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Kaye's Beauty

Sulfates: Do They Really Deserve the Negative Press?


In today’s beauty market, the word "synthetic" has taken on a negative connotation, as consumers increasingly lean toward naturally-derived products. In recent years, the media has largely guided shoppers away from ingredients like artificial fragrances and sulfates, promoting more "natural" alternatives. However, as we've previously discussed, the term "natural" is somewhat misleading, as there are no universal standards defining what qualifies as a "natural" beauty product. Sulfates, in particular, have been targeted by a strong wave of criticism—but is it justified?


Sulfates


Type of Ingredient: Cleansing Agent


Primary Benefits: Effectively removes oil, dirt, and product build-up from hair while providing a rich lather in shampoo.


Who Should Use It: Ideal for those with oily hair or significant build-up.


Recommended Usage: Suitable for daily use.


Best Paired With: Moisturizing oils such as coconut oil and argan oil.


Avoid Using With: Strong cleansers like charcoal, as the combination could be overly harsh on hair.


Benefits of sulfates for hair

We know countless beauty enthusiasts who won’t even go near a hair product containing sulfates. We once heard a beauty editor audibly gasp at the mention of the word, much like someone might react if they heard a person still uses a tanning bed. Some people even believe sulfates are just as harmful. In the late '90s, rumors began circulating in the media that certain chemicals in shampoos, including sulfates and synthetic fragrances, might be linked to cancer. Since then, many consumers have grown particularly cautious of anything synthetic, sulfates included. However, the reality is far less alarming: Sulfates often receive negative attention, and the natural product community dislikes them, but they are completely safe ingredients. In fact, sulfates are used in hair care products for several good reasons:

  • Cleansing: As surfactants, sulfates excel at removing dirt and oil from the hair. Sebum can trap dirt, pollen, and pollutants, which we definitely don’t want in our hair.

  • Lathering: Sulfates are also highly effective because they produce a rich lather, allowing you to use less product while still getting a thorough clean.

  • Removing Product Build-Up: If you use a lot of hair products, especially heavier ones, you know how difficult they can be to rinse out. Sulfates effectively clean the hair of stubborn product residue, helping to prevent build-up.

  • Fighting Bacteria: Sodium lauryl sulfate has antimicrobial properties, which can help maintain a healthy scalp.

  • Easy Rinsing: Sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) not only effectively remove sebum from the scalp and hair, but they also rinse out easily with water, leaving no product residue behind.


Hair Type Considerations

Since sulfates are essentially detergents, they are particularly appealing to those with oily hair. However, they can be so effective at cleansing that they sometimes strip the hair of its natural oils and nutrients. If you don’t have sensitive skin, sulfates can be useful for getting a deep clean during washes and shampoos. Focus on your oiliest and least sensitive areas. If you have oily hair, look for shampoos containing sodium lauryl sulfate, which is tough on grease. For normal to dry hair, sodium laureth sulfate is a better option, as it provides a gentler cleanse. Of course, if you have very dry or damaged hair, sensitive skin, or a skin condition, choosing milder sulfate-free products might be a better choice.


How to Use Sulfates for Hair


We’re willing to bet that shampoo—whether sulfate-free or not—is a staple in your hair care routine. If you’re worried about losing your hair’s natural oils, the only way to prevent that is to stop washing your hair altogether. All shampoos remove natural oils—that’s how they clean.

Since going without shampoo isn’t a realistic option (let’s be honest), it’s crucial to use shampoos with sulfates correctly and in moderation. This approach ensures that you get the benefits of cleansing without overdoing it. If overused or left on too long, sulfates can strip oils and cause irritation. So, it’s important to find the right balance in your washing routine—cleansing your hair without stripping it of moisture. For most people, this simply means washing with shampoo and following up with conditioner. The result? Squeaky-clean hair and that satisfying fresh feeling.


Kaye's Beauty Book is here to help you choose better products that suit your skin, hair and lifestyle. All of the products mentioned are carefully researched and selected to ensure that the most credible information comes to you. If you do buy a product from one of our links, Kaye's Beauty Book may earn a commission.


II DISCLAIMER: Every skin is different, not everything works for everybody. I recommend you test the product before completely using any new product. II

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