They say that your hair is your crowning glory, and it is one that you can never take off - all the more reason for you to take care of it. What better way to take care of it than with sulfate-free shampoos as they are milder won't irritate your scalp. Our team at mybest has compiled a list of our favorite products in our Top 10 list, some you may even buy from drugstores!
Everyone has different needs, and if your scalp is pickier than others or you had it colored or permed, you might want to consider trying sulfate-free shampoos. We have prepared a buying guide to help you choose the best sulfate-free shampoos with some comments and tips from Dr. Barbara Marcelo, a board-certified dermatologist. Keep on reading to learn more!
Dr. Barbara Ellen T. Marcelo is a board-certified dermatologist who is passionate about helping parents nurture their children’s skin. Her advocacies include teaching about sun protection, treating patients with eczema, and promoting skin and body positivity. You can follow her on her Instagram page: @mybabyderm to learn more about caring for children’s skin.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
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Before we get right into the nitty-gritty on how to choose the best sulfate-free shampoo, let's first get to know what sulfates are, weigh the pros and cons, and also take a look at the benefits of sulfate-free shampoos.
To put it simply, sulfate is a type of surfactant. This means it helps the product to produce a lather. This is what gives your soaps and detergents that bubbling action. It is successful in cutting through oil and dirt and lifting it from your body. This is why you have that "squeaky clean" feeling after taking a shower. The downside is it can cause loss of moisture and strip your scalp of its natural oils.
If you have sensitive skin or are suffering from skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, or other skin problems, you might want to consider sulfate-free alternatives. This is because sulfates can cause your skin conditions to flare up or even cause an allergic reaction. This may cause you to experience redness, itchiness, and irritation in your scalp.
Sulfates are common components of shampoos and cleansers that are anionic surfactants. Surfactants are molecules that attract both oil and water. Sulfate-containing shampoos foam well, and they can also clean efficiently too. However, in some people with sensitive or drier skin and hair, they can be very drying, washing away your skin and hair's natural protective oils.
As mentioned earlier, although sulfates in shampoos can help clean the hair thoroughly, they can be strip off natural oils and make the skin and hair dry, and can be irritating, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Meanwhile, sulfate-free shampoos can be very gentle but at the same time effective in cleaning too. Not only those with sensitive and dry scalp will benefit from this, but also those with colored hair and curly-haired folks too. Sulfate-free shampoos are highly moisturizing, making your hair healthy and vibrant!
A sulfate-free shampoo can clean your hair the same way regular shampoos do, minus the irritation. It just has a milder formula. Sulfate-free shampoos actually contain natural ingredients to keep your hair healthy!
You must first decide on the type of your shampoo. You might like to take your time using a shampoo bar, or prefer the convenience of the liquid type.
It is an environmentally-friendly option as some brands do not make use of plastic packaging. It is mostly made of natural ingredients, which is nourishing for your hair as it is free of harmful chemicals.
The downside is, it can take some effort to produce a lather, which can be time consuming. It can also be difficult to rub the bar onto your hair. It is still a solid option if you want a product with all-natural ingredients.
The attraction of shampoo bars is mainly because of their being eco-friendly, convenient for travel, and cost-effective. Most bars are also made of mainly natural ingredients and exclude sulfates. However, shampoo bars may leave a waxy consistency in your hair strands which can build up over time. Always remember to rinse thoroughly when using bar shampoo.
On the other hand, liquid shampoos are more commonplace and easy to use. You only need to dispense the appropriate amount of product onto your hand. One caveat though is that it can contain preservatives, but it has a longer shelf life compared to its bar counterpart.
The good news is, some brands can produce shampoos that lather well, so it won't be difficult to use. This is ideal if you want to ease your transition into sulfate-free shampoos.
The choice between a shampoo bar or a liquid shampoo depends on what suits your hair and lifestyle best. Liquid shampoos are faster and more convenient to use. There is less lathering needed, and it's easier to rinse off. Liquid shampoos are also more readily available, with a lot of product options depending on your hair concerns.
