What is a Sulfate-free shampoo?

Sulfates are chemical surfactants that are commonly added to shampoo as they are effective cleaning agents. It blends with water to generate a rich and bubbly lather that washes away dirt and oil from hairs. However, they are also aggressive detergents and their regular use ends up depleting the natural moisturizing oils that are essential for healthy hair. This might result in dry and brittle hair and can leave sensitive scalps irritated. The most commonly used sulfates in the haircare industry include Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), parabens, phthalates, and triethanolamine (TEA).

On the other hand, most sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners comprise ingredients derived primarily from plants and natural ingredients. They may not produce as much foam as their chemical counterparts do, but are equally effective with the hair and scalp, and are an excellent substitute for those with sensitive skin.

Benefits of Sulfate-free shampoo

Best Sulphate-free shampoos offer several benefits – both in the short and long run.

1. Soothes the scalp: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on the scalp and do not over-strip the hair while cleansing.
2. Natural moisturizer: Sulfate-free shampoos help retain natural moisture in the hair and do not tamper with the natural oils in the scalp. They work with low-porosity hairs and aid them to gain moisture.
3. Retains natural hair texture and colour: Sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners retain the natural texture and colour of the hair. It has also been found to arrest premature greying of the hair. Moreover, they are considered a better option for those who love their curls.
4. Easy on the eyes: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentle on the eyes and do not result in severe burning of the eyes while using.
5. Environment friendly: As most of the ingredients used to prepare sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners are derived from plants, they are sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Advantages of Natural Sulfate-free Shampoos

Just like natural hair care products, Ayurvedic cleaning ingredients make the best of sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners.  Natural herbs used extensively in Ayurveda such as Amla, Neem, Aloe Vera, Shikakai, Bringhraj, and hibiscus among others have been traditionally found very effective in treating and managing a whole range of hair and scalp-related challenges. Many experts feel that sulfate-free herbal shampoos are a better alternative to their chemical counterparts when it comes to daily use and long-term results. 

Best Sulfate-free Shampoos and Conditioners 

For all those who are interested to switch to healthy and happy hair, here is a compilation of the five best sulfate-free shampoos for consideration:

1. Ayurvedic Shampoo | Anti-Dandruff

This Ayurveda Shampoo is a top-class solution for dry scalp and hair breakage problems. Loaded with the natural benefits, it promises to hydrate, cleanse and nourish the hair at the same time. Considered to be a highly effective sulfate-free shampoo for hair fall, this product is 100% vegetarian, SLS/SLES free, and is certified ‘organic’ by COSMOS, France. This ayurvedic formulation is perfectly balanced, is suitable for all hair types, and is free from paraben, silicone, lead, phthalates, mineral oil, petrolatum, and any kind of synthetic fragrance. 

 2. Amrutam Shampoo Combo | Kuntal Care Herbal Shampoo & Bhringraj Hair Therapy

This Shampoo Combo comprising Kuntal Care Herbal Shampoo and Bhringraj Hair Therapy promises big benefits that include reducing hair fall, controlling dandruff, reversing scanty hair growth, preventing pre-mature greying, and enabling a healthy oil balance on the scalp. The Kuntal Care Shampoo offers the best Ayurveda ingredients for well-nourished hair which includes Reetha, Shikakai, Amla, Bhringhraj, and Ghrit Kumari. Together they prevent hair loss, protect against fungal infections, control dandruff, and prevents premature greying. Bhringraj Hair Therapy is a 2-in-1 hair shampoo and conditioner that offers the magical benefits of ingredients such as Bhringraj, Triphala/ Triphla, Reetha, and Shikakai ensuring healthy, natural and dynamic hair.

 3.Anti Frizz Hair Shampoo | Dry & Damaged Hair

The Anti Frizz Hair Shampoo offers a combination of Manketti seeds and Ylang Ylang that penetrates deep into the scalp and moisturizes it ensuring healthy, nourished, and refreshing hair for a long time. Buhle Manketti oil provides a protective coat on the hair protecting it against xerotic conditions and enabling healthy hair growth. Ylang Ylang essential oil nourishes the scalp by enhancing sebum production leading to a healthy texture of the hair and controlling hair breakage. In addition, sweet almond oil provides natural nourishment through vitamin E, vitamin A, essential fatty acids, and proteins for deep cleaning of the pores on the scalp. And finally, Citropol F ensures a controlled release of fragrance spread over a longer time for a sustained refreshing scent. 

 4. Ayurvedic Shampoo | Coconut and Hibiscus

Coconut & Hibiscus Ayurvedic Shampoo promises to repair, restore and rejuvenate hair using 100% natural ayurvedic ingredients. Designed for everyday use, this shampoo promotes hair growth, controls dandruff, stops premature greying, and gives the hair a sensual shimmer. The product comprises Bhringhraj which is a rich source of Vitamin E, Vitamin D, Iron, and magnesium, a combination of which arrests hair fall and aids healthy hair growth. Vitamin C from Hibiscus petals prevents dryness of the hair, and the goodness of coconut acts as a natural hair conditioner ensuring well-nourished hair.

 5. Aloe, Neem & Tea Tree Shampoo | Hairfall Control & Strengthens Roots 

Aloe, Neem & Tea Tree Shampoo promises to be a highly effective sulfate-free herbal shampoo for well-nourished hair. The magical combination of Tea Tree, Aloe Vera, and Neem helps to get rid of hair loss, hair thinning, hair dryness, and itchiness effectively. The goodness of amla, basil, fenugreek, and fennel seeds makes it an amazingly effective antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal solution – the perfect natural hair care product for anyone and everyone.