What To Look For
SLS refers to sodium lauryl sulfate, a cleansing agent that is used in many shampoos because it helps water mix with oil and dirt so it can be rinsed away. Sodium lauryl sulfate-free shampoos do not use this cleansing agent, which has been shown to fade hair color. Many companies advertise on the front of the bottle that the product is sulfate-free; however, you can easily find this information by reading the ingredient label and looking for sodium lauryl or sodium laureth sulfates. Many natural and organic specialty brands are SLS-free.
Common Pitfalls
Since SLS is a foaming and cleansing agent, removing this from shampoos can reduce the lathering capability and have the reputation of not removing oil from the hair and scalp. The director of technical development for professional hair care brand Matrix states that SLS-free shampoos do leave behind natural emollients, which makes some feel as though the hair isn't as clean.
Where To Buy
SLS-free shampoos can be purchased at drugstores, salons and specialty health stores. Most SLS-free shampoos are professional salon brands, however, and should be purchased from an authorized salon location. Natural and organic shampoos are usually free of sulfates, but it's best to double-check the ingredient label since SLS is derived naturally and therefore is considered natural.
Cost
SLS-free shampoos can be more expensive because pricier alternative cleansing agents are used in lieu of inexpensive sulfates. There are limited drugstore options which typically retail under $10, as of August 2010. Professional salon SLS-free shampoos can range from $10 to $30 and up. Natural and organic SLS-free shampoos typically cost $10 to $20.
Comparison Shopping
When shopping for a SLS-free shampoo, look for brands that offer different formulas, such as those for volumizing, or dry or damaged hair, so you can be sure to use a shampoo specific to your hair type. Pureology, for example is a professional salon brand that is SLS-free and has six different systems to help volumize, hydrate, smooth, repair, renew and control dandruff. Pureology shampoo retails for approximately $25.
L'Oreal EverPure is a drugstore line of SLS-free shampoo that also has formulas for several different hair concerns, such as volumizing, smoothing and moisturizing. EverPure retails for approximately $6.99.
Avalon Organics is a line of natural and organic personal care products, and all of the brand's shampoos are SLS-free. Avalon has a large variety of shampoo formulas that smooth, nourish, volumize, clarify, moisturize, strengthen, impart shine and treat dandruff. Avalon Organics shampoos retail for approximately $10.
Insider Tips
L'Oreal is the parent company to Pureology, so EverPure shampoos have a very similar formula to Pureology shampoos and are much less expensive.
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