What To Expect When You Shift To Sulfate-Free Shampoo, From A Scalp Expert

Making the switch to cleaner beauty products isn't always easy, especially when it comes to hair care. One of the most notable shifts is moving toward a sulfate-free wash routine. However, this transition is often met with confusion given the starkly different experience. 

Before we start, we should add that sulfates aren't necessarily bad for everyone, but they can throw off your scalp's natural microbiome balance. So if you can skip them, it's worth trying.

Many people say sulfate-free shampoos don't make you feel as clean, but that's probably because of the significantly lower level of suds. "Sulfates are salts formed from the reaction of sulfuric acid with other chemicals, so they act like a detergent and are the reason why your shampoo is foamy," Yates explains. 

However, that same detergent-style wash is what can make your hair feel dry and brittle. 

One of the best parts about using sulfate-free shampoo is that it helps extend your time between washes without becoming oily quickly. However, it'll take some time for that change to happen. 

"It might take a little time for your hair and scalp to adjust; typically, this is about six washes," Yates says. 

Finally, you'll likely find some relief from scalp irritation. Yates explains that sulfates can be particularly damaging for anyone with sensitive skin, eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, or other inflammatory skin conditions. 

Another bonus: Your eyes will likely be less irritated as well, given that sulfates can easily create that burning sensation when a bit of shampoo travels off your scalp. 

Give your hair at least six washes to adjust and utilize tools, like leave-in products and clarifying shampoos, in the meantime. 

Switching to a sulfate-free shampoo may take a slight adjustment period. On the journey, you may notice that your shampoo doesn't foam up as much and your hair may become greasier at first, but your scalp will also start to feel less irritated.