10 Best Non-Toxic Shampoo Brands in Canada in 2025

In this guide, I’ll share the best non-toxic shampoo brands in Canada for EVERY hair type and concern. If you’ve ever felt frustrated with your hair despite using premium products, you’re not alone. It wasn’t until I started trying out the best non-toxic shampoo bars and liquids that I finally understood the difference between hair that looks healthy and hair that is healthy.

Many conventional shampoos are loaded with chemicals that may give short-term shine but can lead to long-term damage. Ingredients like sulfates (SLS, SLES) strip natural oils, often causing dryness and irritation. Parabens act as synthetic preservatives but have been linked to hormone disruption. Phthalates, found in artificial fragrances, can interfere with your endocrine system, while silicones create temporary smoothness but build up over time, leaving hair dull and lifeless.  

The good news? There are amazing shampoos without harmful chemicals that deliver real results—without the toxic ingredients. I’ve done the research to find the best options for every hair concern, whether you need a non-toxic shampoo for dandruff, the best organic shampoo for thinning hair, or a shampoo for oily hair.  

For more natural haircare and skincare picks, check out:

• 11 Best Non-Toxic Moisturizers in Canada to Hydrate Dry Skin
• Step-by-Step Winter Skincare Routine for Every Skin Type in 2025
• 10 Clean Makeup Brands at Sephora Canada That Actually Work
• The 11 Best Clean & Non Toxic Sunscreen Brands In Canada

This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

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Best Non-Toxic Shampoos in Canada, at a Glance

• Best non-toxic shampoo made in Canada: Carina Organics 
• Best shampoo for thinning hair: ATTITUDE Volume and Shine
• Best shampoo for dry hair: ATTITUDE
• Best shampoo for hair loss: Majestic Pure
• Best for thick, coarse, and damaged hair: Innersense 
• Best non-toxic shampoo bar: Jack59
• Best non-toxic shampoo for dandruff: Majestic Pure Apple Cider Vinegar
• Best natural shampoo for fine hair: Avalon Organics
• Best non- toxic shampoo for curly hair: Shea Moisture

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If you’ve ever tried switching to a natural shampoo and felt underwhelmed, you’re not alone. Many believe that natural shampoos don’t work as well, don’t lather enough, or leave hair feeling weird. But just like finding the perfect non-toxic deodorant, switching to a non-toxic shampoo and conditioner is all about finding the right formula for your hair type.

I used to be that girl—the one who believed that luxury shampoo brands were the key to gorgeous, healthy hair. I’d spend way too much on beautifully packaged bottles, convinced that if shampoo was expensive, it had to be amazing. I truly believed that salon-favourite formulas would give me the silky, voluminous, frizz-free hair of my dreams.

Price doesn’t always equal quality. After years of trial and error, I realized that many high-end shampoos were actually making my hair worse. Instead of nourishing my locks, they were loaded with sulfates that stripped my natural oils, silicones that created a fake shine but built up over time, and synthetic fragrances that irritated my scalp.

The most common assumption is that if a shampoo is free from sulfates, it won’t clean their hair properly. But here’s the truth: while sulfates create that foamy lather we’re used to, they can be incredibly harsh, stripping your scalp of natural oils. The best non-toxic shampoo brands use gentle, plant-based cleansers that effectively remove dirt and oil without wrecking your scalp’s balance.

Some people try one shampoo without harmful chemicals and assume that all-natural options are either too heavy or too drying. The reality? Every scalp is different, and you just need to find the right balance. Whether you need a non-toxic shampoo for dandruff, the best organic shampoo for thinning hair, or a shampoo for oily hair, there’s a formula that works for you.

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Common Toxic Shampoo Chemicals You Should Avoid

Parabens

Parabens (like methylparaben and propylparaben) are preservatives designed to prevent mold and bacteria growth in shampoos. While they do exactly what they propose, the problem is that parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting hormones and even being linked to breast cancer concerns. Studies have found traces of parabens in breast tissue, raising red flags. Yet, manufacturers continue to use them in most skincare and beauty formulas – from self-tanners to lip balms and hair conditioners.  

Certain parabens, such as benzylparaben, have been added to Health Canada’s Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist, indicating they are prohibited or restricted in cosmetic products. The safest choice is to opt for a certified non-toxic shampoo without harmful chemicals like parabens.

• Look for these names on labels: Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Isopropylparaben
• Safer alternatives: Potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, radish root ferment

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

SLS is the reason your shampoo gets all foamy and bubbly. It’s a surfactant, which means it helps lift dirt and oil from your hair. The downside? It’s also a harsh detergent that can strip your scalp of natural oils, leaving hair dry, frizzy, and irritated. If you have sensitive skin or colour-treated hair, SLS can be especially problematic, causing itchiness and fading hair dye faster. Luckily, many non-toxic shampoo brands in Canada use plant-based ingredients to get the same rich foam.

• Look for these names on labels: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS), Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES), Sodium Coco-Sulfate (SCS), TEA-Lauryl Sulfate, TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
• Safer alternatives: Coco glucoside, decyl glucoside, sodium cocoyl isethionate

Formaldehyde

You won’t usually see “formaldehyde” listed on an ingredient label, but it’s often released from preservatives like DMDM hydantoin or quaternium-15. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, meaning it has been linked to cancer risks with long-term exposure. It can also trigger allergic reactions and scalp irritation. If your shampoo claims to have a long shelf life, there’s a chance it contains a formaldehyde-releasing ingredient.  

