Sulphate-free shampoo are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Sulphates are a common ingredient in many personal care products, including shampoos, but they can have some negative effects on our hair and scalp. In this blog post, we’ll explore what sulphates are, why they are used in shampoos, and the benefits of using a sulphate-free shampoo.
What are Sulphates?
Sulphates, or sulfates, are a type of surfactant that are commonly used in personal care products, including shampoos, to create lather. The most common types of sulphates used in shampoos are sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES). Sulphates are effective at removing dirt and oil from the hair and scalp, which is why they are so commonly used in shampoos and other cleansing products.Why are Sulphates Used in Shampoos?
There are several reasons why sulphates are used in shampoos. First and foremost, they are very effective at removing dirt and oil from the hair and scalp. Sulphates create a lather that helps to loosen and lift dirt and oil, making it easier to wash away. This makes sulphate-containing shampoos very effective at cleaning the hair. Another reason why sulphates are used in shampoos is that they are inexpensive and widely available. Sulphates are a byproduct of petroleum, which means that they can be produced relatively cheaply. This makes them a cost-effective option for manufacturers, which is why they are so commonly used in personal care products. However, despite their effectiveness and affordability, sulphates do have some downsides.The Downsides of Sulphates
While sulphates are effective at cleaning the hair, they can also have some negative effects. One of the most common complaints about sulphate-containing shampoos is that they can be harsh and drying on the hair and scalp. Sulphates can strip away the natural oils that keep our hair and scalp moisturized, which can lead to dryness, itching, and flakiness. Sulphates can also cause damage to the hair itself. The lather created by sulphates can be too harsh for some hair types, particularly those that are already fragile or damaged. This can lead to breakage, split ends, and other forms of damage. Finally, sulphates can also be irritating to the skin. Some people may experience redness, itching, or other forms of irritation after using a sulphate-containing shampoo.Benefits of Sulphate-free Shampoos
Given the downsides of sulphates, it’s no surprise that many people are turning to sulphate-free shampoos. There are several benefits to using a sulphate-free shampoo:- They are gentler on the hair and scalp. Sulphate-free shampoos are formulated with gentle surfactants that are less likely to strip away the natural oils that keep our hair and scalp moisturized. This can lead to softer, shinier, and healthier-looking hair.
- They are less likely to cause damage to the hair. Without the harsh lather created by sulphates, sulphate-free shampoos are less likely to cause damage to the hair. This can help to reduce breakage, split ends, and other forms of damage.
- They are less likely to cause skin irritation. Because they are formulated with gentle surfactants, sulphate-free shampoos are less likely to cause skin irritation. This makes them a good choice for people with sensitive skin.
- They are better for the environment. Sulphates are a byproduct of petroleum, which means that their production can have negative environmental impacts.
