Why Sulphate-Free Matters

When we think about headaches, we often blame dehydration, stress, lack of sleep or too much screen time. But did you know your haircare products might also be playing a role? Specifically, the ingredients in your shampoo and conditioner could be triggering more than just scalp irritation, they might be contributing to those nagging headaches, tension behind the eyes, and even migraines.

Let’s dive into the connection between headaches and haircare and explore why switching to sulphate-free products might be the game-changer your scalp, and your head, has been asking for.

 

What Are Sulphates, and Why Are They in Haircare?

Sulphates, such as sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES), are chemical detergents used in many shampoos and body washes. Their job is to create that luxurious, foamy lather we often associate with “clean.” They effectively remove oil, dirt and product buildup, which is why they’ve been popular for decades in mainstream formulations.

But that deep-clean feeling comes at a cost. Sulphates don’t discriminate, they strip away all oil, including the natural, protective oils your scalp needs to stay balanced and healthy. For many people, this leads to:

  • Dryness and brittleness in hair strands
  • An irritated or itchy scalp
  • Overproduction of oil as your scalp tries to compensate
  • Flare-ups of dandruff and inflammation
  • Weakened hair structure, causing more split ends and breakage

shampoo

And, importantly for many, some users experience persistent headaches or facial pressure, particularly around the temples or behind the eyes.

 

The Hidden Link Between Sulphates and Headaches

Although research into the neurological effects of cosmetic ingredients is still growing, anecdotal evidence, and the experiences of many, suggest a link between ingredients like SLS and symptoms such as:

  • Headaches and migraines
  • Pain behind the eyes
  • Dizziness or fogginess after washing hair
  • Sinus pressure and tension in the temples

So how does a shampoo cause a headache? For some, it may be due to sensitivity or allergic reactions to the chemicals. For others, it’s the synthetic fragrance added to mask the smell of strong detergents, fragrances that are often made with phthalates and other hormone-disrupting compounds. And for people prone to migraines, certain preservatives and emulsifiers in haircare products (like dimethicones or parabens) can act as irritants.

If you’ve ever noticed headaches getting worse after a hair wash, or you feel foggy or unwell while using certain products, it might be time to consider what’s inside your bottle.

conditioner

My Personal Story: Haircare and Headaches

For years, I struggled with unexplained migraines, inflamed scalp and hair that never felt quite “clean”, despite regular washing. I tried switching brands, adjusting my diet, drinking more water… but nothing helped.

It wasn’t until I started formulating my own haircare range and researching the impact of everyday ingredients that I discovered what was really going on. Sulphates and synthetic additives were triggering low-grade inflammation, not just on my scalp, but throughout my system. Once I cut them out completely, the change was astonishing. My scalp stopped itching. My headaches lessened. My hair felt balanced, clean and resilient again.

That’s why I advocate so passionately for sulphate-free, toxin-free haircare. The difference is more than cosmetic, it can be felt through your whole body.

The Shampoo That Supports

One of the biggest game-changers in your routine will be switching to our Intense Hydrating and Clarifying Shampoo. This shampoo is sulphate-free, fragrance-free, and packed with natural botanicals that work with your body, not against it. Designed originally for curly hair, it’s ideal for all hair types that need gentle cleansing without stripping away moisture. With ingredients like ginger to reduce inflammation, witch hazel to soothe dandruff and irritation, and rose geranium to balance oil production, this formulation supports a healthy scalp environment. The absence of sulphates, PEGs, and synthetic fragrances meaning your scalp will stay calm, and your hair remains hydrated, and your head will feel clearer.

Intense Hydrating and Clarifying Shampoo

What to Look for (and What to Avoid)

If you’re curious about sulphate-free haircare, the first step is to check your labels. Watch out for these common sulphate ingredients:

  • Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS)
  • Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLES)
  • Ammonium Lauryl Sulphate (ALS)
  • Sodium Coco Sulphate (SCS)

Also be wary of synthetic fragrances, parabens, PEGs, and phthalates. These often accompany sulphates in many commercial haircare products.

Instead, look for plant-based, naturally derived surfactants like:

  • Coco glucoside
  • Decyl glucoside
  • Lauryl glucoside

These ingredients clean gently, without disturbing your skin’s natural microbiome or triggering inflammatory responses.

 

Who Benefits Most from Sulphate-Free?

Everyone can benefit from going sulphate-free, but it’s particularly helpful for:

  • People with sensitive skin or eczema
  • Those prone to headaches or migraines
  • Anyone with colour-treated or chemically processed hair
  • Teens and adults with oily, flaky or reactive scalps
  • Children, whose skin is more permeable and sensitive to chemicals

You don’t need to sacrifice performance for safety, either. A well-formulated sulphate-free shampoo still cleans deeply and leaves your hair soft and manageable, without the risk of triggering discomfort.

 

The Bottom Line

Your shampoo might be more than just a bad hair day culprit, it could be affecting your overall health and wellbeing. If you’re experiencing unexplained headaches, itchy scalp or oil imbalance, take a moment to audit your haircare routine. Going sulphate-free could be the key to unlocking clearer skin, healthier hair, and yes, even fewer headaches.

Making this one switch might be the simplest form of self-care you give yourself this year.