What are Sulfates?
Synthetics and chemicals have run rampant in all types of beauty products for a very long time. Haircare products are no exception! Shampoos and hair treatments have been some of the most toxic products on the market for a while.
People are realizing that hair products need to be looked at under a magnifying glass as much as any other beauty products in their cabinets! We're finding sulfates everywhere and it’s not ok. Before we get into why, let’s look at what ‘Sulfates’ are and how they could be negatively impacting our hair and skin!
Sulfates is a group of a few chemicals based on specific properties and how they interact with other chemicals in a product. Some of these include sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, and sodium laureth sulfate. Without getting too deep into the science, these are the ingredients that attract the dirt and grime from your hair (or body) and allow you to rinse away the suds with water.
They are a type of ingredient called a "surfactant." Some sulfates are milder than others, but generally speaking, there are some things to consider before purchasing a product containing these synthetics.
How Could Sulfates Be Harmful?
Some time ago a scary rumour circulated in the beauty community that sulfates were a carcinogen (cancer-causing.) However, there has been research conducted that contests this theory. Phew!
The real harm comes when we realize the harsh potential of these chemicals. These chemicals are good at their job when it comes to getting rid of dirt in your hair, but sometimes they're too good. Many people experience redness, dryness, and itching after shampooing and it could be directly related to the ingredients in their products!
When the skin or hair’s natural microbiome is obliterated the skin/hair tends to react.
The sulfates also strip your hair and scalp of natural oils your body produces to protect and nourish your scalp and skin. People with naturally curlier hair should opt-out of sulfate-containing shampoo because of its harsher, oil-stripping properties. It can lead to frizzy, dried out hair! If you have sensitive skin or even eczema, moving away from sulfates could help you maintain your natural oils and moisture.
Should I avoid Sulfates at all Costs?
Not necessarily. Although the chemicals in some shampoos can be harmful to some folks, particularly with sensitive skin and pre-existing conditions, that doesn't mean you should be afraid of them.
Sulfates do a good job of cleaning your hair and scalp but if you have any skin or scalp reactions taking products with sulfates out of your regimen will likely help.
Even though sulfates have gotten a bad rep and should be on your ‘chemicals you should be wary of’ list when buying shampoo, they’re not completely evil.
There are more natural shampoos that have sulfates as well! But with the myriad of natural shampoo options that have emerged in the past year, you should consider your hair and skin needs before purchasing hair products, and while being aware of the ingredients they contain!
If you are using sulfates, consider how often you are washing your hair and scalp. These synthetics are very good at their job and it may be necessary to allow breaks up to a week between uses. Look into your hair and skin needs to figure out what are the best clean products for your hair, skin and health!
Take a look at your current hair care routine and look at how your products are either helping or hurting you. Ingredients are key!
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4651417/
https://www.byrdie.com/what-are-sulfates
https://www.self.com/story/sulfate-free-shampoo
https://www.byrdie.com/how-often-should-i-wash-my-hair-4780215
https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/706110-SODIUM_LAURYL_SULFATE/#.W3yMGJNKjBJ
https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/706089-SODIUM_LAURETH_SULFATE/#.W3yMNpNKjBI