Sulfates are salts of sulfuric acid that directly affect the degree of cleansing of the hair and scalp, form foam and help to quickly remove dirt and excess sebum.
Sulfates as surfactants can be found in many detergents, from baby shampoo to dishwashing liquid. The difference is only in the concentration and degree of emulsification of fats.
Should I use sulfate-free shampoos?
Most often sulfate-free shampoos are recommended to be used to preserve the color of dyed hair or after lamination procedures, Botox, so that sulfates do not remove excess fats, which maintain the shine and smoothness of the hair.
BUT‼️ Sulfate-free shampoos do not fully fulfill their task for the normal functioning of pilosebatory structures: there is no high-quality cleansing of the scalp and hair from dirt, dust, there is a feeling of oiliness and “unwashed” hair. Excess sebum and dead horny scales accumulate on the skin, the mouths of hair follicles become clogged, and hyperkeratosis appears. This condition can lead to increased hair loss, diffuse telogen alopecia.
From the point of view of dermatologists and trichologists, cleansing the scalp with mild surfactants is more effective than without them.
Surfactants in shampoos: how to choose the right one and what to look for
The sulfates most commonly found on shampoo labels are Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS), and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). SLS and ALS can cause dryness, flaking, skin irritation, and even allergic reactions.
But SLES is a mild surfactant, it does not cause irritation, burning and other unpleasant sensations even with prolonged contact with the skin, not to mention a three-minute exposure during shampooing. Also, SLES is recognized as less aggressive, it is acceptable to use it in products for cleansing even children’s scalp and hair.
Note! Not only sulfates can cleanse the scalp and hair of impurities. There are other effective and safe surfactants: for example, Cocamidopropyl Betaine and its derivatives synthesized from coconut oil fatty acids. They gently and delicately cleanse the scalp and hair, have a neutral pH and at the same time form a thick foam for effective cleansing.
For perfect cleansing, it is necessary to combine surfactants with oils, fat-soluble vitamins, which, due to their chemical properties, are able to dissolve fat in fat, gently cleanse the scalp, hair, and at the same time maintain shine, water-lipid mantle and balance of fatty acids.
The shampoos from NEOTHRIX treatment and care line by Reneo cosmetics were developed on this principle of combination – a complex regenerating RICH REPARING SHAMPOO and an ANTI-DANRUFF SHAMPOO with an antiseptic effect.
