"Sulphate free" is not a single ingredient but a formulation label indicating that a cleanser or shampoo avoids harsh sulphate surfactants (such as sodium lauryl sulphate and sodium laureth sulphate) in favour of milder alternatives. These formulations aim to reduce skin and scalp irritation and limit stripping of natural lipids.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin or scalp irritation | Rare | Milder than sulphate-based cleansers; irritation depends on the substitute surfactants used. |
| Contact allergy or sensitisation | Rare | Possible reaction to specific replacement surfactants or other formulation components. |
| Insufficient cleansing or residue feel | Uncommon | Some users perceive reduced lather or incomplete removal of heavy product buildup. |
| Dryness | Rare | Can still occur depending on the overall formulation, though generally gentler than sulphates. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.