What Is Sulfate-Free Shampoo?

Sulfates are commonly added to shampoos as primary surfactants due to their notable cleansing properties. Two of the most common types of sulfates added are sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). These sulfates remove excess oil, dirt, grime, product residue, and buildup from the scalp to clean it. But they can also suck out the natural oils from your scalp, leaving it dry and flaking, causing itchiness and hair fall. Shampoos that don’t contain sulfates in any form are called sulfate-free shampoos. Using sulfate-free shampoos allows you to cleanse your hair thoroughly while avoiding the harsh effects of sulfate shampoos. Listed below are the many benefits of using sulfate-free shampoos.

Why Should You Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo?

While sulfates like SLS and SLES deeply cleanse the scalp, they can also be harsh on hair. Sulfate-free shampoos mostly use natural ingredients to cleanse the scalp deeply without drying or damaging hair. Most sulfate-free shampoos use organic ingredients which have additional benefits like moisturizing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, or anti-frizz properties. These properties greatly benefit and improve hair and scalp health and quality. Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on the skin and hair. They don’t cause irritations or leave the hair dry. They are also usually color-safe. Most of them can be used on sensitive scalps, color-treated and chemically processed hair. Although not common, sometimes sulfates can buildup in the heart, liver, brain, and lungs, which may lead to carcinogenicity. Using sulfate-free shampoos eliminates this risk.

Now that you know the benefits of using these shampoos, here are our top 25 sulfate-free shampoos for you to check out.

25 Best Sulfate-Free Shampoos Available In Drugstores

1. Best For UV Protection:Pure Nature Argan Oil Deep Nourishing Shampoo

The Argan Oil Deep Nourishing Shampoo hydrates the hair, restoring its moisture levels. It is color-safe and can also be used on keratin-treated hair. It is made with vitamins and antioxidants that provide UV and thermal protection. These ingredients also replenish and repair hair from the damaging effects of using heating tools and chemical processes. It is ideal for frizzy, curly, wavy, fine, and thick hair. This shampoo enhances hair’s structure, increases its manageability, shine, and softness. It controls and smoothens frizz, making hair silky and soft. It increases curl definition too. This shampoo contains Vitamin E which permeates the hair cuticle, strengthening the hair from within to make it thicker and younger-looking. Pros

Paraben-free Gluten-free Phothalate-free No sodium chloride UV protection Recommended by hair stylists

Cons

Has added fragrance

2. Best Color-Safe Formula:Phillip Adam Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo

The Phillip Adam Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo removes any dirt, product residue, buildup, and toxins from hair and scalp.It is formulated with plant-based and botanical extracts, like natural apple extract, pear extract, and lime essential oil, which fortify and replenish hair. It contains apple cider vinegar which regulates the pH of hair and scalp. It also increases hair shine, reduces frizz, and boosts hair and scalp health. It leaves hair with a refreshing citrusy green apple fragrance. It does not contain any chemicals, silicones, dyes, parabens, sulfates, or harsh preservatives. It is a gluten-free, cruelty-free, and vegan product. It is exclusively made for regular use on color-treated, oily, and virgin hair. Pros

Gluten-free Plant-based, vegan Color-safe Cruelty-free Silicone-free Paraben-free Dye-free

Cons

May dry out some hair types

3. Best For Scalp Cleansing:Girl+Hair Cleanser

The Girl+Hair Cleanser is a concentrated hydrating shampoo. It is made with a gentle formula and can be used on all hair types. It can be used regularly as it does not strip moisture away from hair. It is specially formulated to reduce itchiness and flaking on the scalp and to increase shine and elasticity of hair. It transforms dull and dry hair into bouncy and healthy locks. This cleanser is made with tea tree and neem oil which provide great antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection to the hair and scalp. These ingredients also cleanse the scalp, removing impurities and buildup. Shea butter, also present in the cleanser, hydrates and protects the hair and scalp, boosting its health and promoting hair growth, shine, and elasticity. This product is cruelty-free and does not contain any sulfates, parabens, phthalates, artificial colors, or other harmful ingredients. Pros

