Did you know even some “clean beauty” shampoos have sulfates? But not all sulfates are equal.
SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) can be the devil for some people who have experienced allergies from it. Allergies can cause hair and scalp issues too.
While others prefer only using SLS shampoos.
My hair looks and feels much better while using SLS-free shampoo.
This is also what Lorraine Massey, founder of the Curly Girl Method, advises.
Stay informed and do what works best for your hair. I’ll say.
Here’s why it’s worth switching to an SLS-free shampoo today.
Is SLS-Free Shampoo Curly Girl (CG) Approved?
No, SLS is not CG-safe.
It strips natural oils, leaving curls dry and prone to breakage. Some also find it harder for curls to clump back together.
Want to check your products? Use the website Is It CG? site to paste your ingredient list and get a quick, clear analysis.
Where Is SLS Found?
Many commercial shampoos like Pantene, WOW, Dove, and Head & Shoulders list SLS in their top ingredients. Some recommend using these “just once a month” for clarifying, but is that really necessary?
You Don’t Need SLS Shampoo to Clarify
Your curls need clarifying to remove buildup, but SLS isn’t the only option.
Safe, natural clarifying alternatives:
- Bentonite Clay Detox
- DIY ACV Rinse (50:50 = water:ACV)
- K18 Detox Shampoo
- SugarBoo Curls Cleansing Shampoo (use code HONESTLIZ for 25% off)
- Manetain Oh So Clean Clarifying Shampoo (use code HONESTLIZ for 10% off, India)
These options remove build-up effectively without the harshness of SLS.
Why Is SLS Bad for Curly Hair?
❌ Found in high concentrations in most shampoos, leading to dry scalp, itching, and hair loss when used frequently.
❌ The American Academy of Dermatology warns that SLS can worsen conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
❌ A 1996 study shows SLS may cause dandruff for sensitive scalps.
❌ TRESemmé’s lawsuit reported scalp burns and hair loss, linked to SLS.
Does SLS Damage Hair?
Curly hair is naturally dry.
Harsh shampoos with SLS increase dryness and breakage.
A 2005 study confirms that hair immersed in sulfate water loses twice the protein compared to plain water.
Hair lacking protein breaks easily and develops split ends.
Is SLS-Free Shampoo Really Better?
The right SLS-free shampoo will cleanse while preserving your natural curl pattern.
Your scalp will feel balanced, and hair fall can reduce.
If you have colored or bleached hair, SLS-free shampoo helps retain moisture and keeps curls healthier.
Can You Use SLS-Free Shampoo Every Day?
The short answer: No.
Frequent washing, even with gentle shampoo, can strip natural oils.
If you need to wash often, use no-poo methods between washes to balance moisture.
Challenges with SLS-Free Shampoos
✅ The wrong sulfate-free shampoo can dry your hair if it doesn’t match your hair type.
✅ Many SLS-free shampoos use plant-derived ingredients. If you have plant or food allergies, check ingredient lists carefully.
✅ Watch for Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and Methylisothiazolinone (MI), common in CG shampoos but has potential skin irritants.
Why Does SLS-Free Shampoo Sometimes Feel Drying?
❌ Protein overload can make hair feel straw-like.
❌ Some experience dryness with aloe-heavy products.
Tip: Shampoos clean hair; don’t expect them to moisturise or give you curls.
Always deep condition and style after using any strong cleanser to restore moisture.
HonestLiz’s Take: I Am SLS-Free
For those of us who prefer to avoid harsh shampoo for regular washes, there are many SLS-free shampoos on the market now.
- Read ingredient labels carefully.
- If your scalp feels itchy or dry after trying a new shampoo, it may not be the right fit for you.
- Switching to SLS-free shampoo that matches your needs.
- Eliminate products, experiment to identify the exact problem for you.
- Even if you prefer using strong shampoos, remember to deep condition.
You Don’t Always Need SLS Shampoo to Remove Buildup – Try this!
Got Questions?
Do you use SLS-free shampoo, or are you planning to switch?
Share your thoughts below—I would love to hear your experience.
Thank you for reading and learning with me!
Need More Help?
✨ Ready to choose the right products for your curls confidently? ✨
Book your 1:1 Curl Coaching Session today, and I’ll help you find the best shampoo and care plan for your curl type.