For those who want to avoid harsh chemicals and embrace a more natural approach to hair care, we have put together a list of the best sulfate and silicone-free shampoos. Each shampoo on our curated list provides a unique blend of nourishing ingredients that cleanse, condition, and revitalize your hair without stripping away its natural oils or causing unnecessary damage.

From hydrating and smoothing to volumizing and clarifying, these shampoos cater to various hair types and concerns.Discover the benefits of going sulfate-free and silicon-free as you explore the top-rated shampoos specially curated as per our expertise. Embrace the natural beauty of your hair while enjoying the peace of mind that comes with using products that prioritize your hair's health and vitality.

Our contributor Kristle Jones, a licensed cosmetologist, says, “When we think of something that has silicone, a shiny surface may come to mind. This is exactly why this ingredient is in many hair products. However, this ingredient can build up over time on the scalp and hair. It can cause clogged hair follicles, which leads to hair loss and thinning and it can cause weak breakage-prone hair after a period of time.”

Silicones are a type of synthetic ingredient commonly found in hair products. They create a coating on the hair shaft, providing a smooth and shiny appearance. This coating helps to seal the hair cuticle, reducing frizz, enhancing manageability, and providing heat protection. However, over time, silicones can build up on the hair, leading to product residue and potential dullness. Sulfates, on the other hand, are cleansing agents found in many shampoos. They create a lathering effect that helps to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from the hair and scalp. However, sulfates can be harsh and strip the hair of its natural oils, resulting in dryness, frizz, and potential damage, particularly for those with sensitive or dry hair.

 

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  BEST OVERALL

  Biolage Color Last Shampoo

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Biolage Color Last Shampoo is a product designed to gently cleanse and maintain the color depth, tone, and shine of color-treated hair.It is formulated with orchid formulas with low pH to help prolong color vibrancy for up to 20 washes.The shampoo is essential for maintaining colored hair health and repairing hair damage.It protects hair from environmental damage and strengthens hair while hydrating.Moreover, the orchid extract in the formula helps in maintaining colored hair health and repairing hair damage.

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BEST for Brittle Hair

Pureology Hydrate Sheer Nourishing Shampoo

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Pureology Hydrate Sheer Shampoo deeply hydrates fine, dry hair, providing superior replenishment and touchable softness.It is formulated with key ingredients such as Jojoba, Green Tea, and Sage, which help to nourish and moisturize the hair.This  sulfate paraben and silicone free shampoo is specially formulated for color-treated hair, providing extraordinary color protection. helps to maintain the vibrancy and longevity of your hair color.It cleanses the hair without stripping away its natural oils, leaving it clean, soft, and manageable.

3

BEST for Oily scalp and Itchy Scalp

Nexxus Color Assure Sulfate-Free Shampoo

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Nexxus Color Assure Sulfate-Free Shampoo is a product designed for color-treated hair. It is infused with an exclusive ProteinFusion™ blend with Elastin Protein and Quinoa, which helps to enhance color vibrancy and guarantee long-lasting color for up to 40 washes.It is gentle on hair and won't strip away color or natural oils.This shampoo cleanses color-treated hair and helps replenish nutrients to help enhance color vibrancy. This sulfate and silicon free shampoo is a great choice for those with color-treated hair who want to maintain their color vibrancy for long.

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Best for Brittle Hair

Garnier Hair Care Fructis Triple Nutrition Curl Nourish Shampoo

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Garnier Hair Care Fructis Triple Nutrition Curl Nourish Shampoo is a sulfate-free and silicone-free shampoo that is designed to gently cleanse curly hair without stripping it of its natural oils.The sulfate and silicone-free shampoo is formulated with a blend of coconut, jojoba, and macadamia oils that work together to provide instant moisture to the hair, leaving it feeling soft and supple.It is formulated to resist frizz and provide perfectly defined waves, curls, and coils.

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BEST for frizzy hair

COLOR WOW Color Security Shampoo

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Color Wow Color Security Shampoo is a sulfate-free shampoo that guarantees a 100% clean, completely residue-free wash.Unlike traditional shampoos that leave unwanted ingredients on your hair and scalp, this shampoo ensures nothing lingers after rinsing, leaving you with the cleanest, freshest, healthiest hair and scalp possible.The formula is made with a unique blend of 8 non-stripping cleansers that keep the cuticle smooth and closed, preventing color fade even after 20 washes.It includes a super gentle Japanese amino acid that helps produce a rich, creamy lather.This shampoo is perfect for all hair types, including color-treated hair, and safeguards against color fade.

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BEST for Sensitive scalp

Noughty 97% Natural Detox Dynamo Clarifying Shampoo

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Noughty 97% Natural Detox Dynamo Clarifying Shampoo is a hair wash that deeply cleanses the scalp and hair to purify and remove residue.It is designed to remove build-up and residue caused by urban pollution, hard water, chlorine, or styling products.The shampoo contains detoxifying peppermint and sorrel leaf extracts that help to gently cleanse, purify, and remove build-up, leaving hair feeling fresh and clean.The formula is 97% natural and contains carefully curated natural ingredients that help to gently cleanse and clarify hair that's struggling with build-up.

