Guide: How to find the perfect sulfate-free shampoo

Why you should choose a sulphate-free shampoo

When you look at the back of your shampoo bottle, you can quickly be overwhelmed by the many different ingredients listed. The list of names of the ingredients is long, and it doesn't get any better that the names are usually not ones that you know or know much about. But it is important that you decide what is in your shampoo. Read here 5 reasons why you should avoid sulfates in your hair products and learn how to spot them!

Have you heard of sulfates before? Probably not. But it is most likely one of the many ingredients that you find on the back of your hair products.

It pays to familiarize yourself with the various ingredients; how they benefit and whether they damage your hair. Even if it can almost cause gray hair at first. There are several good reasons to scrap hair care products that contain sulfates.

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What is sulfate?

You find sulfates in shampoo, soap, facial cleanser and even in toothpaste. It is a foaming agent that causes the product to foam when you use it. Therefore, if you are standing with a shampoo or conditioner in your hair that foams a lot, this may be a sign that the product contains sulfates.

Sulfates' important task is: To clean your hair of oil and dirt.

You could say that is quite good. But there are some sulfates that are so strong that they strip the hair and scalp of their natural oils. Depending on your hair type, this can have negative consequences for your hair's beauty. For example, if you have dry hair, this could lead to your hair breaking, or to you wearing down the structure of the hair strands unnecessarily. It is possible to find sulfates which are mild and good for the hair, e.g. Sodium Coco Sulphate.

Sulfate is a synthetic substance that is produced in laboratories, often from fatty alcohols from vegetables. Here, vegetables are not necessarily a good thing. This can be seen, among other things, in the growing range of sulfate-free shampoos on the shelves, which indicates that these substances are not good for the hair.

Do you have doubts about whether there are sulfates in your shampoo or conditioner? Find the bottle and check the ingredient list. Look i.a. after:

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate
ATEA Lauryl Sulfate
TEA dodecylbenzene sulfonate
Sodium Alkylbenzene Sulfonate
Ammonium or Sodium Xylenesulfonate

You should avoid the above sulfates as they are among the strongest. The most common sulfates in shampoos and soaps are called SLS and SLES sulfates and are the most commonly used sulfate types. As a rule, you can find them quite high on the ingredient list, because there is usually a lot of sulfate in shampoo. And if they are there, the product is not sulfate-free.

Women washing her hair

Preserve your hair's natural oils

One of the most notable benefits of using a sulphate-free shampoo is their ability to preserve and protect the hair's natural oils. Traditional sulphate-containing shampoos are known to remove not only dirt and product residue, but also the natural oils that our scalp produces to protect and nourish hair. This can lead to excessive dryness and damaged hair.

Sulphate-free shampoos are formulated with mild and gentle detergents that are not as aggressive as sulphates. This means they effectively cleanse the hair without stripping away all the essential natural oils. As a result, your hair stays better protected from dryness and damage, while looking healthier and shinier.

Preserving the hair's natural oils helps to maintain the natural moisture balance of the hair and scalp. This is especially important for people with dry hair or a tendency to develop dandruff or itchiness. By switching to a sulphate-free shampoo, you may find that your hair becomes more hydrated and less prone to damage from external influences such as heat and climate.

Are sulfates dangerous?

Sulfates are not dangerous to you or your health. But they can be irritating to the hair and skin. Sulphates do their best to remove dirt, sebum and product accumulations etc.

However, some sulfates clean your hair more than is good. Thereby they remove the natural oils from the scalp and skin, which must be used to keep it healthy and strong. This can often lead to dry and exposed hair, but also greasy hair because the scalp overproduces oil.

If you can recognize this, then you should consider a shampoo without sulfates, as a milder and less drying alternative.

You may also be lucky enough to be using hair products today that contain sulfates, but where this has not had a consequence for your hair yet - and it is also not certain that it will have a negative impact on your hair . However, you will find that several manufacturers have removed sulfates from their products because it can damage your hair.

By choosing a sulfate-free shampoo the next time you shop, you can prevent possible itchy scalp and frizzy locks in the future.

