What Are Sulfates And Are They Right For You?

In today’s booming ‘clean’ and ‘natural’ beauty sector, sulfate-free shampoos are gaining recognition for their numerous benefits. These products tend to not contain sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), (which offer a rich lather and excel at deep cleaning and buildup elimination) but instead sulfate-free formulas can offer a gentler cleanse with different benefits. So why switch? -While sulfates effectively bind to oil, dirt, and product residues, some individuals prefer to effectively remove impurities without removing all of the hair’s natural oils, helping to maintain a balanced scalp microbiome whilst still achieving clean and hydrated hair overall.

What Are Sulfates? 

The most common sulfates found in hair care products include: Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES, Ammonium lauryl sulfate (ALS) and Ammonium laureth sulfate and they tend to do different things such as create a rich lather and provide a deep clean. We love our sulfate ranges (such as Orofluido™ also!) However with all products there will always be individual preferences. So if you still like a soft lather, but would like to adopt sulfate free or just for more choices to try. Consider products like Eksperience™ which offers a range of vegan formulas free from unnecessary colorants and silicones. With over 76% natural origin ingredients, products are not only committed to environmental sustainability but also deliver professional performance, ensuring a clean and effective hair care routine. Discover more about Eksperience™ here.

Is A Sulfate-Free Shampoo Right For You?

While sulfates are the king at deep cleansing and eliminating buildup, they may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with color-treated hair. Exploring sulfate-free alternatives can provide a solution that better aligns with individual hair care needs and preferences. So let’s check out some tips and solutions!

1. Scalp: The robust cleansing action of sulfates can remove not just dirt and oil but also some of the scalp’s natural oils (sebum). Sulfate free still cleans but may be better suited if you wash your hair frequently.
2. Color Fading: For those with dyed or chemically treated hair, using a color safe or sulfate free alternative may help with the longevity and vibrancy of hair color.
3. Use our Nutri Color™ Filters by Revlon Professional at home and in the salon! These semi-permanent treatment color masks will help to refresh the color while caring for the hair.
4. Soothe: If you have a dry or sensitive scalp then use our Moisturizing RE/START™ Hydration scalp lotion to help to soothe it.
5. Environmental Concerns: Perhaps you may just fancy a change, we have some tips to help salons elevate salons through sustainability.

Sulfate Free choices For Textured hair

For textured hair we really love using a gentle cleanser that effectively washes your hair and scalp while preserving their natural balance and hydration levels. For this, we suggest trying the RE/START CURLS NOURISHING CLEANSER alongside the RE/START Curls range. These moisturizing products are curated to restore your hair’s natural oils, promoting ultimate curl definition and enhancing the personality of natural curly hair, all while being Curly Girl Method compliant. The Curly Girl Method emphasizes avoiding damaging habits and focuses on treating and nourishing each type of textured hair uniquely to achieve the best possible curl results.

With the right approach and the proper products, you can embrace and celebrate all types of hair with confidence. Become an expert at identifying all types of textured hair and find out more on how sulfate can affect the hair and scalp by checking out our 24/7 education platform REVLON PRO ALWAYSON. You can also stock up on your favorite professional product on our PRO SHOP (for clients only so become one today).