"Hey, I've used Avalon products for years, so I thought this would be okay. I've recently been reading ALL of the ingredients on labels, but somehow neglected to check this one out because I trusted them--didn't they say "organic" on the label? As it turned out, 'way down on the list of ingredients of this shampoo is SODIUM BENZOATE. Why in the world do shampoo makers have to put a preservative in their shampoo? Have you ever had a shampoo go rancid? I couldn't believe it. Sodium benzoate is listed as only "mildly carcinogenic" and the amount that can be put in products is generally regarded as safe (GRAS). But think of this: How many products that you eat or drink (soda) or put on your body have sodium benzoate in them? You'd be very surprised. So, it's not just the amount in the shampoo you use, it's the cumulative effect of tiny amounts, day after day, that build up in your system. Sodium benzoate becomes benzene in your body. What you put on your skin and hair is what is absorbed by your body. I wouldn't recommend this shampoo to anyone (sorry, Avalon) and I'll be reading labels even more closely from now on. Don't be hoodwinked by marketing! Educate yourself!"
Age:55-64
Gender:Female
Referral source:Self-referred
Duration of use:Less than 30 days