A sulfate-free shampoo is a type of shampoo that does not contain sulfates. Sulfates are foaming agents commonly used in traditional shampoos to create lather and clean hair. However, some consider that sulfates can be irritating to the scalp and hair, and can cause long-term damage. Sulfate-free shampoos are often used by those seeking to reduce the damage caused by chemicals, or by those with color-treated hair; there are also sulfate-free shampoos for curly or wavy hair.
The composition of a sulfate-free shampoo can vary according to brand and type. However, here are a few ingredients commonly used in sulfate-free shampoos:
Mild surfactants: Surfactants are ingredients that help clean hair by creating lather. Mild surfactants, such as glycerine or decylglucoside, are used in sulfate-free shampoos to replace sulfates and create lather while being less irritating to the scalp.
Plant oils and butters: Plant oils and butters such as argan, coconut or jojoba oil are often used in sulfate-free shampoos to moisturize and nourish hair.
Plant extracts: Plant extracts such as chamomile, lavender or mint are used to add soothing and moisturizing properties to a sulfate-free shampoo.
Plant proteins: Plant proteins such as keratin or ceramide are used to strengthen and protect hair.
Amino acids: Amino acids such as cystine and methionine are often used in sulfate-free shampoos to strengthen hair and improve texture.
It's important to note that the composition of sulfate-free shampoos can vary, and some products may contain synthetic ingredients, so it's important to read the ingredients list carefully before purchasing a product.
There are several reasons why some people choose to use sulfate-free shampoo:
There are several criteria to consider when choosing a sulfate-free shampoo:
Check the ingredients list: Make sure the shampoo doesn't contain sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or ammonium lauryl sulfate (ALS).
Adapt it to your hair type: if you have dry hair, opt for a sulfate-free moisturizing shampoo containing nourishing ingredients such as argan or coconut oil. If you have oily hair, choose a shampoo with astringent ingredients such as mint or sage.
Take composition into account: some sulfate-free shampoos may contain synthetic ingredients, so avoid them if you want a 100% natural product.
The role of shampoo, whether natural or not, is to cleanse. When we choose a natural product, we try to avoid chemical agents that are not beneficial to the scalp, the hair or the environment.
This is primarily a question of surfactants, the molecules that clean. There are several types, more or less stripping and polluting. Among the lists of ingredients, we avoid "sodium laureth sulfate", the most widely used because it's cheap and creates a generous lather. Instead, we prefer "coco bétaïne", or, even gentler, "coco-glucoside", "Caprylyl/capryl glucoside", derived from vegetable sugars and less foaming, which doesn't mean they're any less effective cleansers. The composition must also be rich in treating plant extracts, but free of silicones.
Without these film-forming synthetic oils, hair can appear crunchier when rinsed. Disappointment often comes from a poor choice of product. If you choose a formula suited to your scalp and hair type, natural shampoo won't make your hair rough, contrary to popular belief. On the contrary, it makes hair healthier and healthier with each use.
Highly concentrated, natural cosmetics should be used in small quantities, especially shampoos applied to the scalp. Excess can unbalance the skin's flora and the health of the scalp and hair. There are a few rules to follow, whatever the cleansing formula.
Emulsify on the scalp, gradually adding water. "Massage gently, moving the skin under your fingers to activate circulation, but above all, don't rub, otherwise you'll irritate the scalp and over-open the hair scales". Rinsing the lather with water is all that's needed for clean lengths. Rinsing also contributes to a good wash. It should be long enough to remove all traces of shampoo.
Soin-et-Nature offers a wide range of products to care for your hair, whatever its type or your specific needs. Here are the categories available:
The hair care products available on Soin-et-Nature enable you to adopt a complete and adapted routine, combining care, efficiency and respect for your scalp and hair.