Therefore, you must choose a silicone-free shampoo

Another ingredient that you should be aware of is silicone. Silicone is not dangerous for you or your health, but it can irritate both your skin and your hair. In shampoos and conditioners, silicone gives a temporary effect of healthy, smooth and shiny hair. But since silicone is chemically made to be water-repellent and durable, it clings to every single strand of hair. Therefore, it can be difficult to get it washed out of your hair. Over time, the silicone can build up on the hair strands, making your hair heavier and greasier.

Silicone can also have an effect on the hair's ability to allow moisture and conditioning ingredients to penetrate, which can lead to split ends and dry hair that breaks easily.

Silicone in hair products can also have the negative effect of dirt and dust settling in the hair and scalp and affecting the natural balance. This can result in greasy hair, itchy scalp. The greasy and "dirty" hair causes the hair follicles (hair follicles) to become irritated or suffocated. Ultimately, this can mean thinning hair.

Some therefore recommend a shampoo with sulphates in it, as sulphates are really good at removing all dirt and oil. Unfortunately, they also remove the good and healthy oils that protect the hair and scalp. We would therefore recommend that you find a shampoo without silicone and sulphate.

Silicone is a polymer that can be chemically produced in many types, so it can be a challenge to find out if your shampoo or conditioner contains silicone. When looking through the ingredient list, look out for words ending in "-cone" or "-oxane".

Below you can see a list of the most common types of silicone in shampoos and conditioners:

Dimethicone
Cyclomethicone
Amodimethicone
Pheryl Trimethicone
Cetearyl Methicone
Dimethiconol
Stearyl Dimethicone

If you follow the Curly Girl method, it is recommended to always use a sulfate- and silicone-free shampoo. You can read more about the Curly Girl method here.

5 reasons to switch to silicone- and sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners

If you struggle with your hair in one way or another, silicone- and sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners may be the way forward. Find out when it might be a good idea to choose hair products without sulphate and silicone.

1. You suffer from damaged hair that breaks easily

Do you often find that your hair tangles, knots and thus breaks? It is a clear sign that you have damaged hair. And that can be hugely frustrating.

It doesn't just make your hair look sad and dull. It also makes it more difficult to set with a hair elastic and brush through from bottom to top. Instead of a nice and shiny ponytail, you end up with a big lump of hair. And here a shampoo without SLS, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, can make a big difference.

It is especially fine hair that becomes heavy more quickly, and the strands tend to split more easily. And then it doesn't help to use an SLS sulfate shampoo. The sulfate ingredients weigh your hair down, and over time the product will build up on your scalp.

By choosing a silicone- and sulfate-free shampoo, you avoid sulfate build-up. Your hairstyle will no longer appear flat and depressed. But it will instead get new life with more fullness and shine. You can also look at a hair mask with proteins to rebuild your hair.

2. You have curls or frizzy hair

Does your hair frizz easily? Or does it always look electric and dull after a bath? And do you often use the straightener to get a nicer hairstyle? These hair challenges are all signs that you may have beautiful, hidden curls.

There are many women who have wavy or curly hair without even knowing it. Because if you use the wrong beauty products, your curls will never emerge. Instead, you will get frizzy or smoothed strands of hair - and that is not an inviting look.

SLS shampoo weighs down your hair and dries out your curls. The sulfates remove the natural oils in your scalp and make your hair completely unmanageable.

Fortunately, you can remedy the problem by switching to silicone- and sulfate-free shampoos, conditioners and other hair products. And in addition, it is a good idea to give your scalp plenty of moisture by using both moisturizing conditioners and hair treatments. If you do, you will soon discover that you have beautiful curls or a beautiful wavy hairstyle.

With us, you can buy hair care products for curly hair that are free of both silicone and sulfates. Our salt water spray and curling cream both live up to the Curly Girl method.

The Curly Girl method involves using hair care products and processes that give the curls shine and new life. A large part of the approach is avoidance; high heat, mineral oil, alcohol, silicone and sulfates in your hair products.

Instead, you should use conditioner when you wash your hair. Make sure to prioritize natural ingredients when selecting products to be part of your hair care routine to promote natural curls.

