Sulfate-free shampoos

Why do the scalp and hair become dirty over time?
A mix of sebum, dead skin cells, dust, sand, salt, and other debris builds up on the scalp and hair. Additionally, residues from cosmetic products (masks, conditioners, leave-ins, styling products) also accumulate.

This buildup can:
• clog pores
• weigh down and stick hair strands together
• disrupt the microenvironment at the roots
• lead to dermatological issues if not removed regularly using a shampoo with good cleansing ability

 That’s why even a sulfate-free shampoo contains surfactants (cleansing agents) — but these are milder forms of sulfates, designed to cleanse gently.

 What does “NO SULFATES” really mean?

This label usually indicates the absence of harsh anionic sulfates, such as:

• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

• Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)

• Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

• Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES)

Instead, sulfate-free shampoos typically use amphoteric and non-ionic surfactants — which are gentler alternatives.

 Examples of mild cleansing agents:

Amphoteric (+ –):

• Cocamidopropyl Betaine

• Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine

• Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate

• Disodium Lauroamphodiacetate

• Lauramidopropyl Hydroxysultaine

• Sodium Cocoamphoacetate

• Sodium Lauriminodipropionate

Non-ionic (0):

• Cocamide DEA

• Cocamide MEA

• Cocamidopropylamine Oxide

• Decyl Glucoside

• Lauramide DEA

• Lauryl Glucoside

• Lauryldimethylamine Oxide

• PEG-7 Cocoate