Generally speaking, sulfates aren't that bad. However, it can be too potent an ingredient for some hair and skin types. Those with dry and damaged hair can benefit from sulfate-free shampoos as it won't cause further damage to their hair or irritate their scalp.
Those with dry and damaged hair would benefit from using a sulfate-free shampoo, as it does not aggravate your hair's dryness. There is such a thing as being too clean sometimes, and sulfates tend to do that. It strips your hair of moisture and leaves it dry and unhealthy.
It can also cause hair to frizz too because of increased friction due to lack of moisture. Look for shampoos that contain natural moisturizing ingredients such as coconut, avocado, grapeseed, and argan oil. These oils are known emollients, which moisturize and softens skin. It also works to seal in moisture to prevent it from escaping.
Sulfate-containing shampoos can wash away the hair’s natural protective oils, which also nourish the scalp. Hair can then become brittle and get easily broken or damaged during styling, especially when the heat is used. Using shampoos with plant oils can help coat and soften the hair strand, decreasing friction between hairs and helping frizzy and flyaway hair look smoother.
This is because colouring or treating your hair strips it of its natural pigment to make room for new color. In doing so, it dries out your hair in the process. This is the reason why your hair tends to feel straw-like when you've had it bleached.
Look for protein-based shampoos that contain wheat or soy extracts as well as amino acids. This will help restore protein to your hair and help preserve color, so you can avoid having your locks looking brassy.
Excessive use of sulfate-containing shampoos can strip your hair of its natural proteins, particularly keratin. This can weaken the hair strand, leading to hair breakage, split ends, and frizzy-looking hair. Using protein-containing shampoos can help smoothen and strengthen the hair cuticle (outermost layer of the hair shaft), helping protect chemically-treated hair.
In buying shampoos, you should take note of the ingredients list as some of it could contain hidden sulfates. Some of its common names are; Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Ammonium Laureate Sulfate (ALS), and Sodium Cocyl Taurate, among others.
Also look out for possible preservatives such as parabens and phthalates as well as fragrances, as these could be potential irritants.
Look at the label of your shampoo. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a strong anionic surfactant while Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) is its milder version. Other sulfates can be identified on the label of your shampoo as sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, ammonium lauryl sulfate. Sulfates containing fragrances and other ingredients may cause irritation to your skin but sulfate-free formulations can also cause this as well.
From ₱1,690
Do you suffer from damaged hair? Do you need something that can tame your hair’s frizz? If you said yes to these questions, then try Olaplex’s Bond Maintenance Shampoo. It is a highly nourishing and reparative shampoo that can strengthen all types of hair. That includes damaged and frizzy hair.
Olaplex has its own patented bond builder, which can repair extreme damage to hair by mending broken hair bonds. This way, you would end up with soft, shiny, and more resilient hair. Their product is also safe to use if you have colored hair, making it a versatile shampoo.
From ₱225
If dull, dry hair is your concern, whether it's from frequent styling or chemically treating your hair, you can now achieve soft and shiny hair with this locally made shampoo bar! With ingredients like Japanese Tsubaki oil, Aloe vera, chamomile, and jojoba, your hair will surely thank you right after the first wash.
It even has Philippine gugo in the formulation! If you don't know what gugo is, you can read all about it in this article! It is guaranteed to protect your hair color and improve hair texture - and you can use it up to 60 washes! Reviewers love the scent of this shampoo bar - they say it smells fruity with herbal undertones, and the smell stays on your hair for a long time!
From ₱350
Do you have a thing for bleaching and dyeing your hair? Then you’re all too aware of how it can turn brassy sometimes. Although they are known for their cult-favorite sea salt spray, this local brand can serve up sulfate-free shampoos just as well. Touch up your hair’s locks with Beach Born’s purple shampoo to cancel out orange hues.
