As with many natural products, switching to plant-based, sulfate-free shampoo can be a complicated journey for many. Perhaps you’re just starting this journey — or maybe you’ve tried 3 or 5 or 15 different sulfate-free shampoos only to find that your hair feels off or your scalp is oily right after cleansing. You’re not alone. But we have you covered with our guide to switching to sulfate-free shampoo. Read below for everything you need to know to make the switch.

What are sulfates?
Sulfates make your shampoo lather, creating the suds that we’ve come to love and equate with that fresh, clean feel in the shower. More technically, sulfates are surfactants and they cleanse your hair, removing build up, dirt and dead skin cells from your scalp.

Why should you consider using sulfate-free hair products?
While sulfates admittedly do a great job of cleansing your hair and removing dirt and grime that builds up over time, they can also strip your hair of some of its natural oils. Sulfate-free shampoos are growing in popularity, as many people want to maintain the natural oils that their scalp produces. People with a sensitive scalp, curly hair, dry hair and color-treated hair may particularly benefit from sulfate-free shampoos.

How do I know if my shampoo contains sulfates?
Regardless of what products you’re purchasing, we always strongly recommend reading your labels! There are three types of sulfates commonly used in beauty and personal care products: sodium laureth sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, and ammonium laureth sulfate.

What happens when you switch to sulfate-free shampoo?
In general, switching to sulfate-free shampoo is relatively easy once you know how to adjust your shower routine. Some people notice their hair feels different or their scalp gets oily when they switch to sulfate free shampoo. Most often these changes are related to how you’re using sulfate free shampoos, so read below to find out how to use them correctly!

How do I use sulfate-free shampoo?
There are a few simple changes that will help get you the best results:

1. Wet hair. Sulfate-free shampoos work best when the hair is fully saturated with water. Start by getting your hair very wet and ensure the water has soaked all the way down to the roots.
2. Apply the shampoo to your hair, prioritizing with the scalp and working your way down to the ends of your hair. Less is more – some people use too much product thinking it will clean their hair better. This can make it difficult to thoroughly rinse the product from your hair and scalp. Note: some sulfate-free shampoos may not lather as much as a traditional shampoo, but don’t worry — it’s still cleansing your hair.
3. Massage into scalp: You may need to give yourself some extra time to massage your scalp, especially if you have a lot of grime and build-up on your scalp. Pro tip: handheld scalp massagers offer a nice luxe shower experience and help ensure your shampoo is evenly applied to your scalp.
4. Rinse, rinse and rinse again! Ensure all product is thoroughly rinsed from your hair and scalp. Unlike traditional shampoos, sulfate-free shampoos need a more thorough rinse to ensure best results. They often contain natural oils to cleanse the hair; you want to ensure that all product is rinsed from your hair to avoid feeling a waxy build-up or oily scalp.
5. Condition. Choose a clean conditioner to apply to your hair. Focus on the ends and work your way up to the scalp and rinse thoroughly.

Why choose Each & Every shampoo & conditioner?
Ready to make the switch? Each & Every has you covered with our Reviving Shampoo and Restoring Conditioner. Our shampoo gently cleanses and renews moisture for soft hair and a healthy shine and our conditioner hydrates and strengthens hair against breakage for strong, luscious locks. Both products are free of sulfates, silicones, parabens, phthalates, artificial fragrance and artificial dyes. Despite being sulfate free, the shampoo has an amazing lather and is suitable for all hair types. You can find them in two of our most popular, essential oil-based scents: Lavender & Lemon and Coconut & Lime.