Sulfate free shampoos (and conditioners), also known as SLS free or SLES free shampoos (and conditioners), are among the hottest products in hairstyling today. Many sulfates, including SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), SLES (sodium laureth sulfate) and ALS (ammonium laureth sulfate) are powerful and inexpensive surfactants (sudsing agents), which makes them a popular and cost-effective ingredient choice for shampoos, especially cheaper brands.
However, sulfates like SLS are known irritants of skin and hair cells, and may have harmful effects on the environment in addition to people's health and well being. Aside from being harsh on the hair. They can be absorbed by the liver and can mimic the effect of the hormone estrogen in the body. Sulfates are also linked to unnatural hair loss, due to follicle damage. Due to increased demand from concerned consumers and beauty professionals, manufacturers are now offering more environmentally friendly, sulfate free products.
Sulfate free or SLS free shampoos can be difficult to find and are often expensive, due to the higher quality ingredients required. Also, sulfate free shampoos may leave your hair with a different "feel" than a traditional shampoo due to the alternative surfactant. Finding a sulfate free shampoo doesn't have to be a chore. Start by looking for organic or all-natural products. Organic or natural shampoos are much less likely than regular brands to contain sulfates. However, not all organic products are created equally, so read labels carefully and reject products containing SLS, SLES or ALS. If you are having trouble finding sulfate free products, talk to your hairstylist. Although many salon products contain sulfates, there are some lines, like Kevin Murphy and GK Hair, that do not.
Using sulfate free shampoo (and conditioner) may cost a little more, but it is money well spent when you consider the possible health and environmental benefits and of course the benefits such as longer lasting color and/or keratin!
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