It is formulated with tea tree oil, which can balance out your scalp’s pH levels and stimulate hair growth. You can calm inflamed or irritated scalp thanks to the inclusion of lavender. It also contains pro-vitamin B5, which deeply moisturizes your hair and locks it in, so you can prevent your colored hair from drying out.
If you're still unsure of this shampoo, it's on professional hairstylist Jaywee's item list, so you know that it is approved by hairstylists!
From ₱1,530
Have you had a Brazilian blowout or keratin treatment? It is important to use sulfate-free shampoos afterward in order to prolong your treatment’s effects. Sulfates could prematurely strip your hair of the treatment, rendering it useless. Not to mention wasting your money in the process.
This shampoo is packed with good stuff. It is infused with ginseng to promote hair growth. Do you have thin hair? You can help thicken it out thanks to its added biotin. Vitamin B5 reinforces each strand of hair, nurturing it from root to tip. Maltodextrin, which is a natural sugar starch, enhances your hair’s volume and fullness. Grab yours now!
From ₱1,090
If you prefer your shampoo to have a satisfying foamy lather, try this one from Davines. Although it foams well, its formulation is gentle and nourishing - designed to protect colored hair, leaving it shiny and healthy. Its active ingredients come from rare fruit and vegetable strains grown in Italy, and it has a fresh citrus blossom scent.
This shampoo is rich in polyphenols that protect hair color, as well as quercetin, an amino acid that protects the hair structure - this is all thanks to the extracts from the Capers from Salina, Italy. It also has mild surfactants, so it will cleanse your hair without weighing it down.
From ₱169.75
When we talk about natural products, Human Nature is one of the best brands that is a mainstay on many lists! This shampoo is formulated with a fusion of hydrolyzed wheat protein and rosemary oil, which promotes healthy hair growth, makes hair appear fuller, and makes it less prone to breakage.
With that said, it's an excellent choice for those who want to manage thinning hair and hair fall. It's also a suitable shampoo for those who want one that can provide gentle cleansing since it does not contain ingredients like sulfate and silicone.
From ₱1,750
Kerastase’s shampoo is ideal if you have the tendency to wrestle your hair into place. As its namesake suggests, it gently cleanses your hair while providing discipline - it transforms your frizzy hair into soft and smooth hair. It makes your hair more manageable and easy to detangle for up to 72 hours!
Their shampoo uses morpho-keratine, which coats each hair fiber and restores uniformity to make it smooth. The good thing is, it won’t make your hair greasy or heavy, despite its promise of taming unruly strands. Its gentle formula can be used to care for chemically treated and colored hair as well.
From ₱249
To nurture and enhance your curls or waves, look no further than this shampoo! This sulfate-free shampoo from Zenutrients is also paraben and silicone-free, and it is infused with avocado and tea tree to thoroughly clean your hair without causing further damage to your hair strand and hair texture.
Tea tree helps prevent the buildup of chemicals and dead skin on the scalp, and the avocado nourishes the hair to make it as strong as it can be. Reviewers have been praising this shampoo for its effectiveness and its affordable price. You can get yours now for less than 250 pesos!
From ₱249
If you feel like you need more moisture in your hair, or if you want to prevent dryness and dullness from happening to your tresses, try this shampoo bar from Magwai. It has all-natural ingredients and produces low foam volume.
It can gently but thoroughly cleanse your hair without stripping it of moisture. Not only does it help your hair strands, but it also promotes healthy hair growth, and it also helps improve the condition of your scalp. For a gentle everyday all-around shampoo, this is your best bet!
From ₱350
Prevent your colored locks from fading with this sulfate-free shampoo from L’oreal. They are known for being one of the first affordable brands to introduce sulfate-free ranges in their line. Their shampoo is intended to keep your color pure for up to 4 weeks. This way, it won’t fade within the next few days.
Their shampoo is formulated with rosemary flowers, which promotes hair growth. It also replenishes dry hair with essential moisture, giving it shine and luster. This way, your hair won’t look dull. You can shampoo in peace, knowing your hair will be vibrant and moisturized after wash.
