Salons may offer beauty that lasts, but some of their go-to products come with hidden risks – here’s what to watch out for and what to use instead.
Walking into a salon often feels like stepping into a space of transformation – glossy hair dyes, sleek manicures, and luxurious shampoos promise instant results. But behind the shine and color, many of these products carry hidden ingredients that can be harsh on health in the long run. From strong chemicals in dyes to controversial compounds in nail polishes and shampoos, what we use on our bodies deserves a closer look.
With growing awareness around product safety, many people are now questioning what goes into their salon treatments and whether safer alternatives exist. Luckily, the beauty market has evolved, and drugstore aisles today carry several effective options that are kinder on the skin, scalp, and overall health, without compromising on results.
1. Ammonia-Based Hair Dyes
Ammonia-based dyes are a salon staple for covering greys and achieving bold colour. Ammonia helps open up the hair cuticle so the dye penetrates deeply, which makes colour last longer. But there’s a downside: the strong chemical can dry out hair, irritate the scalp, and release fumes that cause eye and respiratory irritation. Prolonged exposure may also weaken the hair shaft, leading to breakage and dullness over time.
The good news is that ammonia-free options are now widely available and far gentler. Brands like Revlon Colorsilk and Garnier Olia offer ammonia-free dyes that still provide strong colour coverage while leaving hair softer and shinier. If you colour your hair regularly, switching to ammonia-free formulas can protect both your hair health and your scalp.
2. Gel Nail Polishes – The Shine With a Catch
Gel nails are loved because they last weeks without chipping, stay glossy, and even add strength to weak nails. But not all gels are harmless. A chemical called TPO, which helps the polish harden quickly under UV light, has recently been banned in the EU after studies linked it to possible fertility issues. While the evidence is still mostly animal-based, Europe chose a “better safe than sorry” approach. In Pakistan, since most gels are imported, it’s very likely many still contain TPO.
That doesn’t mean you need to ditch gels completely — just be careful. Look for TPO-free brands like OPI Intelli-Gel, Aprés Nail, or Aimeili, and try not to overdo back-to-back appointments. The UV lamps used to cure gels also carry risks, so applying sunscreen on your hands before a session and getting gels removed professionally is always a safer bet.
3. Sulphate Shampoos
Another overlooked product in salons (and homes) is the shampoo being used on your hair. Many shampoos, especially those used for deep cleansing or lathering, contain sulphates — chemicals that strip away oil and dirt. While sulphates give you that squeaky-clean feel, they can also be too harsh, leaving hair dry, frizzy, and irritated, especially for people with sensitive scalps or fine hair.
If, like me, you struggle with thin and oily hair, sulphates can feel like a double-edged sword: they remove grease but often leave the scalp over-dried, which can trigger it to produce even more oil. A good alternative is the XHC Argan Oil Shampoo. I’ve personally tried it, and it works well for fine, oily hair, cleansing without over-stripping. Plus, argan oil adds softness and shine without weighing hair down.
4. Powder Blushes and Compacts – The Talc Question
Many powder blushes and face powders contain talc, which has been under scrutiny for potential links to respiratory issues and even cancer risk if contaminated with asbestos during mining. While not every product with talc is harmful, it’s still a red flag ingredient for many people who prefer safer alternatives.
If you want to avoid talc, look for mineral-based blushes and powders that use ingredients like mica or rice powder instead. Brands such as e.l.f. Cosmetics, Physicians Formula, Milani, and BareMinerals offer talc-free or mineral alternatives that are gentler on the skin and safer for everyday use.
Credits: Dawn Images, Byrdie
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