organic African Black Soap, Vitamin A (Plant Sourced Infusion), Essential Oils Of: Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary), Lisea Cubeba (May Chang)

Our Product Rating System

Our Product Rating System

First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.

Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.

Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.

Welpr Rating:

5.0/5

The Welpr Rating takes into account 3 things:

  1. Product Safety
  2. Consumer Satisfaction
  3. Ethics & Environment
Product safety

Part 1: Product safety

We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.

Consumer satisfaction

Part 2: Consumer satisfaction

We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).

Ethics & Environment

Part 3: Ethics & Environment

When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.

Common Harmful Chemicals in Hair Volumizer

Chemical Name

Why it’s harmful

Phthalate

Phthalates, linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and cancer, are banned in the European Union but remain prevalent in U.S. cosmetics. They are widely used in personal care products, such as nail polish, fragrances, and eyelash glue and other products. A significant loophole allows phthalates to be added to fragrances without disclosure. Health concerns include endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential carcinogenicity.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate

Sodium laureth sulfate, derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, is a surfactant used in sudsy products like toothpaste, detergents, and shampoos. While it acts as a cleansing and emulsifying agent, it can sometimes contain toxic impurities such as 1,4-dioxane. This chemical has raised health concerns due to its potential to cause skin, lung, and eye irritation, organ toxicity, and, primarily because of contamination by 1,4 dioxane, cancer.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is recognised as a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant according to ICSC. It may cause allergic reactions and eye irritation as stated by the HSDB. Exposure may even result in eye burns, as per CAMEO. Depending on its form - which may range from a solid (90-98% purity), to a paste (30-41%), or an aqueous solution (28-50%) - it can significantly irritate skin and eyes, with adverse effects escalating with increased concentration. Despite these hazards, it is not a skin sensitizer according to CHEMINFO, while eChemPortal: ERMA and MSDSonline endorse its classification as an irritant.

Triclosan

Triclosan is a synthetic pesticide with antibacterial properties commonly added to detergents, soaps, and various personal care products such as deodorants and toothpastes. Although it lacks the ability to combat viruses causing colds and flus, it's used in products like body washes, disinfectants, and some toothpastes to resist bacterial growth. In 2016, the FDA limited its use in antibacterial soaps, but the compound is still permitted in other products. The European Union prohibited its presence in food-contact items in 2010. Exposure to triclosan has been associated with hormone disruption, increased breast cancer risk, liver damage, and the development of resistant super-germs.

Sources: 
Benzene

Benzene is a colorless, sweet-smelling, highly flammable liquid that evaporates quickly into the air and slightly dissolves in water. It's a byproduct of both natural processes and human activities, used extensively in the U.S production of other chemicals for plastics, resins, nylon, rubbers, lubricants, dyes, detergents, drugs, and pesticides. Present in crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke, benzene is also released into the air from burning coal, oil, gasoline stations, and vehicle exhaust. Short-term exposure may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and irritation, while long-term exposure leads to blood disorders, reproductive effects, and even leukemia. Benzene has been classified by EPA as a known human carcinogen, and regulations apply to various industry sectors with potentially high exposure risks.

Sources: 
Triethanolamine

Triethanolamine appears to cause occupational asthma and allergic contact dermatitis in machinists and photographers, as well as liver and kidney damage in animals with high-dose feeding. It's noted to be an irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, with potential to cause skin sensitization, though the rate of skin sensitization in humans is low. Triethanolamine has low acute toxicity, with median oral LD50 values of 4,190-11,260 mg/kg in rats and 5,300-8,000 mg/kg in guinea pigs, and a median dermal LD50 greater than 2,000 mg/kg in rabbits. Triethanolamine is not carcinogenic, developmental toxicant, or toxic to the reproductive system. However, chronic exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage.

Diethanolamine

Diethanolamine is a chemical found in various consumer products like shampoos, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Acute exposure in humans can result in irritation of the nose, throat, and skin. However, no detailed data is available on its chronic, reproductive, developmental or carcinogenic effects on humans. Studies on animals reveal that acute oral exposure can influence the liver, blood, kidney, and central nervous system, while dermal exposure has been connected with an increased incidence of liver and kidney tumors in mice. Production of first-degree burns, skin irritation, occupational asthma, kidney, and liver injury risk, and potential skin sensitization are some other adverse effects associated with diethanolamine.

Phenoxyethanol

2-Phenoxyethanol is a hazardous substance toxic by all routes of exposure, and is used widely in products like cosmetics, soaps, and inks, among others. The effects of exposure to this faintly aromatic, colorless, oily liquid can include eye irritation, headaches, tremors, and CNS depression. It's crucial to rinse exposed eyes with tepid water for at least 15 minutes and to wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water in case of contact. The substance requires preheating before ignition can occur, and if involved in a fire, gentle water spray can extinguish the fire by inducing frothing.

Methylisothiazolinone

Methylisothiazolinone can reportedly cause allergic contact dermatitis in workers who interact with products containing it. This substance is recognized as a contact allergen for consumers using cosmetics that include it. It can cause skin burns and sensitization, and inhaling it may lead to corrosive injuries in the upper respiratory tract and lungs. Ingesting this substance is harmful, and inhalation is toxic. This preservative is linked to the category of isothiazolinones.

Sources: 
Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol has been shown to cause narcosis in animals during acute studies, as cited by ACGIH. However, according to research by Zimmerman, it is not hepatotoxic in either experimental animal studies or in human exposures. It's known to be a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant, and if inhaled in high concentrations, it can cause CNS depression, as indicated by the ICSC.

Octinoxate

Octinoxate, commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products such as hair color products, sunscreen, lipstick, and skin creams, is an endocrine disruptor that mimics estrogen and can affect thyroid function. It has been detected in human urine, blood, and breast milk, indicating systemic exposure. Octinoxate's potential health concerns include its impact on cell proliferation in response to estrogen exposure, disruptions in thyroid hormones, alterations in reproductive systems, and adverse effects on the development of male and female fetuses, as well as their offspring.

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Authors

Camille May, Product Curator

Hey, I’m Camille—co-creator of Welpr and your go-to guide for all things clean living. After selling my last company in the health food space, I went non-toxic to heal an autoimmune condition. It did wonders for my health, but navigating which products to buy wasn’t easy. We built Welpr to make that journey feel a bit easier.  When I’m not working on Welpr, you’ll usually find me in the sauna, sipping a raw milk latte while doing a puzzle, or walking with my pit bull Romeo in my hometown of Austin, TX.

Olushola M. Awoyemi, Medical Reviewer

Olushola M. Awoyemi (aka Shola) is a board-certified toxicologist and a research scientist with a PhD in Environmental Toxicology. Shola's long-term ambition is to be recognized as a world-renowned expert in toxicology, risk assessment, and management, with experience spanning across institutions like the US EPA, US FDA, NIEHS, USDA, UNEP, WHO, and possibly within Fortune 100 companies in the Chemical, Healthcare, Pharmaceutical, Consumer goods, or IT sectors.

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