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BEST for Dry Scalp and Scalp Irritation

Carol's Daughter Wash Day Delight

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Carol's Daughter Wash Day Delight is a collection of sulfate-free hair care products that are infused with aloe and rose water. The collection includes a shampoo, conditioner, and other hair care products.The shampoo free of sulfates, silicones and parabens is designed to deeply cleanse the hair without stripping it of its natural oils. It is 97% biodegradable and quickly rinses out of the hair.The conditioner is a unique jelly-to-cream formula that instantly moisturizes hair from roots to ends and minimizes tangles.The  liquid formula provides easy scalp access as it instantly flows through hair and transforms into a gentle foam lather without harsh friction.The products is designed to leave the scalp feeling clean and the hair feeling soft, smooth, and easy to manage.

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Best for damaged hair

Love Beauty and Planet Blooming Color Sulfate-Free Shampoo

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Love Beauty and Planet Blooming Color Sulfate-Free Shampoo is designed to provide a healthy shine, cleanse, prevent fading, and nourish color-treated hair.It is formulated with Murumuru Butter and Rose, and is vegan, paraben-free, silicone-free, cruelty-free, and phthalate-free.The shampoo is made with plant-based cleansers and infused with natural coconut oil for deeper hydration.It helps to nourish and hydrate color-treated hair and is 100% biodegradable.Moreover, to provide with a pleasant fragnance experience to their customers, the team hand picks the rose petal themselves.

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KERATIN SAFE FORMULA

Kristin Ess Hair The One Purple Shampoo

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The sulfate-free One Purple Shampoo by Kristin Ess Hair is an excellent option for blondes and brunettes seeking toning benefits. It effectively tones both natural and color-treated hair using ultra-violet pigments, all while providing gentle cleansing. Whether you desire ashy tones or even pastel lavender hues, this shampoo is suitable for your preferences and can be used with every wash. Moreover, The One Purple Shampoo not only tones your hair but also nourishes it. Enriched with nourishing elements like avocado oil and shea butter, it deeply hydrates and conditions your locks, resulting in soft, silky, and healthy hair. These ingredients additionally contribute to minimizing damage and enhancing the overall texture of your hair.

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CARBON NEUTRAL

Maui Moisture Shine + Awapuhi Moisturizing Vegan Shampoo

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Maui Moisture Shine + Awapuhi Moisturizing Vegan Shampoo is a lightweight shampoo that is designed to detangle and nourish dry hair while cleansing it. The shampoo is blended with Awapuhi and Coconut Oil, which work together to provide a luxurious tropical experience.It is also sulfate-free, which means it is gentle on the hair and scalp.The shampoo is formulated with 100% aloe vera as a base, which helps to hydrate and soothe the scalp.

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Ingreendients Sulfate Free Vegan Shampoo

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Ingreendients Sulfate Free Vegan Shampoo is a gentle and safe shampoo that is suitable for all hair types.It is made with organic ingredients, including apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil, and is biodegradable, color safe, and silicone-free.The shampoo is also pH balanced, gluten-free, and suitable for sensitive skin and scalp.In addition to being sulfate-free, the shampoo is also free from other harsh chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.

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BOTANIST BOTANICAL SHAMPOO

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BOTANIST Botanical Shampoo (Moist) is a high-quality shampoo that is formulated with gentle components to wash the hair without causing irritation.It is composed of more than 90% plant-derived ingredients and clean water, making it friendly to both humans and the environment.The shampoo is designed to provide moisture to the hair, keeping it hydrated and healthy.One of the key features of this shampoo is its delightful scent, which leaves the hair smelling fresh and fragrant.This replenishing formula boosts moisture levels in the hair, leaving it soft, smooth, and manageable. With its gentle yet effective formula, BOTANIST Botanical Shampoo (Moist) is suitable for the whole family. It is a reliable choice for those looking for a shampoo that not only cleanses the hair but also keeps it moisturized and healthy.

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SEEN Skin Caring Shampoo

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SEEN Skin-Caring Shampoo is a gentle and effective shampoo that is designed to be good for both hair and skin. It is formulated without sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, dyes, pore-clogging oils, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, cocamidopropyl betaine, or gluten, making it safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. The silicon and sulfate free shampoo is also color-safe and keratin-safe, making it suitable for use on color-treated and keratin-treated hair. It is vegan and cruelty-free. The shampoo features a plant-derived, sulfate-free surfactant that provides luxurious lather that rinses easily without leaving the hair or scalp feeling stripped. It is available in a fragrance-free version.

