Ever Wondered What the Deal is with Sulfates? Here’s Why More Parents Are Choosing Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Their Kids.
When it comes to choosing the right kids shampoo, many parents may not realise that conventional formulas often contain sulfates—harsh cleansing agents that can strip young hair of its natural moisture. While sulfates create that familiar foamy lather, they’re not actually needed to wash hair and are in fact a common cause of hair dryness, skin and eye irritation and increased tangles, making haircare a frustrating experience for both parents and children.
What Are Sulfates?
Sulfates are detergents commonly found in supermarket shampoos, hand washes, and even household cleaners. The most common types—Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)—are known for their foaming properties, but they can be too harsh for delicate scalps and sensitive skin.
Why Sulfates Are Not Ideal for Children’s Hair
1. They Strip Away Natural Oils
Children’s hair and skin are naturally more delicate and require a balance of moisture to remain soft and manageable. Sulfates can remove these oils, leaving hair dry, brittle, and prone to tangles. If your child’s hair is frequently frizzy, tangled or difficult to brush, a sulfate-free alternative may provide noticeable improvement.
2. They Can Cause Irritation
Young scalps are more sensitive than adult scalps, making them more susceptible to irritation from harsh ingredients. Studies indicate that SLS is a skin, scalp and eye irritant, that causes itching, stinging and discomfort. If your child experiences discomfort with hair washing, consider using sulfate-free products.
3. They Make Tangles Worse
Rather than promoting smooth, easy-to-manage hair, sulfate-based shampoos can contribute to dryness, making tangles more frequent and brushing more difficult. A sulfate-free shampoo helps retain moisture, reducing friction and making detangling easier.
4. They May Contain Questionable Byproducts
SLES, in particular, undergoes a manufacturing process called ethoxylation, which can leave behind 1,4-dioxane, a potentially harmful byproduct classified as a possible human carcinogen. While efforts are made to minimise its presence, choosing a sulfate-free shampoo for children eliminates this concern altogether.
The Bloom Squad Difference: Sulfate-Free, Gentle, and Effective
Our kids shampoo and conditioner range is sulfate-free and carefully formulated with coconut-derived cleansers to provide a super-clean wash without stripping hair, and to detangle with ease. We use plant-based ingredients that:
- Gently cleanse—without the need for sulfates or harsh foaming agents.
- Provide deep hydration—ensuring hair remains soft and manageable.
- Make detangling easier—for a stress-free haircare routine.
A Simple Change for Healthier Hair
If your child’s hair feels dry, prone to knots, or difficult to manage, switching to a sulfate-free shampoo can make a significant difference. Choosing sulfate-free haircare supports healthy, nourished hair without unnecessary chemicals.
Explore Bloom Squad’s kids shampoo and conditioner collection today and discover a gentle, worry-free and effective way to care for your child’s hair.
References
1. Effendy, I., & Maibach, H. I. Surfactants and experimental irritant contact dermatitis. Contact Dermatitis, 33(4), 217-225.
2. Ananthapadmanabhan, K. P., Moore, D. J., Subramanyan, K., Misra, M., & Meyer, F. Cleansing without compromise: The impact of cleansers on the skin barrier and the technology of mild surfactants. Dermatologic Therapy, 17(1), 16-25.
3. Ananthapadmanabhan, K. P., Fang, J., Strube, L., & Rockwell, C. The effects of surfactants on skin barrier integrity and function. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 68(3), 67-73.
4. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Technical Fact Sheet – 1,4-Dioxane.
