Sulfates, commonly found in skincare and personal care products like cleansers and shampoos, are surfactants that help create lather and break down oil and dirt. The most common sulfates used in skincare are sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). While these ingredients are effective at cleansing, they can also be harsh on the skin, especially when used in daily routines. Research indicates that sulfates may disrupt the skin's natural barrier, leading to several unwanted side effects, particularly for those with sensitive or dry skin.
The primary reason to avoid sulfates in skincare products is their potential to strip the skin of natural oils. Sulfates can remove not only dirt and excess oils but also essential lipids that maintain the skin's moisture balance. This can lead to dryness, irritation, and an overall disruption of the skin’s barrier function. The more frequently sulfates are used, the greater the likelihood that your skin will lose its natural moisture, leaving it prone to dehydration and flakiness.
Moreover, using sulfate-based products on a daily basis can cause long-term damage to the skin's protective barrier. The skin barrier acts as a shield, protecting against environmental toxins, pollution, and harmful bacteria. When sulfates weaken this barrier, the skin becomes more susceptible to irritants, potentially leading to chronic conditions like eczema or rosacea. Even people with normal skin types may experience irritation and increased sensitivity over time.
Another concern with sulfates is that they can disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance. Healthy skin has a slightly acidic pH, which helps protect against harmful microbes and maintain its overall integrity. Sulfates tend to be alkaline, which can interfere with this balance and make the skin more vulnerable to inflammation, breakouts, and discomfort. This is especially problematic for individuals with acne-prone or sensitive skin, as their skin is already more susceptible to imbalance.
For these reasons, switching to sulfate-free skincare products can be a game-changer for maintaining skin health. Sulfate-free products are generally gentler, helping the skin retain its natural oils and moisture without compromising the barrier. They also maintain the skin’s pH balance, reducing the risk of irritation and inflammation. By opting for sulfate-free formulas, you not only protect your skin from the harmful effects of harsh chemicals but also promote long-term skin health, allowing it to thrive naturally.
“That’s a lot of scientific info. So, why should I skip sulfates? Other than the fact that these chemical agents are best suited for tough grease cleaners, there are many other major concerns with sulfates."
- Animal Testing – Many products with sulfates are tested on animals first to measure irritation reaction. (Luckily, at NuReveal we are PETA-Approved!)
- Pollution/Environment- Sulfates down the drain can harm aquatic organisms, while the fight for Palm Oil is leading to the destruction of our rainforests.
- Long-Term Health- Sulfates are often contaminated with cancer-causing irritants during the manufacturing process.
“But I love the lathering of my products and don’t want to give that up.” We know you love the smooth bubbly lather that comes along with bad sulfates. Fortunately, sulfates aren’t the only way to achieve a great lather. That’s why our team has worked hard to utilize Whole Foods Standard Ingredient List of alternatives for the recipe in our Lemongrass Dream Cleanser to give you that lush lather you desire without the harmful additives.
SHOP Our Lemongrass Sulfate Free Cleanser!