Cruelty-free Paraben-free Phthalate-free No artificial color

Cons

Strong scent

4. Best Anti-Frizz Formula:LuxeOrganix Rejuvenating Argan Oil Shampoo

The Rejuvenating Argan Oil Shampoo from LuxeOrganix is ideal for color- and keratin-treated hair. It contains vitamins and antioxidants that nourish, repair, and protect hair from thermal and UV damage. It restores hair from damage caused by irons, blow dryers, curlers, or chemical treatments. This shampoo enhances hair structure while making it soft, healthy, and manageable. It contains Vitamin B5, which enters the hair cuticle and strengthens it from within. It helps control frizz, increases curl definition, enhances smoothness and shine.  It does not contain any other harsh chemicals that may cause skin irritation, hair loss, or hair damage. It has a lovely orange creamsicle fragrance. This video review will help you learn more about the product. Pros

Paraben-free Gluten-free Sodium chloride-free Phthalate-free Reduces frizz Enhances curl definition

Cons

Contains palm oil which may cause allergic reactions

5. Best Cruelty-Free Formula:Om Botanical Anti-Hairloss Organic Shampoo

The Om Botanical Anti-Hair loss Shampoos is best suited for unbleached and unprocessed hair, although it can be used on all hair types. It is made with botanical ingredients that cleanse the hair and scalp. It has a lovely peppermint fragrance. This shampoo replenishes hair with essential nutrients, repairing damage and promoting cell growth. It is a 100% naturally-derived shampoo made with soap nuts and biotin. Soap nut may help reduce scalp eczema and psoriasis. It prevents hair loss and treats dandruff. It is made with an advanced formulation containing broad-spectrum DHT blockers, like pumpkin seed oil.It also contains neem, holy basil, willow bark, and vitamin B3, which prevent dandruff and soothes the scalp from itching, eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. It contains essential amino acids which repair, fortify and protect hair. Pros

Vegan Cruelty-free Gluten-free Silicone-free Paraben-free Petrochemical-free No artificial fragrance No synthetic compounds Hypoallergenic

Cons

Contains added xanthan gum which may cause allergic reactions

6. Best Fade-Proof Formula:Rusk Smooth Deep Shine Color

The Smooth Deep shine Color shampoo from Rusk is formulated with marine botanicals and an exclusive patented UV-absorbing technology. This technology contains antioxidant-enriched Vitamin E, which protects the hair from fading due to sun damage. It provides long-lasting frizz control, while smoothing and hydrating messy hair. It is a sulfate-free shampoo made with a gentle formula that preserves color intensity. Pros

Gentle formula Long-lasting frizz control Exclusive UV-absorbing technology

Cons

Might not work on all hair types Contains cocamidopropyl betaine Contains added fragrance, PEG, and EDTA

7. Best Hair Nutrition:Vernon Francis Curl Shampoo

The Curl Shampoo from Vernon Francis is formulated with natural botanicals that cleanse and condition curls. It increases moisture and nourishes dry, curly, coily, or wavy textured tresses. It is made with shea butter, seaweed extract, jojoba oil, olive oil, tea tree oil, echinacea extract and grape seed extract. Shea butter improves hair softness, and olive oil makes hair silky smooth. The seaweed extract smoothes hair, while the tea tree oil unclogs hair follicles. Echinacea extracts boost hydration and supplies nutrition to hair. Grape seed extracts increase moisture and shine in hair. Jojoba oil helps in frizz balance and improves hair management. Pros

Paraben-free Silicone-free Vegan Frizz control Coconut fragrance

Cons

Contains cocamidopropyl betaine and PEGs

8. Best Lightweight Formula:Majestic Pure Daily Nourishing Shampoo

The Majestic Pure Daily Nourishing Shampoo is made with pure lavender, chamomile, and rosemary essential oils. It emits a floral scent of lavender. This shampoo nourishes and moisturizes dry and damaged hair. Its natural ingredients promote natural hair growth, while cleansing the scalp and hair. It removes buildup, dirt, product residue, deeply cleaning and soothing the scalp. It has a mild formula suitable for daily use. It is a color-safe shampoo. The shampoo also contains pure aloe vera gel to hydrate and nourish hair and the scalp. It has a lightweight consistency that does not weigh down hair. Pros

