Sulfate free shampoo will get you feeling clean, but not stripped of moisture. The results? A healthier scalp with balanced oil production. Dry scalp types will find that their scalp is more moisturized (not oily), and oilier scalp types will find that their excessive oil production will be reduced over time.
You might want to avoid sulfate shampoos if you have sensitive skin or a skin condition such as rosacea. Sulfates can be harsh on the scalp and may cause irritation and itchiness. Sulfate-free shampoos are usually much milder.
Experts suggest that sulfate-free shampoo is the best option for your hair, because it gently cleans your tresses. Even if you don't believe in this trend, you almost always end up buying sulfate-free products, because they are everywhere today.
C14-C16 sulfonate with a higher carbon chain offers superior cleansing and oil removal compared to C12-lauryl sulfate (SLS).
For the most part, sulfates in shampoos are safe. They help the shampoo strip dirt and oil from the hair. For people with sensitive hair and skin, shampoos containing sulfates may cause some mild side effects, such as dry, brittle hair, and dryness or redness of the scalp.
Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate is a great surfactant that helps remove dirt, pollutants and buildup from the hair and scalp. Mostly present in hair care products, it can also be used in skin care and cosmetics.
Is SLS-Free the Same as Sulfate-Free? No. SLS is one of the most common sulfate-based surfactants, but it is not the only one. Consumers should always check the ingredients list or look for products marked as “sulfate-free”, not just “SLS-free”, and manufacturers must ensure their formulations are correctly labeled.
One of the main advantages of using quality sulfate-free shampoos is that they are much gentler on sensitive scalps when used properly. They won't exacerbate the dryness or itching you may already be experiencing. Sulfate-free shampoos are less likely to dry out your hair than sulfate shampoos.
Sulfate-free shampoos help retain the natural moisture of your hair, so that it does not lose its natural shine and softness. Retains hair color: If you have colored hair, sulfate-free shampoos are a blessing. Unlike their counterparts, these are gentle and won't strip your hair of its color too fast.
Schweiger says most people will be fine with a sulfate shampoo, and for some it can be the most efficient way to clean the hair and scalp. For instance, if your hair is on the oilier side or if you have dandruff, a sulfate shampoo will help absorb and get rid of the oils in your scalp.
Can You Use Sulfate-free Shampoo Daily To Wash Hair? You need not wash your hair every day unless it is very oily. However, unlike sulfate shampoos, which make your hair brittle, a sulfate-free shampoo can be used daily, along with a conditioner to moisturize your hair.
Some forms of sulfates — like sodium lauryl sulfate — can cause significant scalp irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin. If sulfates cause enough irritation, they may contribute to hair damage and hair thinning in some people.
Castile Soap: Castile soap is a gentle and natural soap that is made from vegetable oils such as olive oil and coconut oil. It is often used in organic shampoos and body washes as a replacement for SLS and sulphates.
Simply put, sulfates are the ingredients that make shampoos turn into a thick lather. However, they have come under fire for causing hair damage, and SLS and SLES certainly don't add nutrients to your hair. So, in answer to the question “what is sulfate-free?”, sulfate-free shampoo is a shampoo without sulfates.
L'Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Moisture Shampoo
L'Oréal was among the first drugstore brands to launch a sulfate-free haircare line. This shampoo promises to clarify your scalp with natural surfactants and restore moisture, all while offering an impressive lather sans sulfates.
Who should avoid SLS? People with a history of sensitive skin, hyperirritable skin and patients suffering from skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema), rosacea and psoriasis are best to avoid products containing SLS.
Good Sulfates
Examples include behentrimonium methosulfate. This type of sulfate does not strip hair and is good for conditioning and detangling.