Shampoo and conditioner without silicone and sulphate

3. You love to dye your hair

Do you also love to face the summer with cheeky highlights? Or do you often dye your hair a different color? Then your hairstyle requires extra care and love. The colors can be harsh on both your scalp and your hair if you are not careful. And here the sulfates do not help.

When your hair is colored, it is extra sensitive. And if you use the wrong products, the color will not last long - and you may even risk discolouration.

By choosing a sulfate-free shampoo, your beautiful colour will last much longer. A sulphate-free shampoo is mild and nourishing, so you get clean hair without damaging your colour with too many ingredients.

4. Your hair feels dry and rough

Are your strands dull and frizzy when you run your hands through them? Or do you think your hair lacks shine and volume? Then you may be suffering from dry hair.

If your hairstyle is dry and rough, sulfates won't help - quite the opposite! Sulfates clean your hair. But they often do it so thoroughly that they also remove natural and necessary oils. And then it becomes difficult for your hair strands to retain moisture.

By switching to SLS- and silicone-free hair care, you retain the good oils while washing your hair. And by choosing the right varieties, you can also get extra moisture added to keep the hairstyle shiny.

5. Your scalp is dry and irritated

Do you also suffer from fatigue, white scales? Does your scalp itch constantly? And is it dry and irritated? It is frustrating if your scalp is not healthy and comfortable. But here again there is a way out. And that is dropping the SLS ingredients.

Your scalp is in some areas like a self-cleaning oven. It manages most of its care on its own - and only needs help once in a while. Therefore, it often has the opposite effect if you constantly, a few times a week, try to clean it with sulfates.

Instead of making the scalp clean and comfortable, the sulfates remove the oils that keep the scalp healthy. So if your head is sensitive, it will quickly lead to irritation and dryness. And in the worst case, it can also contribute to the development of differences.

With sulfate- and silicone-free hair care, you can clean the scalp without removing the natural oils. In this way, you prevent the scalp from itching and becoming red. At the same time, you reduce the risk of dandruff.

Who should use sulphate and silicone-free conditioners and shampoos?

Everyone can benefit from switching to a silicone- and sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Whether you have healthy and well-groomed hair or dry and irritated hair and scalp, a silicone- and sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner can effectively remove old product residues. Next, it also contributes a lot of moisture and care, which previously had difficulty penetrating the hair strands.

Is your scalp sore due to dandruff or eczema? Here, a sulfate- and silicone-free shampoo can also do wonders for your scalp, as it helps relieve the dryness of your scalp. You can read much more about dry scalp here.

Yuaia Haircares shampoo'er er uden sulfat og silikone

How do you choose good sulfate-free hair products?

If you search for "shampoo" on the web, you will be greeted by a multitude of different results. The beauty industry is huge - and all manufacturers claim to have the very best products. Therefore, it can be a bit of a jungle to find the best products for your particular needs.

Are you looking for a sulfate-free shampoo? Then you must first of all avoid these 4 ingredients. They are the worst sulfate types on the market when it comes to hair and scalp irritation:

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate
Ammonium Laureth Sulphate

The madness doesn't stop here. Unfortunately, there are several variants that you should avoid if you want to take extra care of your hair. To be sure that you are ordering a sulfate-free shampoo, choose a shampoo bottle that is marked as 100% sulfate-free.

Choose a sulfate-free shampoo that contains these washing actives (which are not sulfates):

Coco-Glucoside
Lauryl Glucoside
Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Ammonium Cocoyl Isethionate
Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate

Take care of your hair by considering and choosing products without parabens and perfumes. Look specifically for organic varieties with plant extracts and essential oils. For extra self-pampering, you can also put a delicious conditioner or hair treatment in the basket.

Can there be negative side effects from using a silicone and sulfate free shampoo?

No.

Some may find that it is difficult to get used to: That the shampoo does not foam as usual. It is not necessary to use more product, although you may feel like using more to make sure you have massaged your entire scalp into the shampoo.

