The Low-Down on Sulfates in Your Hair and Beauty Regimen

With all the hype about sulfates, maybe it’s time to check the ingredient list on your beauty products. Why are sulfates bad for you? If these common chemicals are part of your daily regimen, you could be drying out your hair and skin and not even realize it.

It’s Time for Sulfates 101

So…what are sulfates, and why are they such a big deal? As a common component of many beauty products, they lift away the dirt and oil to let them be washed down the drain. Most of these substances appear on product labels in one of three forms:

• Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
• Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALS)

You might wonder how sulfates became a standard ingredient in personal care items. It happened in the early 1930s, when Proctor & Gamble created a shampoo that used a sulfate base. After that, sulfate-based shampoos and body cleansers took the beauty world by storm.

How do these substances accomplish the feat of cleaning your skin and scalp? Classified as surfactants, one end of a sulfate molecule grabs oil and dirt while the other attracts water. With a foaming lather as a pleasant bonus, they dissolve impurities into a solution that rinses away.

Common Aftereffects of Sulfates

The properties of sulfates sound pretty cool, right? Yet one unfortunate side effect of their magic is that they can remove the healthy, essential natural oils. If your hair feels like straw or your outer epidermal layers seem parched, the sulfates in your beauty regime could be a chief culprit.

Maybe you’ve already heard the other kind of negative press about sulfates: the claim that they cause cancer. The truth is that they are not known carcinogens. However, these substances can produce unwanted reactions, especially in individuals with sensitive skin.

What are typical symptoms in people susceptible to irritation from sulfates? Some report itchiness, redness, increased appearance of acne and in extreme cases, minor hair loss. If this sounds like your situation, sulfate-free beauty care options can be your key to healthy-looking hair and skin.

Revamping Your Hair Care Regimen

So…you’ve noticed excessive dryness and irritation, you’ve looked at the back of your shampoo bottle and you’re ready to swap to no-sulfate versions. Where do you even start? And what is sulfate-free shampoo, anyway?

One good starting point is the Pravana NEVO Reparative Shampoo and Conditioner combo pack. Packed with quinoa and soy proteins, Pravana’s cleansing and moisturizing duo help increase your mane’s strength and bring back its lost elasticity. You’ll accomplish several goals with one product: replacing both your shampoo and conditioner and repairing your stressed out, brittle tresses.

For chemically treated and damaged hair, another star performer is Mixed Chicks’ Sulfate-Free Shampoo. Ideal for all types and textures, it’s great for gently cleansing your locks without stripping them of oils or dulling their color. Damaged hair also gets an extra moisture boost with Mixed Chicks’ Leave-In Conditioner.

Sulfate-Free Bath and Body Solutions

Are sulfates bad for your skin? Most of the chatter about them focuses on hair care products, but people who are sensitive to certain chemicals and additives can also benefit from sulfate-free products. Switching can eliminate common symptoms such as irritation, inflammation and increased acne.

Need a starting point for culling the sulfates from your bath products? Free & Clear’s Liquid Cleanser is a top choice for individuals with sensitive skin. Besides being sulfate-free, this gentle cleaner does not contain any dyes, formaldehyde, parabens and perfumes.

Looking for a little extra pampering? Try REN Skincare Moroccan Rose Otto Body Wash, which features nourishing essential oils and extracts that soothe, refresh and calm. In addition to containing no sulfates, it’s an excellent daily wash that’s also vegan and cruelty-free.

Sulfate-Free Options for Men

Sulfate-related skin troubles such as dryness, inflammation and irritation know no gender. Gents, you’ve got cleansing options that also treat you to some nourishing benefits. Thanks to some natural innovative products, you don’t have to miss out on sulfate-free options.

For a simple, no-frills clean that’s also refreshing, the Combat Ready Organic Soap delivers. True to its name, it’s tough on dirt and grime but treats your epidermal layer gently with black tea, vitamin E, rosemary oil and natural moisturizers.

Guys, there are great solutions for you in the hair care department, too. Philip B’s Nordic Wood Shampoo is fortified with natural oils that nourish your mane from root to tip, and it leaves behind an invigorating woody scent as a bonus. To repair dry, lifeless hair, add Philip B’s Lovin’ Leave-In Conditioning Creme to your routine.

Treat Your Skin Right

As the largest organ of your body, your skin helps protect your body and regulate its temperature. Whether it’s your face, your body or your scalp, caring for it properly involves a combination of good nutrition and nourishing products. Check out LaLa Daisy’s full catalog for sulfate-free options that help maintain your epidermis’ natural balance.