Hair Care

How to Get the Hair of Your Dreams? Ditch Your Shampoo

Anti-shampoo advocates say the secret to glossier, healthier hair is going suds-free. Here, the best ways -- and products -- to do it

by Allie Flinn | 1 COMMENT

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The Method: Non-Foaming Shampoo What It is: "This is simply shampoo without the added chemical that causes the foaming action," explains McMichael. Francis says that Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Ammonia Lauryl Sulfate are the two most common surfectants used in shampoo, but they can be just as irritating to sensitive skin as strong soap or fragrance. Non-foaming and sulfate-free shampoos are considered less damaging to your hair, because they don't contain harsh chemicals that can strip your hair of natural oils, says Nussbaum.

Tips: According to Nussbaum, you shouldn't wash your hair on a daily basis. "The drier your hair, the less you should wash."

But, you also can't forget about your scalp. Because sulfate-free shampoo is gentler, it doesn't remove as much dirt and oil as one with sulfates. Francis says this can lead to scalp inflammation, so you may have to shampoo your hair more frequently with a sulfate-free shampoo to ensure your scalp is free of product buildup.

Look for sulfate-free shampoos with any of the following ingredients: disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, sodium cocoyl isethionate, sodium lauroyl sulfoacetate, decyl glucoside, coco-betaine. Bova says these are all gentle cleansers.

Try:

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo: In lieu of sulfates, this shampoo uses the brand's patented OFPMA molecule to cleanse hair. It's also paraben- and silicone-free.

Kerastase Chroma Sensitive: This gentle cleansing balm was designed with color-treated hair in mind.

Alterna Caviar Anti-Aging Replenishing Moisture Shampoo: For dry, damaged hair, this shampoo contains a blend of algae and seaweed to repair and hydrate.

SEE NEXT PAGE: The Method: Cleansing Conditioner

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