Worried about Olaplex ingredient lilial? Here are some other natural ingredients that can repair broken bonds

by Haircare Expert Nicole Petty at Milk + Blush

“Earlier this week Butylphenyl Methylpropional – known as Lilial – was banned from cosmetic products in the EU and Northern Ireland following its’ classification as a Carcinogenic, Mutagenic or Reprotoxic (CMR) substance in 2020, with the UK expected to closely follow suit.

Lilial is a fragrance component currently found in many beauty products, including popular hair treatment, Olaplex. The common ingredient, which is said to pose a threat to human health, is thought to be particularly damaging for fertility and unborn children.

Olaplex no.3 is a widely used product by hairdressers and their customers, with its’ patented technology that promises to rebuild and repair broken bonds, all in a compact, at-home treatment.

While Olaplex has reassured customers its product is still safe to use and that they removed the ingredient globally in January this year, fans have been voicing their concerns on how using it and other beauty products containing lilial may have affected their fertility.

So, if you’re unsure which products are ‘safe’ but are still looking to repair any broken bonds, here are some natural ingredients you can apply to your hair to achieve similar results…

Olive oil

Not just for use in your kitchen, olive oil should be added to your at-home haircare routine due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which promote scalp and follicle health.

If you’re just focusing on the ends, measure out a tablespoon. Or, if you’re looking to treat your whole head, measure a quarter of a cup.

For best results, massage onto the targeted area and leave for 15 minutes before combing through and thoroughly rinsing out.

But make sure it’s extra virgin olive oil, as some shop-bought olive oils contain extra chemicals that could be damaging.

Avocado

A favourite among millennial and Gen-Z brunch-goers, avocado is good for you inside, outside and on top.

Rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, applying an avocado mask to wet hair will leave it feeling moisturised and nourished. Plus, studies have found that using avocado on your hair can seal cuticle cells, which prevent it from breaking.

Mix avocado with olive oil and honey, apply it to your hair and leave it on for 10 minutes. The oils will penetrate the cuticle to leave your hair silky smooth, stimulate hair growth and act as a barrier against harmful UV rays.

Coconut Oil

Similarly, coconut oil will keep your hair moisturised and help prevent any dreaded split ends from occurring due to its high levels of lauric acid.

Your hair is most vulnerable to damage when wet. Apply coconut oil all over your hair and scalp to reduce the amount of water absorbed and smooth down the hair cuticles for maximum protection. Alternatively, use the oil as a hair mask after washing to reduce friction and prevent breakages.