In the pursuit of healthy, vibrant hair, we often overlook the importance of caring for our scalps. Here at Naturally COS, we believe that a healthy scalp is the foundation of strong, beautiful hair. Today, we’re shedding light on an often-overlooked ingredient in personal care products: sulphates. Specifically, we want to address the surprising link between sulphates and cradle cap in adults—an uncomfortable scalp condition that can be worsened by certain chemicals in mainstream shampoos.

 

What Are Sulphates?

Sulphates are mineral salts used as surfactants in many personal care and household cleaning products. In shampoos, these compounds—like Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLES)—are popular for their lathering power and ability to strip away oil, dirt, and build-up. However, while sulphates can offer a deep cleanse, they may come with significant downsides, especially for those of us who prioritise healthy scalps and eco-friendly ingredients.

Our philosophy at Naturally COS is to avoid any ingredient that could compromise scalp health or damage the environment. That’s why all our hair care products are 100% sulphate-free, allowing for gentle cleansing without the harsh effects of conventional shampoos.

How Sulphates Affect the Scalp

While sulphates are great at lifting dirt and oil, they can be a little too effective. Their aggressive cleansing properties can strip away the natural oils that protect and moisturise your scalp. This can lead to dryness, irritation, and even a condition akin to cradle cap in adults—a flaky, itchy scalp that’s uncomfortable and often hard to manage. We believe that gentle, natural ingredients are key to avoiding these problems, which is why our products are carefully formulated to nourish rather than strip the scalp.

In particular, for those with curly or dry hair, sulphate-based shampoos can lead to dryness and breakage, as curly hair is naturally more prone to losing moisture. Our Intense Hydrating and Clarifying Shampoo is designed to support curls and all hair types, gently removing impurities without disrupting the natural oils your scalp needs to stay healthy.

Why We Say “No” to Sulphates

Besides the risk of adult cradle cap, the effects of sulphates extend beyond our scalps. Here’s why we choose to keep our products sulphate-free:

• Avoiding Scalp Sensitivity: Sulphates can irritate sensitive skin, leading to red, inflamed patches that can worsen over time. For individuals with sensitive or already dry skin, this can be a recipe for discomfort.
• Supporting a Balanced Scalp: By stripping away natural oils, sulphates disrupt the scalp’s pH balance, potentially causing it to produce even more oil in response, leading to an ongoing cycle of oiliness and dryness.
• Protecting the Environment: Sulphates are often derived from petroleum or unsustainable sources like palm oil, contributing to pollution and environmental damage. At Naturally COS, we opt for sustainable, plant-based ingredients that are gentle on both the earth and your skin.

 

Our Best Shampoo and Conditioner Sulphate-Free Hair Care Collection

Our commitment to creating natural, effective Australian hair care products means avoiding not only sulphates but also any ingredient that doesn’t contribute to healthy hair and scalp. Here’s a closer look at a few of our sulphate-free favourites:

Intense Hydrating and Clarifying Shampoo

This shampoo provides a deep cleanse using nature-powered ingredients, like ginger, witch hazel, and rosemary, which work to reduce excess sebum and calm inflammation on the scalp. It’s perfect for curly or dry hair types as it gently lifts away impurities without stripping the scalp of essential oils. Rosemary Leaf extract fights dandruff and stimulates follicles for healthier hair growth, while ginger refreshes the scalp for a complete reset. We encourage a double-cleanse method with this product to maximise its benefits—one wash to loosen dirt and oil, and a second to completely remove them, leaving the scalp fresh and balanced.

Hair Conditioner Boost

Our Hair Boost Conditioner is formulated to deeply nourish the scalp while restoring shine and moisture to the hair. With Fairtrade Shea Butter to lock in hydration, organic Argan Oil to strengthen hair, and Aloe Vera for a natural shine, this conditioner is designed with curly and textured hair in mind but works wonders for all hair types. This conditioner goes beyond hydration, supporting overall scalp health to prevent the discomfort and dryness that can lead to flakiness and irritation. It’s particularly effective when paired with our Intense Hydrating and Clarifying Shampoo, creating a powerful duo that’s as kind to your scalp as it is to the environment.

 

Hair Repair Masque with Nth QLD Bananas and Cacao

Our Hair Repair Masque is the ultimate treatment for damaged or lackluster hair. With nourishing North Queensland bananas and rich cacao, this masque adds moisture and shine to every strand while promoting scalp health. Cacao helps control frizz and adds strength to the follicles, while bananas improve manageability and shine without relying on silicones or synthetic ingredients. Plus, our unique process of using sustainable, surplus bananas from local farms is part of our dedication to ethical and eco-friendly practices.

The Naturally COS Approach to Australian Hair Care

At Naturally COS, our products are crafted with the health of your scalp and hair in mind. By using botanical ingredients, we allow nature’s own cleansing agents, moisturisers, and anti-inflammatory compounds to work in harmony with your body’s needs. We see each product as an opportunity to promote not only a healthy scalp but also sustainable beauty routines that respect the environment.

Our customers have shared that transitioning to sulphate-free products has made a noticeable difference in scalp comfort and overall hair health. For those who have experienced adult cradle cap, flaky scalp, or just a generally irritated scalp, making the switch to sulphate-free products can be a game-changer. Unlike many mainstream brands, we focus on formulations that support the natural balance of your scalp, allowing your hair to grow healthier and stronger over time.

 

Discover the Difference of Sulphate-Free

Making the choice to go sulphate-free is a decision that supports scalp health, hair vitality, and a cleaner planet. We’re proud to offer a collection of products that don’t compromise on quality, efficacy, or environmental impact.

Ready to experience the benefits of sulphate-free hair care? Explore our hair care collection, and enjoy a natural, nourishing approach that’s truly for your scalp.

Contact us here if you have any questions about our products.