Choosing the ideal sulfate- and silicone-free shampoo for your hair involves several considerations to ensure you meet your specific hair needs while avoiding potentially harmful ingredients. Here's a detailed guide to help you make the right choice:

1. Identify Your Hair Type and Concerns: Start by understanding your hair type (e.g., curly, straight, oily, dry) and any specific concerns (e.g., dandruff, frizz, color-treated hair). Your hair type and concerns will guide your choice.

2. Clean Ingredients: Look for shampoos that explicitly state they are sulfate-free and silicone-free on the label. Sulfates (like sodium lauryl sulfate) can strip natural oils, while silicones can create buildup. Ditch harmful ingredients with artificial frangrances and opt for a healthy ingredients list that enhances healthy hair growth. Frtui extracts, botanical extracts, flower extracts, fatty acids, jojoba oils, coconut milk, citric acid and rice protein to keep your hair clean. 

3. Check for Other Harmful Ingredients: Avoid shampoos with parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, as these can be harsh on the hair and scalp. Try to avoid common ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Chloride and Sodium Laureth Sulfate

 that can damage your hair texture over time. 

4. Determine Your Cleansing Needs: If you have an oily scalp, you may prefer a clarifying sulfate-free shampoo to remove excess oil. For dry hair, choose a moisturizing sulfate-free option.

5. Consider Specialized Shampoos:If you have specific concerns (e.g., dandruff or color-treated hair), look for sulfate- and silicone-free shampoos designed for these issues.

6. Assess Your Fragrance Preferences:Some sulfate- and silicone-free shampoos use essential oils for fragrance, which can be more natural but may trigger allergies in some individuals. Choose a scent that suits you.

7. Research Brands:Research reputable brands known for producing high-quality sulfate- and silicone-free shampoos. Read reviews and seek recommendations from friends or online forums.

8. Patch Test:If you have sensitive skin or allergies, consider doing a patch test before using a new shampoo to check for adverse reactions.

9. Experiment and Adjust: Hair care can be highly individual. It may take some trial and error to find the ideal sulfate- and silicone-free shampoo that suits your hair type and preferences. Be patient and adjust as needed.

10. Consider Coordinating Products: To maximize the benefits of sulfate- and silicone-free shampoo, use complementary sulfate- and silicone-free conditioners and styling products.

Remember that transitioning to sulfate- and silicone-free hair care may require an adjustment period as your hair adapts to the new products. Over time, you should notice improvements in hair health, reduced dryness or oiliness, and increased manageability. By carefully considering your hair type, concerns, and product ingredients, you can select the perfect sulfate- and silicone-free shampoo to support the health and beauty of your hair.

Using silicone and sulfate-free shampoo can offer several benefits for your hair and overall hair health. Here are the key advantages in detail:

1. Reduced Dryness and Frizz: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on the scalp and hair, as they don't strip away the natural oils. This helps retain moisture and prevents dryness, making your hair less prone to frizz.

2. Retained Natural Oils: Sulfates, commonly found in many shampoos, are effective at cleaning but can strip away the natural oils that protect and nourish your hair. Sulfate-free shampoos cleanse without overly drying, preserving your hair's natural oils.

3. Improved Scalp Health: Sulfate-free shampoos are less likely to cause scalp irritation and dryness. This can be especially beneficial if you have a sensitive scalp or conditions like dandruff or eczema.

4. Ideal for Color-Treated Hair: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentle on color-treated hair. They help maintain the vibrancy and longevity of your hair color by preventing premature fading.

5. Reduced Buildup: Silicone-free shampoos do not contain silicones, which can create a buildup on the hair over time. Without this buildup, your hair feels lighter, cleaner, and more manageable.

6. Enhanced Curl Definition: Silicone-free shampoos are often preferred for curly and wavy hair types. They allow the natural curl pattern to shine through, preventing silicones from weighing down the curls.

7. Environmentally Friendly: Many silicone and sulfate compounds are not biodegradable and can harm aquatic life when washed down the drain. Using sulfate- and silicone-free shampoos is an eco-friendly choice.

8. Healthier Hair Growth: By maintaining a healthy scalp and preventing damage caused by harsh sulfates and silicones, sulfate- and silicone-free shampoos can promote healthier hair growth over time.

9. Reduced Risk of Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to sulfates and synthetic fragrances commonly found in regular shampoos. Sulfate- and silicone-free options with natural ingredients can reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

10. Customized Care: Many sulfate- and silicone-free shampoos come in various formulations to cater to specific hair types and concerns, allowing you to choose a product that suits your unique needs.

It's important to note that the severity of these chemicals can vary depending on individual hair types, product formulations, and frequency of use. Some people may not experience any noticeable negative effects from silicones and sulfates, while others may find them to be problematic. It's always a good idea to assess how your hair responds to different products and ingredients and make choices based on what works best for you. Only after thorough research and reviews, one should opt for the best sulfate and silicon free shampoos.

Contributor: Kristle Jones, Licensed cosmetologist and Owner - Kate Lane Salons