Understanding What Natural and Naturally Derived Mean

When it comes to haircare, many people are becoming more conscious of the ingredients they use and their impact on both their hair and the environment. As a result, there has been a growing trend towards natural and eco-friendly products, including haircare bars. But with so many options available, how do you know what's best for you and your hair? The answer lies in understanding the difference between natural and naturally derived ingredients.

Some products brand themselves as “free from chemicals”. From a scientific point of view, this is technically impossible as all substances have a chemical structure, even natural ingredients. What people are looking for when they seek out “chemical free” is they are looking for products which have natural or naturally derived ingredients and are free of substances such as pthalates, parabens, SLS, SLEs and silicones which can have detrimental effects for hair and skin.

At St James Supply Co we pride ourselves in seeking out ingredients which exclude these substances and are natural or naturally derived (with the exception of mica sericite which we use to colour our products, which is technically a mineral rather than a plant, but has no detrimental effects for hair or skin.)

You may hear people use the words natural or naturally derived interchangeably, however they are different and its useful to understand how.

Natural ingredients are those that are derived directly from plants, minerals, or other natural sources without any chemical processing or modification. Examples of natural ingredients in haircare bars include coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe vera. These ingredients are known for their nourishing and moisturizing properties, providing essential nutrients to keep your hair healthy and shiny.

On the other hand, naturally derived ingredients have undergone some form of processing, but are still derived from natural sources. For example, sodium cocoyl isethionate is a surfactant that is derived from coconut oil and is commonly used in haircare bars. It is known for its gentle cleansing properties, making it a suitable option for those with sensitive scalps.

In conclusion, both natural and naturally derived ingredients can provide great benefits for your hair. When choosing haircare bars, look for products that use a combination of natural and naturally derived ingredients to provide nourishment and cleansing for your hair. With this knowledge, you can make an informed decision and choose the right haircare bar for you and your hair's needs.