We'd recommend our Deep Scalp Scalp Brush to get the most out of your shampoo when you're in the shower. You will get the feeling that the product is foaming and at the same time you get the product right into the hair follicles - and the skin on the scalp.

Our scalp brush doesn't just have one mission. It can also promote your hair growth just like our other hair products. Tensions, it can also ease. It can be tension in the scalp and neck, which can stem from work, stress, few hours of sleep, too much coffee and too little water during the day.

When you use the circle technique on your scalp, your tension will be released, which will relieve your headache.

How to use your new sulfate-free shampoo

Now you have read about how to find the right sulfate-free shampoo. But what is the next step when you have bought it and are standing with it in the bath? It doesn't matter how you wash your hair. On the contrary, it can have a big effect on the final result.

1. Wash your hair the right way

You probably haven't thought about how to wash your hair in the shower. Most people just do it automatically without thinking about technique or method. But it's a mistake! This can have negative consequences for the mane if you do it incorrectly.

The techniques below involve patience and time. But does it matter that it takes time if your hair becomes more manageable? More beautiful and healthier. We know that when everyday life gets in the way, your routines and hair routines can be downgraded. But try to focus on the result - and not the process, to motivate yourself to take good care of your hair.

So when you have now invested in a delicious sulfate-free shampoo, it must also be used correctly. Here's a step-by-step guide to the trip under the shower:

Wet the hair strands with warm water. The warm temperature opens the strands so that they are ready to receive the caring ingredients from the hair products. It also makes it easier to get all dirt and grime away.
Massage the hair shampoo well into your scalp for 1-2 minutes. Take a good dab and distribute it around your head, but not at the ends. When you rinse your head, the shampoo will automatically clean the rest of the hair strands and ends.
Use conditioner - especially if you have long hair. Sulfate-free conditioner gives your hair extra moisture and care. And it makes your life much easier when you have to save your wet hair. Curls are one of the hair types that liven up when the conditioner is sulfate-free, since curls need extra moisture.
Make sure to rinse all products completely. The worst thing you can do is waste the last rinse. If product residue still remains, your hair will quickly become heavy and greasy.

You should be aware that sulfate-free shampoo does not always foam as much as a normal shampoo. However, you will soon find out that it doesn't always need to foam up completely before your hair is clean.

If you follow these tips, you should get the most out of your sulfate-free hair care products. And both your hair and your scalp will thank you for the pampering!

Det er vigtigt at vaske sit hår på den rigtige måde med en shampoo uden sulfat

2. Don't wash your hair every day

Do you find that your hair seems greasy in the evening? And do your fingertips itch to take a shower if you don't do it every day? Then it is time to correct and change course.

All leading hair experts agree: That you should not wash your hairstyle too often. Although it sounds strange, the more often you wash your hair, the oilier it will become. This happens because you strip the natural oils from your scalp. And then your scalp panics, secreting even more oils to compensate.

Therefore, you should wash your hair every other day at most, and preferably only 1-3 times a week. Instead, try using a dry shampoo on the days you don't slip under the shower.

A dry shampoo soaks up excess oil so that hair looks less greasy. Therefore, you can skip washing your hair with a clear conscience. A dry shampoo is effective on days when washing your hair is not a priority.

In the same way that you style your hair with spray, salt water spray, curl spray, etc. In the same way, you can style your hair with a dry shampoo to make your hair look fresh and full.

If you've been washing your hair daily for the last several years, it can be difficult to change this hair routine. At first you will feel that your hair is very dirty and greasy. But once the scalp gets used to it, you will experience a marked improvement. So grit your teeth and change your hair washing routine. Your hair and scalp will thank you!

Products without sulfates

3. Dry your hair properly

Another important aspect of hair care is how you dry it after bathing. Towels and hair dryers can damage hair strands if you don't use them correctly.

Do you use towels to dry your hairstyle? So it is important that you do it carefully and gently. Throwing the towel around will damage your hair strands. They will thus break and become split faster. And then you suddenly have to spend money on an extra trip to the hairdresser.

