Sulfates in particular have been the victims of a particularly nasty campaignbut is it warranted?

Meet the Experts

Keep reading to learn the truth about sulfates and whethersulfate shampoosultimately help or harm hair.

What Are Sulfates?

bubbles

Tawni Bannister for BYRDIE

“Sulfates are the detergents responsible for the super-sudsy lather you get out ofmost shampoos,” explains Cleveland.

“Stick to your oiliest and least sensitive areas,” she advises.

“All shampoos strip your hair of natural oil.

bottle of shampoo

Tawni Bannister for BYRDIE

Thats how they clean,” Ewell tells us.

Doing so will ensure you reap the most benefits and avoid over-cleansing.

For most, this involves simply washing hair with shampoo followed by conditioner.

woman with brush

Stocksy / Design by Camden Dechert

According to Farber, “[Sulfates] may cause acne around the hairline when found in shampoo.”

Cleveland adds that sulfates can also cause premature fading of hair color and keratin services.

Plus, if you have super-sensitive skin, the combination of sulfates and synthetic fragrance may cause a rash.

Indian J Dent Res.

Indian Journal of Dermatology.

Shampoo and Conditioners: What a Dermatologist Should Know?