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Should You Switch To A Sulfate-Free Shampoo?
A great hairstyle is one of the most important details to achieving the perfect look. In fact, every fashion guru believes that women should wear their hair as a crown. But without proper maintenance, how you can achieve tousled waves or sleek straight ends? You can't, because what you put on your hair, makes all the difference.
Over the recent years, the haircare industry has notoriously been at war against sulfates and the harsh effects they cause. Sulfates are detergents and extremely effective at what they do. They cleanse the hair and scalp to be dirt-free and the main reason why your shampoo lathers up. If you have dry, rough hair as opposed to soft and smooth, you might want to consider a new alternative to sulfate shampoo. For example, using natural hair care products, such as Aloe Vera can help retain moisture and rejuvenate the hair.
Two Travel friendly brands we recommend that are sulfate free, non toxic and organic are
Sulfates Create A Risk For Hair Loss
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate can be harsh on hair and remove the natural oils. What’s more, if you have colored or already damaged hair, several reports are linked to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and hair loss. This is often a result of poor washing that leaves SLS in your hair follicles. For that reason, those with sensitive skin and eczema may not be able to tolerate them.
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Sulfates Can Strip Hair Color
If you have colored hair, sulfate shampoos may contribute to color fade. Both sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate are effective at deep cleansing. They are often included in clarifying shampoos for fine hair that is prone to oil buildup. Sulfate will remove the free lipids in the outer layers once the protective layer is gone. As a result, the more damage, the faster the color loss may be. One of the benefits of using sulfate-free shampoos for colored hair is extending the lifeline for your dye.
Sulfate-Free Shampoo Works for Every Hair Type
As sulfate can remove grease from hair effectively, especially to oily-prone hair types. However, those with the following issues should consider switching to a sulfate-free formula:
Color-treated Hair. Sulfates can damage hair color and result in rapid fading. Therefore, choose a shampoo and conditioner that is specifically designed for colored hair.
One product we know and recommend for colored treated hair is the Rahua 'Color Full' line.
Naturally Dry or Coarse Hair. Sulfates can rid of moisture instantly and reduce shine, causing your hair to look even drier.
For coarse and dry hair we recommend Susanne Kaufmann 'Intensive Treatment' line.
Sensitive Scalp. Sulfates can cause irritation, especially if you have eczema.
For sensitive we recommend Tabitha James Kraan 'Golden Citrus Clean' line.
While ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, and sodium laureth sulfate are the main ingredients to avoid when choosing a shampoo, using natural hair products are the safest bet to keeping your hair smooth and healthy. Remember, not all ingredients will do harm to your hair. In fact, chemicals such sulfosuccinates is another ingredient found in natural products that may work well for you.
by Jane Shannon
Jane is a freelance writer and editor. She has written for both digital and print across a wide variety of fields. Her main interest is exploring how people can improve their health and well being in their everyday life. And when she isn't writing, Jane can often be found with her nose in a good book, at the gym or just spending quality time with her family.