Also, avoid putting your hair up in a turban with the towel. And if you do, do it briefly. The turban pulls on the hair follicles. It not only damages the hair strands, but can also risk leading to hair loss. You can also consider using a gentler material such as an old t-shirt or a microfiber towel. We have teddy bear soft microfibre towels which are perfect for the hair!

Are you a fan of air drying your hair? It is basically a good way to dry hair after a shower. You just need to be aware of a few things.

First of all, avoid brushing your hair before it is completely dry. Otherwise, it quickly becomes frizzy and boring.

Second, don't go outside in the cold. When the hair is wet, the cold can freeze it. And this can lead to hair strands breaking or breaking. So make sure it's completely dry before heading out into the winter weather.

Do you use a hair dryer? It's an efficient and quick way to dry hair - especially if you're in a hurry. But you have to watch out for the heat. If you dry your hair with a blow dryer, never use the hottest temperature. And also always make sure to keep the fan 5-10 cm away from the scalp. In this way, the hair becomes dry without heat damage.

Man skal huske at tørre håret korrekt for at optimale resultat.

Do I need to get used to using a sulfate-free shampoo?

When it comes to switching from a sulfate-containing shampoo to a sulfate-free shampoo, you should expect an adjustment period. Your locks may have become accustomed to sulfates and silicones, and they may react differently to the natural ingredients in a sulfate-free shampoo. It's important to give your hair a chance to adjust to the new routine.

In the beginning, you may notice that your hair feels slightly different. It can take time to get used to the cosmetic experience that comes with natural products instead of the synthetic alternatives. Some people find that their hair feels heavier or even a little greasy at first, while others may notice that their hair feels drier or more frizzy. This may be because a sulphate-free shampoo doesn't remove natural oils in the same way as sulphate-containing products.

It's important to be patient and give your hair time to get used to the new formula. It's recommended to use a sulfate-free shampoo for at least two weeks before drawing conclusions about its effectiveness. During this time, you may also want to experiment with different brands and formulas of sulphate-free shampoos to find the one that best suits your specific needs. Remember that each person's hair is unique and customisation can vary from person to person.

Tips when switching to sulphate-free shampoo

Changing your shampoo habit from sulphate-based to sulphate-free may take a little adjustment, but it's a step in the right direction for healthier hair and a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Here are some helpful tips for a smooth transition:
Read the labels: Carefully scrutinise the ingredients list on a sulfate-free shampoo to make sure it doesn't contain other harmful chemicals you want to avoid.

Adjust the amount: You may not need as much sulfate-free shampoo as you're used to with sulfate-containing shampoos. Start with a small amount and increase as needed.

Use a sulphate-free conditioner: Consider using a matching sulfate-free conditioner to give your hair extra care and moisture.
Avoid over-washing: Avoid washing your hair daily as this can strip it of its natural oils. Try washing it every other day or as needed.
Be patient: Your hair may take some time to get used to the new routine, so be patient and give it time to adjust.
Consult a professional: If you have specific hair issues or concerns, you may want to consult a hairdresser or hair care expert for advice.
Test different brands: Try different sulphate-free shampoo brands and variants to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Switching to a sulphate-free shampoo can be beneficial for both your hair and the environment, so follow these tips to make the transition as smooth as possible.

The best sulfate-free shampoo - Lotte's product recommendation for you

Hair care is very close to our hearts. That is why we have developed a really delicious sulfate-free shampoo, Grow and Glow Shampoo. The shampoo is free of harmful sulfates (SLS and SLES) - and is therefore a milder alternative to washing your hair. With its unique nurturing and growth-promoting properties, it ensures a balanced scalp and healthy hair growth.

In addition, it has fantastic restorative properties for: dry, damaged and fragile hair. With its content of Curcuma Longa and Amaranthus seeds extra, studies have shown: a reduction of hair loss of up to 89% after 150 days of use and an increase in the diameter of the hair shaft by 11.3%. In other words, you give your hair the necessary care that both nourishes and strengthens it, while leaving your hair shiny. If you want to read more about the ingredient Capilia Longa and its results, read here.

Sulfate-free shampoo is a popular trend in the hair care industry, and it has its benefits. But before switching to sulfate-free shampoo, it's important to do your research to see if it's right for your hair type. If you have questions or concerns about switching to sulfate-free shampoo, you can always ask us for advice.

