Sulfates are detergents. You can find them in your dish soap, your laundry detergents, even your toothpaste! The most common sulfate is SLS, or sodium lauryl sulfate, which is an ingredient in most traditional shampoos. It acts as a foaming agent, while also reducing the surface tension of the water to loosen and remove oil. Basically, they are an overly aggressive cleaner that is associated with that luxurious foam that you’re used to in your shampoos.
Sulfates are deep cleaners, but they’re a little too good at their job. If these cleaners are good for cleaning your floors and your dishes, they’re a little too strong to be used on your head! While they are not carcinogenic like some rumors suggest, they may be harmful to your hair. Sulfates strip your hair of its natural oils, which leads to dry and brittle strands. By eliminating the oils on your scalp, they can also cause dryness, irritation, and inflammation!
Opt for sulfate free shampoos! These shampoos have gentler cleansers, which means your hair will get super clean while still retaining its natural oils. Plus, if your hair is color treated, using sulfate-free shampoo can help your color last longer! With sulfate free shampoo, your hair gets the same clean feeling that you love, without the damage from harsh detergents.
