25 Best Sulfate-Free Drugstore Shampoos
These new sulfate-free shampoos may be less foamy but are a pro at cleansing your hair!

Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Are you looking for a shampoo that is pocket-friendly and yet safe? Well, you have to try the best drugstore sulfate-free shampoo. Without the harsh cleansing ingredient sulfate, true, they will produce less foam, but they will also not make your hair dry or brittle. So, you will get smooth, clean hair with a gentle shampoo. Check out our list of the 25 best sulfate-free drugstore shampoos below!
In This Article
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
Hair Type | All, Wavy, Curly, Chemically Treated, Thick, Dandruff, Thin |
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
Hair Type | Oily, Fine, Normal, Textured, Straight All, Wavy, Curly, Chemically Treated, Thick, Dandruff, Thin |
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
Hair Type | Textured, Curly, Wavy, Relaxed, Coiled |
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
Hair Type | Textured, Frizzy, Wavy, Fine, Thick |
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
Hair Type | All, Dandruff,Color-treated,Thin |
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
Hair Type | Dry |
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
Hair Type | Wavy, Curly, Thick, Coily, Textured |
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 For Humidity Protection: Redken Frizz Dismiss Shampoo
Hair Type | All |
The Redken Frizz Dismiss Shampoo offers silky and lustrous locks. Its sulfate-free formula protects your hair from pollution and sun damage. It contains babassu oil that helps detangle and remove frizz while increasing the shine and smoothness of your tresses. It is suitable for most hair types due to its gentle-cleansing properties. You can also pair the shampoo with the Redken Frizz Dismiss Conditioner for the best results.
Pros
- Offers humidity protection
- Smooths hair
- Anti-frizz properties
- Sodium chloride-free
- Pleasant fragrance
Cons
- May not be that great for thicker curls
9. Best Hypoallergenic:Dayspa Body Basics Lemongrass Shampoo Bar
Hair Type | Oily, Dry, Normal |
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: Hair Food Nourishing Shampoo
Hair Type | Multicultural |
The Hair Food Nourishing Shampoo rejuvenates your dull and dry hair while promoting hair growth. The glycerin content in the formula hydrates your hair and the sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate, derived from coconut, gently cleanses dirt and grease. The mild fragrance of chai spice engulfs you in a relieving and luxurious shower experience. You can use it on color-treated hair for delicate cleansing. This shampoo also makes your hair soft and boosts nourishment in your tresses.
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- Controls excess oil
- Color-safe
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Mineral oil-free
Cons
None
11. Aveeno Pure Renewal Shampoo
Hair Type | All,Color-treated,Chemically-treated |
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
Hair Type | All, Color-treated, Curly, Dry, Damaged |
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
Hair Type | Color-treated |
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. Maui Moisture Thicken & Restore Shampoo
Hair Type | Curly |
Over styling can often lead to hair damage, but the Maui Moisture Thicken & Restore Shampoo helps you repair your mismanaged hair. Its blend of exotic fibers and nourishing castor prevents breakage and renews hair. The anti-bacterial neem oil improves scalp health while rejuvenating hair follicles for healthy-looking locks. It is ideal for color-treated and curly hair. Its restorative formula uses aloe extracts and coconut water to replenish dull and frizzy hair and does not tug while combing.
Pros
- Anti-bacterial formula
- Offers volume
- Anti-frizz protection
- Softens hair
- Silicone-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Vegan
- Suitable for color-treated hair
Cons
- The scent may be strong for some
15. L’Oreal Paris EverCreme Deep Nourishing Shampoo
Hair Type | Dry,Color-treated |
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
Hair Type | Dry, Curly |
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
Hair Type | All, Sensitive skin |
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
Hair Type | Curly, Kinky, Coily |
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
Hair Type | Chemically-treated, Color-treated, Dry, Damaged |
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
Hair Type | Normal |
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. OGX Renewing Argan Oil Of Morocco Shampoo
Hair care is made simple by the OGX Renewing Argan Oil Of Morocco Shampoo. It comprises mild ingredients and nourishing cold-pressed argan oil. Its vitamin E-enriched supercharged antioxidants prevent premature graying, offering a long-lasting gorgeous look to your tresses. The sulfate-free formula protects and gently hydrates your hair. The regular usage of the shampoo makes your hair softer and provides an alluring shine. This moisturizing shampoo makes the tresses radiant, fluffy, and super smooth. It is suitable for dry, dull, straight, and curly, thick tresses.
Pros
- Moisturizing formula
- Antioxidant properties
- Prevents premature graying
- Long-lasting results
- Controls frizz
- Paraben-free
Cons
None
22. Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Luscious Moisture Shampoo
Hair Type | Dry, Curly, Natural |
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
Hair Type | Color-treated |
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
Hair Type | Oily, Dry, Dandruff, Thin |
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
Hair Type | Dry |
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
Infographic: How To Apply A Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Sulfate-free shampoos offer the same deep cleaning power as regular shampoos without the harsh side effects. While they may not produce as much foam, they will not leave your hair dull or dried up. Below is an infographic with instructions on how to use a sulfate-free shampoo. Check it out!

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Drugstore shampoos have really made hair care quite affordable. They are chosen by many women due to their affordability and safe usage. “Sulfate-free shampoos are known to cause build up on their own as well. If you are noticing build up, incorporate a clarifying shampoo or switch to sulfate-free shampoos.” says cosmetologist, Lindsay Loo. There are many drugstore shampoos that are strictly devoid of harmful substances like parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. These shampoos help in removing excess oil, dirt, and other impurities from your hair while cleansing your tresses to their very core. Sulfate-free shampoos also help in avoiding itchiness, flakiness, or excessive hair fall. You might also want to look for products that come with anti-frizz features.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.