Have you ever stopped to think about why so many people have switched from drugstore hair care products? Well, it seems that sulfates and silicones are to blame. These two ingredients, commonly found in shampoos and conditioners, have garnered a negative reputation thanks to the clean beauty movement that gained momentum in the early 2010s.

The clean beauty movement aimed to steer consumers away from potentially harmful ingredients, even though the claims that silicones and sulfates could cause cancer and other health risks have been proven false. Nonetheless, many still steer clear of these ingredients for other reasons. Silicones can cause buildup on the scalp, leading to heavy, lifeless hair if used too often. On the other hand, sulfates can dry out the hair, strip away color, and irritate certain scalp types.

In response to the clean beauty trend, numerous hair-care brands, particularly mid-range and luxury ones, began eliminating silicones and sulfates from their products. Some substituted sulfates with more natural cleansing agents derived from ingredients like coconut oil. Eventually, even drugstore brands followed suit, with products like Pantene’s sulfate-free Gold Series line and Herbal Essences proudly stating their silicone-free status.

But are there significant disparities between drugstore and mid-range or luxury shampoo formulas? According to cosmetic chemist and Sula Labs CEO AJ Addae, the answer is both yes and no. Shampoos, irrespective of their price, have one primary objective: to cleanse. High-end sulfate-free shampoos often incorporate coconut oil derivatives as cleansing agents, as well as sensory components like foam enhancers and fragrances that can elevate the price.

Conversely, lower-priced shampoos may forgo fancy ingredients and opt for surfactants like sulfates to cut costs. These surfactants, present in all shampoos, bind to oil and water, effectively washing away dirt.

So, while there may be variations in ingredients and prices, at the end of the day, all shampoos serve the same purpose of cleansing your hair. Whether you prefer affordable drugstore options or indulgent luxury brands, the choice is yours!