Lightweight Unisex Cruelty-free Color-safe Floral scent

Cons

Contains xanthan gum thatmay cause reactions

9. Best Hypoallergenic:Dayspa Body Basics Lemongrass Shampoo Bar

This Lemongrass Shampoo Bar is ideal for any camping trip or vacation. It is biodegradable, river-friendly, and nature-safe. It emits a refreshing citrus fragrance with subtle earthy notes. The aroma relieves, soothes, stimulates, and balances your senses and hair. This bar cleanses the scalp and hair thoroughly while nourishing them too. It is made with natural and safe plant-derived ingredients like plant-based oils and botanical extracts. However, it does not contain any of the top food allergens like gluten, soy, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, or corn. Pros

Hypoallergenic Vegan Eco-friendly TSA-friendly Cruelty-free Allergen-free Paraben-free Sulfates-free Petrochemicals-free

Cons

Might weigh hair down

10. Best For Hair Growth:Gavean Astragalus Shampoo

The Gavean Astragalus Shampoo contains astragalus root, a huáng qí – a medicinal herb. This root extract cleanses, revitalizes, fortifies, and grows hair. It reduces any free radical damage caused by environmental factors. It increases hair shine, while also repairing any damage from heat styling tools. It contains chia seed oil, lavender, burdock root, basil oil, hibiscus, nettle seed, and rice protein, which increase the effects of the astragalus root, strengthening and replenishing hair. Pros

Mild formula Lavender fragrance Sulfate-free Paraben-free Phosphate-free Silicone-free Phthalates-free Gluten-free

Cons

May not work on all hair types

11. Aveeno Pure Renewal Shampoo

The Pure Renewal Shampoo from Aveeno aims to return hair to its natural, healthy, and balanced state. It is formulated by an expert team of scientists with active natural seaweed extract and other naturally-derived cleansers. It is infused with Natrasurf technology which cleanses the scalp by lifting away all impurities without making hair dry. It refreshes hair and improves its manageability. It leaves you with weightless, soft, shiny, and healthy hair. This video will help you make an informed decision about your purchase. Pros

Color-safe Gentle formula

Cons

None

12. Puriya Tea Tree Oil Shampoo

This clarifying shampoo is made with a gentle formula that completely removes any buildup from hair. It moisturizes and cleanses hair effectively. It is made with an exclusive blend of tea tree oil, arnica, sage, and rosemary, which cleanses, soothes, and moisturizes dry scalps. It reduces flaking or scaling and repairs brittle and damaged hair. It hydrates hair, locks in moisture within the cuticle, and revitalizes the scalp. You’ll notice a change within the first few washes. It is a pH-balanced shampoo made with plant-based ingredients. It can be used by adults and children, and even on pets. It has a soothing rosemary fragrance. Pros

pH-balanced Sulfate-free No sodium chloride Paraben-free No artificial fragrance Soothing rosemary fragrance

Cons

May not work for all hair types

13. Nexxus Color Assure Shampoo

The Nexxus Color Assure Shampoo cleanses color-treated hair without removing any color vibrance. It enhances the lifespan of color brightness for up to 40 washes. It is made with an exclusive proteinfusion blend containing elastin protein and quinoa. This blend rejuvenates and revives hair making it healthy and full of life. The proteinfusion blend was formulated by Nexxus scientists, who determined that hair coloration was the main cause for loss of hair color and dullness. This blend enriches hair with nutrients and proteins which gets lost during hair coloring. It leaves colored hair bright and revitalized. Pros

Sulfate-free Silicone-free Exclusive proteinfusion Made by Mexxus Scientists Color-safe

Cons

Leaves residue in hair

14. Bingo Hair Care Argan Oil Shampoo

The Argan Oil Shampoo from Bingo Hair Care removes all dirt, grime, product residue, and daily buildup from smoke, and pollution. It reduces flaking, moisturizes dry scalps, stimulates hair growth, and balances moisture levels.This shampoo contains Moroccan Argan oil rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E, which revitalize skin, improve hair elasticity, and restore hair shine. It also protects the hair from UV rays and other free radicals. Argan oil repairs split ends, rejuvenates flat and dull hair, and improves hair’s overall health and appearance. It coats each hair strand, reducing frizz and fly aways. Pros

