The next time you wash your hair, take a quick moment to run your fingers through it. How does it feel; a little rigid or maybe even course to the touch? Before you go blaming “hard” water – or water that contains unusually high mineral deposits like calcium or magnesium – for the condition that your hair is in, you might want to read the label on your favorite bottle of shampoo.
Why?
Because that brand you’ve come to know and love may very well contain sulfates, a key ingredient used in products like dishwashing liquids, shower gels, toothpaste, laundry detergents and shampoo to create a foaming or lathering effect when mixed with water.
There are several different types of sulfates. SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), SLES (sodium laureth sulfate) and ALS (ammonium laureth sulfate) are classified as surfactants, or powerful bubbling agents used to help strip away oil, dirt and grease.
When it comes to cleaning a sink full of dirty dishes or a load of smelly laundry, it makes sense. But, that’s just not the case if you want to maintain the health of your hair.
So what should you keep in mind when it comes to choosing a sulfate-free shampoo that’s right for you? The price tag will likely be a deciding factor because of the association between “sulfate-free” and “all-natural,” which usually carries a higher price point.
But, thanks to the natural hair movement, women who opt for chemical free styling have more choices than ever, including Shea Moisture’s Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo, Organix Shampoo Nourishing Coconut Milk and Crème of Nature Moisture & Shine Shampoo w/ Argan Oil.
Do you have a favorite “go-to” shampoo that’s sulfate free? Let us know what’s working for you right now by leaving a comment below.
Quin Brewington has been a natural hair enthusiast for nearly 20 years and recently launched her own blog, SisterLadyGirl.com aimed at helping women in their 40s and beyond navigate this thing called life with style and grace.