Sulphate-free shampoos have surged in popularity, promising a gentler cleanse that doesn’t compromise on performance. While traditional sulphates create the rich foam many associate with cleanliness, they can also strip moisture, fade colour, and irritate sensitive scalps. That’s where sulphate-free alternatives come in — and the team at the Good Housekeeping Institute set out to find the best.
In a large-scale consumer study, 510 women tested 39 sulphate-free shampoos, evaluating their ease of use, texture, effectiveness, and overall results. In the lab, beauty experts used specialist tools like the Dia-Stron machine and Sebumeter to assess detangling performance and cleansing power.
Whether you’re looking to protect colour, fight frizz, or nourish dry strands, the results are in—and these shampoos offer some of the best hair care tips in bottle form.
Top-Rated Sulphate-Free Shampoos
Kérastase Discipline Bain Fluidealiste – 94/100
A clear winner, this shampoo left testers’ hair softer, shinier, and smoother for days. The lather was described as “luxurious” and it rinsed cleanly with zero residue. It’s ideal for those seeking a well-rounded solution to frizz, manageability, and softness.
Pureology Hydrate Shampoo – 91/100
This colour-protecting shampoo wowed the panel with its ability to maintain vibrancy while deeply hydrating the hair. Testers also noted fewer flyaways and improved texture.
Redken Frizz Dismiss Shampoo – 89/100
Highly praised for its frizz control and clean rinse, this formula offers smooth, shiny results and foams up well despite being sulphate-free.
Matrix Colorful Anti-Fade Shampoo – 87/100
Packed with omega fatty acids to protect and repair hair, testers loved its colour-preserving abilities and creamy texture that rinsed easily.
Living Proof Restore Shampoo – 86/100
This nourishing formula soothed dry scalps and left hair feeling silky without flattening volume. The innovative pump bottle was a bonus.
SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate & Recover – 85/100
Designed for very dry or brittle hair, this shampoo delivered on softness and moisture. Lab tests confirmed its detangling and smoothing abilities.
Fekkai Technician Color Shampoo – 85/100
With environmental defense in mind, this shampoo boosted shine and enhanced colour vibrancy while calming frizz.
OGX Anti-Frizz Shampoo – 82/100
Affordable and effective, this gold-toned formula impressed with its smoothing power and detangling results—ideal for anyone on a budget.
Nexxus Advanced Hydrating Shampoo – 81/100
Great for fighting static and frizz, this rich formula cleaned thoroughly, though some curl definition was reduced.
Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Shampoo – 81/100
Testers raved about the scent and post-wash bounce. Ideal for heat styling fans who want added shine without compromising hair health.
Why Go Sulphate-Free?
According to Katie Allen, founder of London’s MAYFIVE salon, sulphate-free shampoos are ideal for coloured and dry hair, including curly types. “Shampoos with heavy sulphates can fade colour and lead to frizz,” she says. “Sulphate-free alternatives cleanse gently without disturbing the hair cuticle.”
If you’re managing scalp conditions like dandruff, Katie recommends beginning with sulphates for a deep cleanse, then switching to something gentler once symptoms clear.
Her top hair care steps for optimal results?
Wet hair thoroughly
Lather shampoo in your hands before applying to roots
Add more water—not more product—if lather is lacking
Do Sulphate-Free Shampoos Really Work?
Absolutely. While they may not foam as much, sulphate-free shampoos use alternative cleansing agents to remove dirt and oil without stripping the hair. The Good Housekeeping Institute’s lab tests proved that many of these formulas perform just as well—if not better—than their sulphate-rich counterparts.
If you’re seeking smooth, manageable hair without harsh additives, Kérastase’s Bain Fluidealiste leads the pack, though budget-friendly options like OGX’s Anti-Frizz Shampoo still deliver impressive results. For colour-treated hair, Pureology’s Hydrate Shampoo is a standout choice.
As consumer demand grows for gentler hair solutions, the best hair health advice is clear: a sulphate-free routine can offer just as much cleansing power—with more long-term hair benefits.
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