Many hair products, including shampoos and conditions, contain various sulfates, like sodium lauryl sulfate or SLS. Some companies produce hair care products that are sulfate-free, including both mainstream and natural or organic manufacturers. Depending upon your hair, you may wish to avoid sulfates in their hair products, particularly if you opt for a hair care routine with no shampoo or less shampoo.
Function
Sulfates are detergents that produce lather. They are found in a variety of beauty products, including soaps, body washes, and shampoo. Sulfates break up grease on the hair, allowing it to be rinsed away. In hair products, like shampoo, sulfates remove natural oils, dirt and hair product residue. Sulfates can be rather harsh for sensitive skin, and may strip away color, according to LorealParisUSA.com.
Types
Common options include Sodium Laureth Sulfate , Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium Lareth Sulfate and Myreth Sulfate, often referred to by initials like SLES, SLS, and ALS, according to TheBeautyBrains.com. All of these ingredients serve the same basic function. Myreth sulfate is the gentlest of these options; however, there is no known risk to using any of these products.
Considerations
If you have sensitive or easily irritated skin, sulfates may compound the irritation, according to Hollywood dermatologists Dr. Jessica Wu. In this instance, choosing a sulfate free product may reduce your discomfort. You can find sulfate free options at your local drugstore or natural food store. Many sulfate-free hair products rely upon detergents derived from coconut or palm oils.
Misconceptions
Switching to a sulfate free shampoo will not magically change your hair or turn your hair from wavy to curly, according to TheBeautyBrains.com. Many people with curly hair have opted to avoid not only sulfates, but shampoo altogether. All shampoos do strip the hair of natural oils, leaving it drier than it was. This no-shampoo method adds moisture to curly hair and may help to keep it healthier, according to NaturallyCurly.com.
Potential
A gentle shampoo is best for most people, and should be followed by a conditioner to restore moisture, according to TheBeautyBrains.com. Overly harsh shampoos may dry your hair, particularly if it is naturally curly or dry. Sulfates have not been shown to cause cancer or other health conditions, but you may find your skin or hair do best without them.
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