• Look for these names on labels: DMDM Hydantoin, Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Quaternium-15, 2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol (Bronopol), Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate
• Safer alternatives: Leuconostoc (radish root ferment), honeysuckle extract

Phthalates

Phthalates are used in shampoos to make fragrances last longer and to help other ingredients dissolve better. However, these chemicals have been linked to hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and even developmental problems in children. Since they often hide under the vague term “fragrance” on labels, they can be tricky to spot. In my previous post, “best non-toxic ways to make your house smell good naturally,” I discussed the “fragrance loophole” in detail. To summarize, fragrance is considered a “trade secret” under the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act. This allows companies to refrain from sharing the exact formulations. 

So, toxic ingredients fly under our radar on a daily basis. Health Canada has categorized certain phthalates, like DEHP (Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate), as toxic under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act. While DEHP is primarily restricted to products intended for children, its use in cosmetics is also discouraged.

To find a non-toxic shampoo without harmful chemicals, keep an eye out for these names.

• Look for these names on labels: “Fragrance” or “Parfum” (often contains hidden phthalates), Diethyl Phthalate (DEP), Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), Dimethyl Phthalate (DMP)
• Safer alternatives: Essential oils, naturally derived fragrances

Synthetic Dyes

Artificial dyes (often labeled as FD&C or D&C followed by a number, like Red No. 40) make shampoos look more appealing, but they come with risks. Some synthetic dyes are derived from petroleum and may contain heavy metals that can be absorbed by the scalp. They’ve been linked to skin irritation and, in some cases, more serious health concerns. If your shampoo’s colour looks too good to be true, it probably is. My Canadian non-toxic shampoo list only includes natural products free of synthetic dyes. 

• Look for these names on labels: FD&C Red No. 40, D&C Yellow No. 10, FD&C Blue No. 1, CI 19140, CI 42090 (any color listed as “CI” followed by a number)
• Safer alternatives: Beet juice, turmeric, hibiscus extract

Cocamide DEA

Cocamide DEA (diethanolamine) is derived from coconut oil, so it sounds natural—but don’t be fooled. It’s chemically processed to create a foaming agent, and studies have shown it can react with other ingredients to form cancer-causing compounds. In fact, California has listed it as a potential carcinogen under Proposition 65.  

• Look for these names on labels: Cocamide DEA (Diethanolamine), Cocamide MEA (Monoethanolamine), Cocamide TEA (Triethanolamine), and Lauramide DEA.
• Safer alternatives: Decyl glucoside, sodium cocoyl glutamate

Triclosan

Triclosan was once used in antibacterial soaps and shampoos, but due to health concerns, the FDA banned it from hand soaps in 2016. However, it can still pop up in some shampoos as a preservative. Triclosan has been linked to hormone disruption, antibiotic resistance, and even environmental damage since it doesn’t break down easily in water.

• Look for these names on labels: Triclosan (TCS), Triclocarban (TCC)
• Safer alternatives: Tea tree oil, grapefruit seed extract

Propylene Glycol

Propylene glycol is used in shampoos to help retain moisture and improve texture. It’s also a common ingredient in antifreeze—yep, the stuff for your car. While small amounts are considered safe, they can cause scalp irritation and allergic reactions in some people, especially those with sensitive skin. If you notice redness or itching after washing your hair, this might be the culprit.  

• Look for these names on labels: Propylene Glycol, PEG (Polyethylene Glycol) Compounds, PPG (Polypropylene Glycol), Butylene Glycol
• Safer alternatives: Glycerin, aloe vera

So, for a 100 percent natural shampoo, stick with brands that use recognizable, plant-based ingredients. Want recommendations? Check out the best non-toxic shampoo brands in Canada without chemicals in my next section!

Are There Any Non-Toxic Shampoos Made in Canada?

The best non-toxic shampoos made in Canada are Attitude, Jack59, and Carina Organics. Both Carina Organics and Attitude offer multiple EWG-verified and hypoallergenic formulas for all hair types, including non-toxic shampoo for dandruff and shampoo for oily hair. Jack59 creates handmade, non-toxic shampoo bars with different scents. No matter your preferences, you’ll certainly find a formula to treat your strands.

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Best Non-Toxic Shampoo Brands in Canada (2025)

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These Were Canada’s Best Non-Toxic Shampoo Brands Without Chemicals

There you have it, my complete list of non-toxic shampoo brands in Canada for every hair type. While no shampoo is completely “chemical-free” in a scientific sense, the best natural and organic shampoo brands in 2025 prioritize natural, plant-based ingredients and avoid harmful synthetic additives. Whether you need a non-toxic shampoo bar, a non-toxic shampoo for dandruff, or an organic shampoo for hair loss, there are plenty of clean, effective options available. Remember that marketing buzzwords like “natural,” “organic,” and “clean” don’t always mean a product is safe. Always check the ingredient list to avoid these toxic chemicals and their sneaky aliases. If a formula contains Sulfates like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Phthalate, Parabens, or Triclosan, it’s NOT SAFE!