Switching to sulfate-free shampoos can take some getting used to. For one thing, it doesn't lather as much as regular shampoos. Here's how you can utilize it properly.
Before you slather on your shampoo, make sure your hair is thoroughly wet. We've mentioned that sulfates help a product produce a lather. The absence of sulfate means it won't lather as much. This is fine.
Don't worry, your hair is still getting cleaned, even without the bubbles. If you think you need more product, you can opt to add more water instead of piling on more shampoo.
Surfactants in shampoos, whether they contain sulfates or not, need water to wash effectively. Wetting your hair thoroughly before applying shampoo allows surfactants to bind well to the oil and dirt on your hair. You can also dilute your shampoo with a little water instead of applying directly to your scalp. Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp before rinsing.
Ideally, you should leave it on your hair for about a minute to really let the product sink in. However if you find that your hair still doesn't feel clean, you can always opt to shampoo twice. This is because it can be quite a feat to get rid of oil, dirt, and hair products used on your hair without the help of the foaming action you get.
On your second wash, though, you will find that the product is easier to lather and will spread better as well. You can really feel the dirt lifting from your hair, and this will give you that squeaky clean feeling you want.
A shampoo that foams well doesn’t mean it cleans better. Conversely, a shampoo that doesn't foam well can also clean well. Sulfate-free shampoos may not foam as well as those containing sulfates, but they can still clean as well as sulfate-containing shampoos. Shampoo twice only when your hair is really dirty or when you use a lot of hair styling products. Make sure to use a conditioner afterward.
After you have lathered, rinsed, and repeated, it is time to rinse your hair. Make sure to remove any traces of your shampoo. Your hair would end up feeling heavy if you hadn't removed any residue of your shampoo.
Make sure to rinse well after shampooing to remove soap suds and residue, which can build up and look like flakes and dandruff. Rinse hair in sections, and don't forget to wash the back of the head. Use a clarifying shampoo once to twice a week to remove residue from your scalp and hair.
If you still have burning questions that you need to be answered, below are some of Dr. Barbara's answers to the internet's most asked questions!
Hair loss is caused by a variety of factors such as hormonal dysfunction, stress, chronic illness, and nutritional deficiencies. sulfate-containing shampoos, in general, do not cause hair loss. However, in certain individuals who have sensitive skin on their scalp, damaged hair (from coloring, perming, or straightening), or those with brittle hair, sulfate-containing shampoos are more likely to irritate the scalp and can cause further hair breakage.
Silicones in styling products coat the hair cuticle making hair softer and protecting the hair from the heat of styling tools. Most sulfate-free shampoos use gentler surfactants to wash away dirt and oils from hair.
These surfactants may not be enough to remove hair product build-ups such as those from silicones (particularly dimethicone) from the scalp and hair. For individuals who use a lot of hairstyling and leave-on hair products, sulfate-free shampoos may not be a good choice for their hair cleansing needs.
How often you wash your hair depends on your hair type and lifestyle, not just the type of shampoo. For dry or brittle hair or sensitive scalps, wash hair less often, around two to three times a week. For fine hair and oily scalps, wash hair every other day to daily. For individuals who work out often or sweat a lot, it is recommended to wash their hair daily. Hair cleansing habits vary from person to person.
Sulfates are not typically hazardous to your hair and scalp but over-cleansing with these products can dry out your hair and scalp. Some sulfate-free formulations can also be drying and cause skin sensitivity. If your sulfate-containing shampoo works for you, there's no need to switch.
However, if your scalp or hair is drier or itchier than usual, it may be time to purchase a sulfate-free shampoo. If your scalp or hair issue persists, talk to a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
We're pretty sure you have got your skincare routine down pat. But don't forget about your hair! Here are some products for you to check out to indulge in a little self-care for your hair.
Author: Justine Cuizon
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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