What are Sulphate Shampoos?

Almost all common brand shampoos you find in supermarkets and hypermarkets are sulphate based shampoos. You’ll see them listed on the bottle as Sodium Lauryl Sulphate and Lauryl Sulphate. You’ll even find it hard to find non-sulphate shampoos in pharmacies as most drug store brands don’t yet produce products without sulphates.

But really, when I thought about these products, I had one question: What are sulphates, anyway? And are they really as bad as they sound? To answer the first question: sulphates, essentially, are what make shampoos turn into a thick lather in the shower. This ingredient, which is standard for most shampoo (and household cleaning) products, has additionally come under attack for causing frizziness (especially in curly hair) and damaging colored hair. After dying your hair or receiving a chemical treatment (such as a Keratin or Brazilian blowout), salons will often recommend a sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner to maintain the style.

Yep…you got it. Shampoos containing sulphates are very drying ingredients that strip your hair of all oils and moisture and are found in most over-the-counter products. If you’re not using heavy products in your hair, there’s simply no need for these ingredients. Opt instead for organic non-sulphate shampoos and conditioners that are specifically formulated for dry hair.

How Effective Is Sulphate-Free Shampoo?

Sulphate-free shampoos clean just as effectively as do the sulphate shampoos. There is only one draw-back. It does not lather like the sulphate shampoos. This can be disturbing to those who associate cleanliness with lather. The two have nothing to do with each other.

Once you are used to the non-bubbling shampoos, you will soon notice the benefits of clean hair and naturally oiled skin and scalp. Your hair will lose its frizz and it will feel so much smoother because of it. Split ends will also be reduced or become a thing of the past altogether.

The biggest benefit is that you may actually gain some hair volume because of the health of your scalp and hair follicles will improve without the irritation of sulphate in your shampoo. So, if you have a sensitive scalp, chronically dry or brittle hair, color treatments or perms, these are some of the reasons why sulphate -free shampoo is better for your hair.