25 Best Sulfate-Free Drugstore Shampoos
These new sulfate-free shampoos may be less foamy but are a pro at cleansing your hair!
Lindsay Loo is a cosmetologist who has spent 10 years behind the chair in a storied salon in Chelsea. She is a certified Wella Master Color Expert and also has experience backstage at New York Fashion Week.
Read full bio of Lindsay Loo
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
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! All these products are selected after a thorough analysis of reviews and formulations.
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 to soothe 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, improves manageability, shine, and softness. It controls and smoothens frizz, making hair silky and soft. This effective product increases curl definition too making it suitable for wavy hair as well as natural hair. This shampoo contains Vitamin E which permeates the hair cuticle, strengthening the hair from within to make it thicker and younger-looking. Additionally, this product is not tested on animals.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Phothalate-free
- No sodium chloride
- UV protection
- Recommended by hair stylists
Cons
- Has added fragrance
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 861 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
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. This classic shampoo also increases hair shine, reduces frizz, and boosts hair and scalp health. This great-smelling sulfate-free shampoo leaves hair with a refreshing citrusy green apple fragrance. It does not contain any chemicals, silicones, dyes, parabens, sulfates, or harsh preservatives making it ideal for hair that has undergone color treatment. It is also suitable for natural hair and straight hair. 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 improve hair elasticity and shine. It minimizes hair dullness into bouncy and healthy locks. This dermatologist-tested 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. The salon quality product has deep cleaning agents that cleanse the hair. 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. It is ideal for natural hair, wavy hair, and straight hair and is available for an affordable price.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- No artificial color
Cons
- Strong scent
"This product soothes my irritated scalp. It lathers up nicely and leaves a refreshing feeling. I like its pleasant scent as it does not overwhelm me. It enhances overall hair health without weighing down my strands."
Quick TipPure Nature Argan Oil Deep Nourishing Shampoo Best For UV Protection | Phillip Adam Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo Best Color-Safe Formula | Girl+Hair Cleanser Best For Scalp Cleansing | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Frizzy, Color Treated, Dry, Curly, Damaged | Oily, textured, Fine, Normal, Straight | All, Color Treated, Chemically Treated, Fine, Thick |
| Package Dimensions | 7.32 x 3.07 x 2.99 inches | - | - |
| Weight | 1.19 Pounds | 12 Ounces | 10.08 Ounces |
| Dimensions | - | 2.63 x 2.63 x 6.25 inches | 2.1 x 2.1 x 8.4 inches |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 861 | 84 | 480 |
| Price | $15.99 | $17.99 | $13.99 |
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 non-irritating formula of shampoo enhances hair structure while making it soft, healthy, and manageable. It contains Vitamin B5, which enters the hair cuticle. It helps minimize hair static, control frizz, increases curl definition, enhances smoothness and shine and prevents scalp irritation. It helps revitalize dull hair and is also suitable for textured hair that has undergone color treatment. It does not contain any other harsh chemicals that may cause skin irritation, hair loss, or hair damage. This great-smelling sulfate-free shampoo has a lovely orange creamsicle fragrance. Check this video to explore a tester’s experience with the product.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Not tested on animals
- 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. This lightweight formula 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 and helps keep the scalp clean. It reduces hair loss, treats dandruff, and promotes the growth of strong hair. It is made with an advanced formulation containing broad-spectrum DHT blockers, like pumpkin seed oil. This vegan formula 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. Many reviewers felt that their hair became bouncy and light after using this product.
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
Pro Tip6. 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
"This sulfate-free shampoo leaves my hair feeling soft without any frizz or dryness. The coconut scent is mild but isn't my favorite. The product offers smoothing and shine-enhancing qualities, suitable even for my fine hair."
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. This herbal shampoo 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. They act as conditioning agents. 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. This sulfate-free option is also available for an affordable price.
