Sulphate-free Products:
Hair care, skin care, and cleaning sulfate-free products do not contain sulfates, a type of surfactant. Sulfates are chemicals commonly used in many personal care and cleaning products due to their ability to create lather and foam and their effective cleansing properties. Some individuals can develop sensitivity or dryness to sulfates, especially in hair care items.
Types of sulfates: The two most frequently occurring sulfates in personal care items are sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium Laureth sulfate (SLES). The natural oils from the skin and hair can be removed by these sulfates, causing dryness, irritation, and possible damage.
Products that do not have sulfates are formulated without these harsh sulfates, making them a gentler option for individuals with sensitive skin or those looking for a milder cleansing experience. For instance, people with colored hair usually prefer shampoos free of sulfates because sulfates can remove hair dye and cause the color to fade.
Other options instead of sulfates are gentler surfactants or cleansing agents, like coco-betaines, sodium Cocoyl isethionate, and sulfosuccinates formulated to cleanse without stripping too much natural oil from the skin or hair.
Silicon-free Products:
Silicone-free products do not include silicones, which are synthetic polymers commonly found in many personal care and beauty products.
30 Sulphate and Silicon-free shampoos in India in 2024 |
Build-Up: Over time, silicones can form a layer on the hair strand that could result in a buildup of the product. This accumulation can cause the hair to become heavy and oily and may need strong sulfates to be effectively removed.
Curly Hair Concerns: Certain people with curly or wavy hair opt for products free of silicones because silicones can make curls heavy and diminish their natural bounce.
Silicone-free products utilize different ingredients and formulas to achieve comparable cosmetic results without depending on silicones. Other options that are free from silicone include natural oils, plant extracts, and various conditioning agents.