When it comes to hair care, there is an overload of information on what to do, what not to do and especially which products will keep your tresses looking shiny and healthy. If there’s one trend that has become increasingly popular, it is the proclivity towards sulphate-free hair products.
AIC recently launched an exclusive Argan Oil Hair Care Range which includes shampoo, conditioner, treatment and a sulphate-free shampoo. Every product in the range is Paraben-free and fortified with vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
Trending Basics
Why jump on the bandwagon? Well, even if you don’t believe in buying into the latest hair trends, you will be surprised by all the benefits, no matter your customer’s hair type.
The science behind sulphate-free hair care may just turn you into a believer after all?
Sulphates and Why You Should Avoid It
Sulphates, also spelt sulfates in some parts of the world, are synthetic ingredients added to shampoos to make them foam up. It helps to remove dirt and oil from your hair. However, it has been found that sulphates cause hair to become dry and more brittle; sulphates are anionic surfactants leaving your hair with a negative electric charge which increases friction and frizz. This is because it removes the natural oils from the hair shafts, leading to damaged hair.
The three most frequently-found sulphate compounds in hair care products are sodium laureth sulphate, sodium lauryl sulphate, and ammonium laureth sulphate. Each of these chemicals carries a different level of intensity, but they are still equally damaging to your hair.
Some people believe that sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners are only necessary if you have an irritated scalp, sensitive skin, or if your hair is particularly dry, but many hair experts and especially dermatologists, encourage the use of sulphate-free shampoo as the best option for your hair, because it gently cleanses your hair.
Sulphated shampoos may also strip away the natural oils from the scalp, which can lead to dandruff. Dandruff is a build-up of dead skin cells on the scalp. It is caused by the natural oils removed from the scalp using sulphate-rich shampoos. This can cause an increase in the amount of flakes and can even lead to a form of psoriasis.
Sulphate-free shampoo is also recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) for people with rosacea.
Rosacea is a common skin condition that causes blushing or flushing and visible blood vessels on your face. It may also produce small, pus-filled bumps.
Rosacea not only leads to symptoms on your scalp but can also present on your face, shoulders, and back.
Science and Ingredients
The science behind sulphate-free shampoos is that they should be used to cleanse the hair.
Sulphate-free shampoos gently cleanse the scalp. When you use a sulphate-free shampoo, you are only washing the hair. You don’t need to rub or massage the scalp with water.
Another reason a sulphate-free shampoo will help keep your hair healthy is because it usually contains natural ingredients. The natural ingredients are made from plants and are known as botanicals. They help to protect your hair and prevent further damage from happening.
If you have curly locks, sulphate-free is the best way for healthy maintenance. Since curly hair dries out faster than straight hair, sulphates can dehydrate curls, leading to breakage.
Sulphate Containing Shampoos
Shampoos with sulphates are a good choice when there is product buildup in your hair or when your hair is exposed to pollution or dust. Naturally, oily hair also benefits from using shampoos with sulphates.
Sulphate-Free On the Daily
Can you use sulphate-free shampoo daily, and what happens when you switch to sulphate-free shampoo?
Sulphate-free shampoo can be used daily and will give you a feeling of clean, healthier hair that is not stripped of moisture. This is because you’ll have a healthier scalp with balanced oil production.
People with dry scalps will generally find that their scalps are more moisturised (not oily), while people with oilier scalps will benefit from the fact that their excessive oil production will be reduced over time.
AIC’s Sulphate-Free Offering
Now that you know why sulphate-free hair products should be your customer’s preference, why should you invest in AIC’s sulphate-free shampoos?
AIC’s research team carefully manufactures formulations on behalf of their clients for hair care (and personal care) products as a contract manufacturer. Their on-site laboratory tests every raw material, formulation, and final product for conformity, guaranteeing consistency.
Our professional sulphate-free shampoo formulas leave out harsh cleansing agents. They lock in moisture, prevent colour from fading, and are less likely to irritate a sensitive scalp. Used with AIC’s wholesome, nourishing conditioner and hair treatments, your customer’s locks will be left with excellent texture and improved strength and resilience.
Expert products matter to the experts. Reach out to an AIC sales executive to discuss our sulphate-free range.
You can quickly sign up for our blog and receive updates and news in your inbox. Learn about sales, new products and new formulations