Unless you’ve been living under a rock, chances are you’ve heard that sulfates are terrible for your hair. But what are they? What do they actually do? Why are they the enemy of hair extensions?
THE SCIENCE
Sulfates (sometimes listed as SLS, or sodium lauryl sulfate on the ingredient list) are one of the most common lathering agents used in shampoos for almost a century. Decades of marketing hammered into our heads that clean hair can ONLY be attained with a head full of pleasant smelling bubbles and lots of lather. The problem is that sulfates don’t discern between dirt and the natural hair oils that keep your hair hydrated and healthy…they strip EVERYTHING.
The result? Dry, irritated scalps and weakened, fragile hair. That’s the impact sulfates have on your own natural hair. But what about hair extensions?
THE IMPACT ON YOUR EXTENSIONS
100% human hair extensions are the closest thing to your own natural hair with one big missing element: those natural hair oils. Your scalp is constantly producing oil from the root that spread from roots to ends, keeping your hair healthy. Hair extensions aren’t attached to your scalp…so they don’t have the same natural protective shield. This makes them all the more susceptible to becoming dry, damaged and frizzy from harsh stripping shampoos and ALL the more reason to make sure you follow recommended care routines daily at home.
SO, WHAT TO DO?
To stop unintentionally damaging your hair, start with one simple thing: before you buy it… Flip it over! Sulfate-free hair care is a necessity! Check the ingredient listing and make sure you don’t see the words: SLS, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or any Sulfate for that matter. Or…even better, let us do the shopping for you! Perfect Locks INSPIRE Hydrating Shampoo and Hydrating Conditioner are sulfate, paraben and sodium chloride free.
Love your hair, keep it healthy….stay gorgeous!
