A trusty shampoo can make all the difference between a good hair day and a bad one. But while most cleansers promote a healthy, balanced scalp, there is one popular ingredient that has become a bit controversial: sulfates. "Sulfates are cleansing agents that make it easier to cleanse away oils and buildup," explains Justin Toves-Vincilione, a hairstylist based in Los Angeles. They're also responsible for the "rich lather that we’re so used to experiencing when washing our hair," he says.
However, many hair types find the ingredient does the job too well, leading to drier strands. (Sulfates are found in shampoos, but also body washes, detergents and toothpaste to keep things squeaky clean.) All this to say, sulfate-free shampoos have become more popular in recent years for cleansing without stripping away natural oils. If you're interested in adding one to your routine, keep reading for our hand-selected picks.