Frizz control Paraben-free Sulfate-free Cruelty-free

Cons

Might cause reactions like itching

15. L’Oreal Paris EverCreme Deep Nourishing Shampoo

The Ever Creme Deep Nourishing shampoo from L’Oreal Paris has a mild-formula that cleanses and moisturizes dry and brittle hair. It transforms damaged hair to soft, healthy, and shiny tresses. The lightweight consistency of the shampoo does not weigh down hair. Made with hydrating apricot oil, this shampoo revitalizes and replenishes dry hair. It has an aromatic and fresh fragrance. For best results, pair it with the Ever Creme Deep Nourishing Conditioner and Hair Mask. Pros

Vegan Gluten-free Paraben-free Aromatic Color-safe Gentle

Cons

May cause an allergic reaction

16. Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Fortifying Shampoo

This shampoo is infused with coconut oil and glycerin, which deeply nourish the hair making it smooth and frizz-free. It provides 24-hour frizz control. It makes hair weightless and voluminous. It works well in areas of high humidity. It can also protect hair from heat damage caused by styling tools that reach up to 446 degrees. It does not contain any parabens or sulfates. Pros

Paraben-free Silicone-free Coconut fragrance

 Cons

None

17. Free And Clear Shampoo

The Free And Clear Shampoo does not contain any chemical irritants like dyes, fragrance, lanolin, parabens, formaldehyde, formaldehyde releasers, or other preservatives. It is suitable for all hair types and is pH balanced. It is also dermatologically approved. This shampoo cleanses and hydrates the scalp removing any flakes or scales. It helps regulate excess sebum production in oily scalps. It cleanses the scalp and hair from any product residue or buildup. Pros

No cocamidopropyl betaine Preservative-free Protein-free Phosphate-free Gluten-free pH-balanced

Cons

Has a uncommon odor

18. Carol’s Daughter Wash Day Delight Micellar Shampoo

The Wash Day Delight Micellar Shampoo from Carol’s Daughter cleanses hair without stripping hair of its natural moisture. It is made with rose water and 98% naturally derived ingredients, which gently lather and deep-cleanse the scalp without any harsh friction. It has a target applicator that spreads the liquid shampoo through hair and scalp easily. It reduces tangles and knots in the hair. The shampoo acts like a magnet, attracting and removing any buildup, dirt, or residue to cleanse the scalp and hair. It also contains naturally derived glycerin. Pros

Vegan 1% biodegradable Paraben-free No artificial color Silicone-free

Cons

Not for all hair types

19. Love Beauty And Planet Coconut Oil And Ylang YlangShampoo

This shampoo is made with natural coconut oil and ethically sourced ylang-ylang extract. The coconut oil locks moisture in hair and increases hair shine. The ylang-ylang extract is rich in essential oils known for being very helpful in soothing and cleansing hair. It has some plant-based cleansers that remove any dirt and buildup without stripping hair dry. This shampoo repairs damaged hair by nourishing it, reducing hair breakage, and repairing split ends.It is made with 93% naturally-derived ingredients. Pros

Certified by PETA ascruelty-free and vegan Parabens-free Silicones-free Dyes-free Phthalates-free Coconut fragrance

Cons

Strong scent No lather

20. Alfaparf Milano Keratin Therapy Maintenance Shampoo

This shampoo is enriched with a keratin-collagen complex that cleanses hair thoroughly while preserving the look from chemical hair treatment. It also contains babassu oil which moisturizes the hair making it soft, silky, and smooth. It improves hair manageability by removing tangles. It has a good fragrance and keeps hair frizz-free. It transforms unruly hair into straight velvety smooth locks. Pros

Sulfate-free Paraffin-free Salt-free Paraben-free

Cons

May cause itching in some users

21. Burt’s Bees Very Volumizing Shampoo

repairs and restores flat and dull hair. It is made with pomegranate seed oil and avocado oil. It is gentle on hair and scalp. The pomegranate seed oil is rich in antioxidants which can protect hair from free radical damage. This shampoo reduces and controls frizz. It also improves hair shine and gives hair volume and body. It is made with a 99.6% natural formula. Pros

