Ladies, I think we owe our hair an apology. Considering what we put it through, it’s no surprise that it breaks, fades, and occasionally rejects our commands. When we style with hot tools or experiment with 10 different shades before finding our perfect color, we may find ourselves needing to do a bit of groveling (in this case, with some TLC from the best sulfate-free shampoos).
But, good news, you can repair your relationship with your hair, no apology texts necessary. Just a really epic shampoo, free of harsh chemicals and loaded with ingredients that will lock in moisture, repair breakage, and prevent that beautiful balayage from fading before its time.
Below are the 5 sulfate-free shampoos that made the cut and, believe me, the competition was steep. All of these work great for every hair type, are super safe for color treated hair, are cruelty-free, and nothing short of fabulous.
5. Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo
Buy on Amazon | $27
This shampoo is a fantastic option for those of us who prefer to go a few days in between washes as it leaves hair feeling cleaner, longer. It is extremely gentle yet washes away oil, product buildup, and dirt while strengthening strands. It actually improves hair health with each use, resulting in shiny, bouncy locks you’ll love to touch.
4. Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Shampoo
Buy on Amazon | $33
I love Bumble & Bumble products and this one is no exception. Aside from smelling fantastic, this lightweight formula moisturizes and restores shine and softness. It is gentle on the scalp and also detangles extremely well (bonus for us long-haired gals) and is, of course, free of sulfates and never tested on animals.
3. Grown Alchemist Anti-Frizz Shampoo
Buy on Amazon | $49
Ok, it’s pricey. But once you try it you might just be hooked. It is loaded with plant-based ingredients to soothe and moisturize dry hair, leaving it ultra-clean and super shiny. My hair tends to get frizzy very easily, so I appreciate the way this shampoo tames my flyaways and helps my blow out stay fresh even on humid days. Bonus, this shampoo is made with Certified Organic ingredients.
2. Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo
Buy on Amazon | $28
This shampoo has had a cult following of stylists for years, and for good reason. It actually improves hair texture and restores internal strength and moisture levels, creating shine and manageability. A little goes a long way as well, so the bottle may last you a bit longer than others. It is great for all hair types and absolutely does wonders for my damaged hair.
1. Virtue Recovery Shampoo
Buy on Amazon | $38
Virtue made the list of the best sulfate-free shampoos thanks to its unique formulation. With a first-of-its-kind Alpha Keratin 60ku®, it behaves like a high-powered treatment product that deposits pure, human keratin protein directly into the hair. It repairs damage from heat, color treatments, and chemicals and leaves hair soft, supple, and moisturized. It is perfect for all hair types and totally safe for color-treated hair. Fact: it completely saved my hair after a pretty severe curling iron incident (ouch) – this stuff is truly amazing.
Looking for more tips to save your locks? Check out this hair care secret for an inexpensive fix that will change how you wash your hair.
