20th Oct 2026
What sulphate-free and silicone-free actually mean for your hair.
Shampoo labels are full of claims. Here's what the most common ones mean, and when they matter.
Sulphate-free
Sulphates are strong cleansers. They're great for an oily scalp, but can leave dry, curly or colour-treated hair feeling rough. Sulphate-free formulas cleanse more gently.
Silicone-free
Silicones smooth and add shine, but some can build up over time. If your hair feels limp, a weekly clarifying wash resets it.
pH-balanced
A slightly acidic pH keeps the hair cuticle flat, which means less frizz and more shine.