Sulfate-free is probably the most buzz-worthy and debated topic in the hair care industry these days. Since people are becoming more health conscious and curious about what goes into the products they put on their skin and hair, sulfates have become a nasty word. That’s the reason beauty and hair care manufacturers from all over the world are striving to provide sulfate free products to their customers. If you walk by a beauty aisle in any supermarket, you’ll come across plenty of sulfate free shampoos to choose from. While most hair care experts recommend sulfate free hair care products, there are many who question its effectiveness. However, the potential risks of using sulfate-laden products and the benefits of switching to sulfate free alternatives are undeniably enormous and enough to convince one that sulfate free is the way to be. But if you feel like your sulfate free shampoo isn’t getting the job done for you, it’s time you reevaluate where you’re going wrong. Here’s our take on how to make the most out of your sulfate free shampoos and use them properly.
Why You Need to Go Sulfate-Free
Before we go into the nitty-gritty details, let’s find out what sulfates are doing to your hair and why you need to ditch them. Sulfates are an inexpensive way of making your shampoos work properly. They act as surfactants to produce foam and cut through the oil and dirt to give you fresh and clean hair. It all sounds good until you start noticing their adverse effects in the long run. The problem arises when these harsh chemicals strip your scalp and hair of their essential oil and nutrients along with grease. Regular use of sulfates may end up in hair damage, scalp inflammation, and even permanent hair loss. So, if you really care about the health of your hair and scalp, you need to look out for hair care products that are sulfate free.
Start with Choosing the Right Sulfate Free Shampoo
We all know how hard it can get to opt for the right shampoo that best suits your hair and meet their particular needs. If you visit a beauty store, you’ll be bombarded with a variety of sulfate free shampoos from hundreds of manufacturers. Although, it’s important to keep in mind that not all sulfate free shampoos are created equal and have the power to make your hair as glossy, soft and healthy as you’d want. We recommend ANSWR sulfate free shampoo, specifically tailored to provide hydration and nourishment to all types of hair. The ANSWR sulfate free shampoo is included in the smoothing treatment kit so you can first smooth your hair and then treat it with sulfate free shampoo and conditioner to prolong the effect of the treatment.
How to Use a Sulfate Free Shampoo
If you’ve decided to get rid of sulfates and selected a sulfate free shampoo for your particular hair type and concerns then congratulations, you’re halfway there. The journey to showstopper locks using sulfate free shampoo starts with the basic step of applying the product correctly. If your shampoo is unable to get your hair clean and shiny, make sure you're following these steps:
Apply Less Product and More Water
Sulfate free shampoos require thoroughly wet hair to work on. If your hair isn’t soaked properly, the shampoo might not spread evenly through your hair and you’ll end up with unclean hair. You’ll be amazed to see the difference this tiny step will make.
Apply the Shampoo Thoroughly
Take a small amount of your sulfate free shampoo and start applying from the back of your scalp. Once you’ve covered the entire back half of your head, squeeze a bit more shampoo and apply to the front half of your scalp. Make sure to cover your ears and sideburns. For heavier and coarser hair, divide your hair into sections to make the application easier and more thorough.
Massage the Shampoo into Your Hair
While your chemical-laden shampoos don’t need much time to remove grime and dirt from your hair, sulfate free shampoos work more efficiently when massaged through your head for a few minutes. Keep massaging your scalp in circular motions for 2-3 minutes to cleanse your hair nicely.
You may find it ridiculous being told to leave the shampoo in your hair for a couple of minutes. While it’s quite true for sulfate shampoos, you don’t have to worry when using a sulfate free shampoo. If you don’t want to massage the shampoo into your scalp, leave it on for about 3 minutes. It will allow your sulfate free shampoo to work wonders.
You Can Shampoo Twice
If your hair is thick, coarse, or greasier than usual, you can apply your sulfate free shampoo twice. The shampoo will foam up and cleanse even better the second time. You can enjoy fresher and cleaner hair for longer by shampooing twice.
Finally, Rinse Your Hair
Rinse your hair properly like you’d do with your sulfate shampoo to make sure the product is removed completely from your hair. Any residue will make your hair look heavy and unclean.
Follow with a Conditioner
Want to step up your hair game to another level? End your hair wash with a sulfate free conditioner. What could be better than ANSWR's sulfate free conditioner? You’ll not only be making your locks shinier and smoother but also protect them from the harsh chemicals used in ordinary conditioners. Leave the conditioner in your hair for a few minutes for best result.
If you’re going cold turkey with your sulfate free shampoo, just take a deep breath and reassess your shampooing process. Finding the right sulfate free shampoo and using it properly will promote bouncier, glossier, and healthier hair. We hope this will help you use your sulfate free hair care products in a better way to reap maximum benefits out of them. Remember that our ANSWR Smoothing Kit comes with sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner which are full of natural ingredients to nourish and moisture your hair.