"No Sulphates" is not an ingredient but a formulation label indicating the absence of sulphate-based surfactants such as sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES), which are common cleansing and foaming agents. Sulphate-free products typically use milder surfactants and are marketed as gentler for sensitive skin, dry skin, and colour-treated or chemically processed hair.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reduced cleansing or lather sensation | Common | Milder alternative surfactants may produce less foam and feel less cleansing to some users, though this is a sensory rather than safety concern. |
| Irritation or sensitivity to replacement surfactants | Uncommon | Some sulphate-free surfactants (e.g., cocamidopropyl betaine) can themselves cause irritation or allergy in susceptible individuals. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Reported in relation to specific alternative surfactants or other formulation components rather than the absence of sulphates itself. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.