Back

What are sulfates?

Sulfonated surfactants, also known as “sulfates”, are cleansing agents that trap sebum and impurities to cleanse the scalp and hair fiber. Widely used in cleansing products like shampoo and shower gels, they boast excellent cleansing properties and promote significant foaming in contact with water. Their strong cleansing power instantly gives you that clean hair feeling.

HOW DO YOU RECOGNIZE THEM?
 
Found on the ingredients list (INCI) of most conventional shampoos, they can be recognized under the names of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) or Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS).
 
However, when used in high doses, certain types of sulfates can irritate the scalp and make the lengths of your hair fragile. At Yves Rocher, we have chosen to remove sulfonated surfactants from all of our shampoos and develop formulas that gently wash all hair types, even the most sensitive.
SULFATE-FREE, YES, BUT IT LATHERS TOO!
 
Our formulation experts have developed a combination of naturally sourced non-sulfonated surfactants (specifically derived from coconut oil or sunflower oil) to gently wash your hair while respecting the balance of your scalp and the lengths of your hair.
 
These ingredients have been carefully selected for our new range of shampoos to maintain effectiveness and sensoriality. In the shower, a creamy foam spreads across your hair and removes impurities and excess sebum, without drying out your scalp or hair.
HAIR CARE THAT STARTS WITH SHAMPOO, FOR EVERYONE
 
Sulfate-free shampoos are often recommended for colored and Brazilian-straightened hair.
At Yves Rocher, we believe that every hair type deserves the same level of care, starting with your shampoo. Suited to all hair types, our sulfate-free* shampoos gently wash, respect the balance of every type of scalp and preserve the hydrolipid film on the hair fiber.
 
Switching from conventional shampoos to sulfate-free shampoos may require some time for your hair to adjust. During the first few days, your hair may appear less shiny and coarser. After a few uses, you will see the benefits of our sulfate-free shampoos. Our gentle formulas, inspired by the botanical world, have been developed to respect the balance of your scalp and protect the hair fiber.
EVEN MORE ECO-FRIENDLY FORMULAS
 
All of our new shampoos are formulated to be sulfate-free*, silicone-free and 100% Vegan**. Our formulas contain more than 94% naturally-sourced ingredients.
 
 
 
*sulfonated surfactant-free
**formulated without animal derivatives
 

Share