What are sulfate-free shampoos?
Ever scanned the back of your shampoo bottle before? Well if so, you may have just gotten a headache trying to understand all of the scientific-terminology under the ingredient list.
However, in all that mumbo-jumbo of a list, there is one word you may be familiar with – sulfates.
According to Shani Francis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and hair loss specialist, “Sulfates are harsh chemicals in many personal health products that are used primarily as foam makers and cleaning agents.”
Here are some of the ways you may find them on appearing on your ingredient list; sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate or SLS.
Dr. Francis also explains that because sulfates help de-grease strands, dissolve oil, and give the formula that frothy, foamy quality, they unfortunately can scrub away the body’s natural oils. When this happens, it can lead to a dry scalp or, in extreme cases, cause damage to the cuticle (the hair’s outer layer).
The Benefits of sulfate-free shampoo
If you’re not all about healthier hair, then another reason to steer towards sulfate-free is simply if you want your hair to appear less frizzy or damaged. However, there are certain people in particular that would extremely benefit from sulfate-free shampoo. Those with color or keratin treatments, are the ones that should be extra careful with chemicals like these in hair products.
Interested in switching now? Thanks to health.com, here is a list of some the best sulfate-free shampoos recommended by dermatologists and hairstylists:
1. Shu Uemura Color Luste Brilliant Glaze Shampoo
To buy: $48
2. Nexxus Color Assure Replenishing Shampoo
To buy: $17
3. SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo
To buy: $9
4. Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Shampoo
To buy: $31
sephora.com
5. Briogeo Rosarco Repair Shampoo
To buy: $24;
6. Kevin Murphy Hydrate Me Wash
To buy: $49
7. DevaCurl No-Poo Decadence
To buy: $22