The Pro’s and Con’s of Sulfate-free Shampoo
For the past two decades a lot of scientific work has gone into identifying sulfate-free surfactants that can deliver the suds. Those efforts have paid dividends as there are a number of mild sulfate-free options that can produce a lather. However, even with as much improvement as there’s been, there’s still no question that lather-for-lather sulfate-based shampoos win the foaming contest hands down. Having said that, when applied properly, today’s better sulfate-free shampoos can actually clean just as well as sulfate-free shampoos. In fact consumers need to be careful, some “sulfate-free” shampoos use an ingredient called olefin sulfonate which cleans well but is just as harsh as sulfates on hair.[xi] Additionally, some sulfate-free products contain sodium chloride which is considered by some to be a “keratin-killer” if used in excess.[xii] Nevertheless, just as sulfate-based shampoos win the foam contest, sulfate-free shampoos win the battle for mildness and gentler impact on hair. This means that if you have chemically treated, dry or frizz-prone hair, sulfate-free shampoo is the recommended path for you.
Conclusion
There are strong arguments to be made for both sulfate-based and sulfate-free shampoos. Unless you have eczema or an allergy to sulfates, you can use either shampoo type. In addition, the quality of the ingredients and formulation play a very important role in overall shampoo performance. Desert Botanicals is developing top performing paraben-free and cruelty-free sulfate-free and sulfate-based shampoos so consumers have a choice on which they use. In sum, if you prefer a rich lather that facilitates an easier clean a sulfate-based shampoo is the way to go, while if you have color-treated or naturally frizz prone hair a sulfate-free shampoos is a better option.