99% natural No phthalates No parabens No petrolatum No synthetic fragrances

 Cons

Makes hair greasy

22. Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Luscious Moisture Shampoo

Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Shampoo brings moisture and shine to hair. It cleanses hair removing from buildup and grime. It also restores the natural moisture balance without weighing hair down. It makes hair softer and more manageable. It contains aloe juic, and sweet clover. Aloe hydrates your hair to make it healthier. Sweet clover and rose extracts give your hair increased shine. This shampoo has a lovely black vanilla fragrance. Pros

No parabens No artificial color Vanilla fragrance Slicone-free

Cons

Extra sweet fragrance

23. Green+Lovely Tea Tree Shampoo Bar

This shampoo is made with handpicked ingredients that smooth out hair cuticles and increase hair shine and moisture, while gently cleansing the scalp and hair. It is made with jojoba, avocado, coconut, and argan oils. It also contains DL-panthenol which helps control frizz and soften the hair. It contains oat protein which repairs hair breakage and increases hair shine. It has the lovely fragrance of tea tree oil paired with calendula flowers. Pros

Refreshing fragrance Paraben-free Portable shampoo bar Long-lasting

Cons

May not work for all hair types

24. The Yellow Bird Grapefruit, Rosemary And Lavender Shampoo Bar

This shampoo bar is made with Kaolin clay and sea salt to thoroughly remove any buildup and dirt from the scalp and hair. It also contains argan oil and jojoba oil, which hydrate and shield hair from frizz. It is made with trace vitamins and minerals to nourish and care for all hair types. It has a refreshing citrus fragrance of grapefruit with subtle lavender hints. This shampoo bar can also be used as an alternative for scalp psoriasis and dandruff. Pros

Silicone-free Phosphate-free Paraben-free No harsh detergents Cruelty-free, vegan Eco-friendly Unisex product Easily portable

Cons

Expensive

25. Soapbox Coconut OIl Shampoo Bar

This shampoo is made with natural ingredients with a naturally sweet and nutty coconut scent. Its gentle formula is ideal for daily use. It helps protect and repair dry and damaged hair. It increases hair shine and revitalizes hair. It is made with coconut oil which contains vitamins E, K, and fatty acids that fortify and protect hair. This soap bar gives rich lather and leaves your hair feeling soft and residue-free. Pros

Eco-conscious packaging Vegan Paraben-free Cruelty-free Color-safe Silicone-free

Cons

Contains palm oil-derived isopropyl palmitate which may cause allergic reactions in some users

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Vaishnavi Kothuri, is a hair care enthusiast who believes in trying new products that make you feel pampered and luxurious! While most of you might be using your favorite shampoo and cleansers, she is here to urge you to take your hair care a notch higher with sulfate-free shampoos. She has gone through several customer reviews before bringing you the top sulfate-free drugstore shampoos. These add that smooth, silky shine to your hair, and keep it nourished and protected from environmental stressors. They also are easy on your pocket. Is sulfate-free shampoo better for your hair? Yes. Sulfate-free shampoos gently cleanse your hair without leaving your scalp dry. They eliminate dry flakes by moisturizing the hair. Do sulfates cause hair loss? Yes. Sulfates cleanse your hair and suck out the natural oils from your follicles. As a result, the hair strands dry out gradually, leading to increased hair fall. Why does sulfate-free shampoo make hair greasy? Sulfate-free shampoos are infused with mild cleansing agents like coco glucoside that leave your roots oily. Your hair takes time to adjust to the sulfate-free regimen, producing extra oil as a sign of change. What happens when you start using sulfate-free shampoo? Your hair may feel greasy and shiny initially for the first 2-3 weeks when you start using a sulfate-free shampoo. After that, your hair will start feeling cleaner and healthier. Can I use sulfate-free shampoo every day? No. Use a sulfate-free shampoo twice a week to maintain your hair’s healthy shine and texture. Shampooing daily dries out the strands and weakens them. Why does sulfate-free shampoo not lather? Sulfate-free shampoo consists of mild surfactants and lower concentrations of molecules that do not lather much like regular shampoos.

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