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. This sulfate-free option contains babassu oil that helps detangle, remove frizz, improves hair texture while increasing the shine and smoothness of your tresses. It is suitable for most hair types due to its gentle-cleansing properties. Pair this professional-grade 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
"After giving the anti-frizz shampoo a try, I've noticed my hair feels softer. It has a rich lather that gives a luxurious feel. I find the scent subtle and pleasant."
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 making it the ideal choice for oily hair types. 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. Many reviewers loved the fragrance of the shampoo bar and they feel refreshed after using it.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan
- Eco-friendly
- TSA-friendly
- Cruelty-free
- Allergen-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfates-free
- Petrochemicals-free
Cons
- Might weigh hair down
"The shampoo bar is a major part of my hair care routine now. I like its effectiveness at cleansing the hair and scalp oiliness. The refreshing scent of lemongrass is a hit. It's also good for travels and brings a surprising bonus as a mosquito repellent!"
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 this breakthrough 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 sulfate-free option 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.Best Weightless Formula: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. It is also available for an affordable price. Take a look at this video to explore a tester’s experience with this product.
Pros
- Color-safe
- Gentle formula
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 2,562 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
12.Best Plant-Based: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 and minimizes dryness. 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 and is suitable for oily hair types.
Pros
- pH-balanced
- Sulfate-free
- No sodium chloride
- Paraben-free
- No artificial fragrance
- Soothing rosemary fragrance
Cons
- May not work for all hair types
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 3,266 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
13.Best For Color-Treated: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
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 5,062 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
14.Best For Healthy-Looking Locks: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 reduces breakage and renews hair. The anti-bacterial neem oil promotes 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 that protects hair color and replenishes 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
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 5,927 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
15.Best Lightweight: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 this scientifically-proven shampoo does not weigh down the hair. Made with nourishing ingredients like apricot oil, this shampoo revitalizes and replenishes dry hair. This paraben-free shampoo 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.Best Sulfates Free: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. This paraben-free shampoo 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.Best Dermatologically Approved: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 and brings the perfect balance the scalp requires. It cleanses the scalp and hair from any product residue or buildup.
Pros
- No cocamidopropyl betaine
- Preservative-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Protein-free
- Phosphate-free
- Gluten-free
- pH-balanced
Cons
- Has a uncommon odor
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 1,611 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
18.Best For Deep-Cleansing: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.Best Non-Drying: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 non-drying 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
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 6,815 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
20.Best Collagen Complex: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 reduces hair frizz. 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.Best Sulfate-Free Formula: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 antioxidant protection prevents 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.Best Hydrating: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. This highly moisturizing sulfate-free shampoo 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
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 502 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
23.Best For Hair Breakage: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
"This shampoo lathers generously and leaves hair feeling clean and voluminous. I often use it because its scent does not overwhelm my sensitive nose. Moreover, it is easy to wash off and does not leave behind any greasiness."
24.Best For Dandruff: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. This highly moisturizing sulfate-free shampoo also contains nourishing ingredients like 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. This great-smelling sulfate-free shampoo 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
"This bar shampoo has left my hair looking vibrant and feeling very soft, even with my dyes and treatments. I like its minimalistic packaging, feels like doing my bit toward environmental consciousness. The lather is good, the scent is pleasant, and it also lasts me months."
25.Best For Everyday Wear: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
"This shampoo bar makes ample lather and has a pleasant scent. It's quite convenient for travel and provides a thorough clean, leaving the hair with a soft, voluminous feel."
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
The Bottom Line
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. Many drugstore shampoos are strictly devoid of harmful substances like parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. The Pure Nature Argan Oil Deep Nourishing Shampoo is a great formula to get hydrated locks, while the Phillip Adam Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo offers a deep cleanse and is safe for both oily and colored-hair. However, if you want to tone down the frizz, try the Redken Frizz Dismiss Shampoo. 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 containing clinically tested ingredients if you have a sensitive scalp. Additionally, ensure that the formula helps reduce excess frizz.
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.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Krati Darak, 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.
Read full bio of Lindsay Loo
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.