Sulphate Free Shampoo

Cleaner haircare starts with sulphate-free shampoos

Not all bubbles are good news for your hair. Many shampoos create foam using sulphates that can strip your scalp and leave it feeling dry.

A sulphate-free shampoo offers a gentler clean, keeping your hair balanced and hydrated without harsh ingredients. At Hairhouse, we’ve curated a trusted selection of professional formulas, including your favourite Australian brands, that put hair health first.

What is a sulphate-free shampoo?

Sulphates are a type of surfactant found in many everyday hair shampoo formulas. They create a rich lather but can also strip the scalp of its natural oils, causing dryness and irritation for some hair types.

A sulphate-free shampoo swaps these harsh agents for ingredients that support gentle cleansing. It’s a better option if you’re after cleaner, healthier hair, especially in Australia, where dry climates call for a more balanced approach to haircare.

Are sulphate-free shampoos better than regular shampoo?

Yes, sulphate-free shampoos are better for anyone wanting a more balanced approach to haircare. They offer gentle cleansing without disrupting the scalp’s natural barrier.

Unlike regular shampoos, they don’t rely on harsh foaming agents, which can leave hair feeling dry. Sulphate-free formulas are more moisturising and nourishing, helping support long-term hair health without sacrificing a clean feel.

Who benefits most from a sulphate-free formula?

Switching to a sulphate-free formula makes a big difference if your hair or scalp needs a gentler approach. These shampoos avoid harsh cleansers, making them suitable for daily use without over-drying or irritating.

You may benefit from switching if you have:

• Sensitive scalp: Harsh cleansers can cause itchiness and irritation.
• Dry or damaged hair: Less disruption to the scalp means less dryness and better support for healing ends.
• Frizzy hair: A gentler wash helps manage flyaways and keeps hair feeling smoother.
• Curly or natural hair: Coils and waves hold onto moisture better when natural hair isn’t stripped of oils.
• Coloured or chemically treated hair: Preserves colour longer and protects fragile strands from further stress.
• Fine or thinning hair: Reduces breakage and gives a softer, weightless cleanse.
• Thick or coarse hair: Keeps texture soft and hydrated without buildup.

Matching your shampoo to your hair type

Choosing the right sulphate-free shampoo means understanding what your hair actually needs. It’s less about the trend and more about your hair's behaviour day to day.

Consider these factors before you buy:

• Scalp condition: A dry or oily scalp will affect how your shampoo performs.
• Hair texture and density: Different hair types absorb moisture and product differently.
• Moisture needs: Dry hair benefits from a more hydrating shampoo, while finer strands may need something lighter.
• Hair treatments: If you have chemically processed or coloured hair, look for a gentle, protective formula.
• Styling habits: Using hot tools or wearing your curly hair naturally? Choose ingredients that support your routine.

Brands we love that are free from sulphates

Once you know what your hair needs, finding the right match is easy. We’ve stocked our shelves with sulphate-free nourishing shampoos that support every routine, from colour care to curls.

Many of our best-selling formulas are paraben-free, cruelty-free and packed with ingredients like keratin to boost shine and strength. Whether you're after a rich moisture shampoo or a smoothing anti-frizz shampoo, we’ve got you covered with trusted brands like:

• KEVIN.MURPHY
• De Lorenzo
• Olaplex
• Kérastase
• L’oréal Professionnel
• Pureology
• NAK Hair
• Davroe
• evo
• O&M
• ORI Lab

Is dry shampoo sulphate-free?

Many of the brands we stock also offer styling support between washes. That’s where dry shampoo comes in.

Most formulas are silicone-free and naturally sulphate-free, since they rely on starches to absorb oil, not traditional cleansers. They’re a gentler option for everyday use but can lead to buildup if not washed out regularly. Try options from Redken, BondiBoost, or Virtue for a fresh, weightless feel.

Tips for getting the best clean with sulphate-free shampoo

Getting used to a sulphate-free shampoo can take a few tweaks to your usual routine. These formulas clean differently, so the technique makes a big difference in how your hair looks and feels.

Try these tips to get the most out of each wash:

1. Add water before you add more product to help it lather better.
2. Shampoo twice if you use a lot of styling products or dry shampoo.
3. Follow with a sulphate-free conditioner to help smooth and protect.
4. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle gently while conditioning.
5. Finish with a leave-in treatment to lock in moisture and boost softness.

Early signs that your hair is adjusting to gentler care

Switching to a sulphate-free shampoo can feel different at first. You might notice less foam, and your roots may feel heavier while your scalp rebalances. Some people experience temporary changes like more visible dandruff, slight breakage or increased oiliness. These are normal signs that your scalp is adjusting.

Over time, you’ll see improvements in shine, moisture retention and the look of your curl or hair colour. Even oily hair types settle into a healthier rhythm with consistent use.

Find everything you need for hair and beyond at Hairhouse

While you’re exploring sulphate-free hair products, don’t stop at shampoo. At Hairhouse, you’ll find everything from argan oil hair treatments to rich hair masks.

We also stock hot hair brushes, men’s grooming tools, gift sets and home fragrance items. You’ll even find beauty and skincare favourites to round out your self-care shelf. Shop online or in-store for trusted brands and expert advice, all under one roof!