Environmental benefits of a sulphate-free shampoo

Choosing a sulphate-free shampoo has environmental benefits. By switching to sulphate-free shampoo, you can:

Reduce hazardous chemicals: Avoid harmful chemicals that can pollute the aquatic environment.
Protect ecosystems: Minimise the impact on local ecosystems as a sulfate-free shampoo uses gentler ingredients.
Support sustainability: Some sulphate-free shampoo brands are committed to sustainable production methods and packaging.
Save water: Sulfate-free shampoos require less water during rinsing and contribute to water conservation.
Reduce plastic waste: Choose sulphate-free shampoos in reusable or recycled bottles to reduce plastic waste.

Myths about sulphate-free shampoos

Sulphates in shampoos have become the subject of many myths and misconceptions that can create confusion about their real effects on hair. It's important to clarify these myths and present a more nuanced understanding of sulphates and sulphate-free shampoos. Here are some of the most common myths and the real truth behind them:

Myth 1: Sulphates are necessary to get your hair clean.

Truth: While sulfates are powerful ingredients and effective at removing oil and dirt, there are several sulfate-free alternatives that can also provide a thorough cleanse. This means you don't have to rely on sulfates for clean hair.

Myth 2: Sulfates are the sole cause of dryness and damage to hair.

Truth: While sulphates can contribute to dryness and colour loss, there are other factors such as heat styling, frequent hair washing, and adverse weather conditions that can affect hair health. However, using a sulphate-free shampoo can help minimise dryness and damage.

Myth 3: A sulfate-free shampoo doesn't lather and doesn't cleanse well enough

Truth: Lathering is not the telltale sign of a proper wash. A sulfate-free shampoo is specially formulated to thoroughly cleanse hair without using sulfates or foaming agents. They still remove dirt, oil and product residue effectively and can leave your hair clean and fresh without drying it out.

Frequently asked questions about sulphate-free shampoos

What is sulphate and why should I avoid it in my shampoo?
Answer: Sulphates are an ingredient found in many shampoos and other hair products. They can remove dirt and oil from hair, but some sulphates can be too strong and damage the hair's natural oils. This can lead to dry and damaged hair. Therefore, you should consider avoiding sulphates in your hair products.

How can I recognise sulphates in my shampoo?
Answer: You can find sulphates in the ingredient list of your shampoo. Some common sulphates include Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate and other similar ingredients. These sulphates are often high on the ingredient list.

Are sulphates dangerous?
Answer: Sulphates are not dangerous to your health, but they can be irritating to the hair and scalp. Some sulphates can strip the natural oils from the scalp and skin, which can lead to dry or oily hair, depending on your hair type.

Who should use a sulphate-free shampoo?
A: Everyone can benefit from using a sulfate-free shampoo, especially if they have damaged hair, curly hair, coloured hair, dry hair or a sensitive scalp. A sulfate-free shampoo is milder and can prevent damage to the hair.

How do I choose good sulphate-free hair products?
Answer: When looking for sulphate-free hair products, avoid products with sulphates such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate and the like. Look for products that contain milder ingredients like Coco-Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside and other sulphate-free ingredients. It's also a good idea to choose products without parabens and fragrances for extra care for your hair.

Can there be negative side effects from using a sulphate-free shampoo?
Answer: There are usually no negative side effects from using a sulphate-free shampoo. Some people may find that a sulfate-free shampoo does not lather as much as regular shampoo, but this does not affect the effectiveness of the product.

How do I properly wash my hair with a sulfate-free shampoo?
Answer: Wash your hair with warm water to open the hair strands, massage a sulphate-free shampoo into the scalp for 1-2 minutes, avoid brushing your hair until it is completely dry and avoid washing your hair every day to preserve the natural oils.

Which sulphate-free shampoo is recommended?
Answer: A recommended sulphate-free shampoo is "Grow and Glow Shampoo," which contains conditioning ingredients and is gentle on the hair. It's important to find a sulphate-free shampoo that suits your specific needs and hair type.

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