If you know your hair, you likely have heard of the raging debate over sulfates in shampoos, and might have even wondered if your sulfate-containing shampoo is safe to use. We’ve done the research to put your mind at rest.

First of all, what are sulfates? Sulfates are the chemicals in shampoos that cause suds to develop. In short, the sulfates in your shampoo are what cause your shampoo to lather when you wash your hair. Sulfates attract dirt and oil from your hair and scalp, thereby allowing you to rinse these away with water. They are present in the majority of shampoos that are used by American women. In fact, sulfates are even present in your body wash and toothpaste. These are cleaning agents and it’s highly likely that you’re using products containing these chemicals.

There are three types of sulfates – sodium laureth, sodium laurel, and ammonium laureth. All three types of sulfates may cause irritation or itching to some people. However, sodium laureth and ammonium laureth are believed to be milder on the scalp and less likely to cause irritation.

So, should you switch to a sulfate-free alternative?

It depends. If you have colored hair, then a sulfate -free shampoo will reduce the irritation that people with colored hair sometimes experience with regular shampoos. Besides, sulfates may clean hair, but they also leave hair looking faded. You might find that your color fades faster and looks lackluster after using sulfate-containing shampoos. Any type of hair treatment or hair coloring regimen is likely to leave hair dry and sensitive. A sulfate-free shampoo would be best in a case like this.

Want to know of the best sulphate-free alternatives for your hair?

Talk to a hair stylist at Hairsay Salon in Garden City Park.

Sulfates clean hair, but can also strip it of essential oils and moisture, leaving it dry and damaged. If your hair is extremely dry and frizzy, switch to a sulfate -free alternative and see the results. If you have an itchy scalp, then a sulphate-free shampoo is your best bet.

Some people also experience eye redness and irritation when suds from sulfates get into their eyes. If you’re in this category, try changing shampoos and see if it works.

If you do not fall in any of these categories, and find that your sulfate-containing shampoo is working great at keeping your hair strong and healthy, there no reason to switch. Many of the health concerns around sulfates, including claims that these increase the risk of cancer have been thoroughly debunked. Hair stylists at Long island hair salons like Hairsay have seen no evidence to show that they increase the risk of any health problems in users.
If you want to try out a sulfate -free alternative, there is no harm in doing so. However, you might find that sulphate-free shampoos take a harder time to lather. You might have to massage the product a little more vigorously into your scalp to thoroughly clean your scalp. Ask your stylist at Hairsay Salon for the best sulfate -free shampoo for your kind of hair.