Ever Wondered What the Deal is with Sulfates? Here’s Why More Parents Are Choosing Sulfate-Free Shampoo for Their Kids.
When it comes to choosing the right kids shampoo, many parents may not realise that conventional formulas often contain sulfates, which are harsh cleansing agents that can strip young hair of its natural moisture. While sulfates create those familiar foamy bubbles we're used to, they’re not actually needed to cleanse hair and are in fact a common cause of skin and eye irritation, hair dryness and increased tangles, making haircare a frustrating, painful experience for both parents and children.
What Are Sulfates?
The most common sulfates found in supermarket shampoos, hand washes, detergents and household cleaners are Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), The surfactant additive that causes the bubbly foam. Not only do we not need sulfates to properly cleanse hair, they're a cause of concern for parents, when it comes to kids.
1. They're Known To Cause Irritation
Studies indicate that sulfates are a skin, scalp and eye irritant, that causes stinging, itching and discomfort. As hard as we may try, kids shampoo often makes it way into little eyes during hair wash. So, if the ingredients sting, the tears are likely to flow! As any parent who has experienced this will know, it's not the easiest task to then rinse all the remaining foamy residue from their skin = they're coated in an irritant til their next bath.
2. They Strip Away Natural Oils
Children’s hair and skin is naturally more delicate than adults, produces less oil and requires a balance of moisture to remain soft and manageable. Sulfates can be too aggressive in removing natural oils, leaving hair dry, brittle, and prone to tangles. If your child’s hair is frequently frizzy, tangled or difficult to brush, it could be over-stripped of moisture.
3. They Make Tangles Worse
Rather than promoting smooth, easy-to-manage hair, sulfate-based shampoos can contribute to dryness, making tangles more frequent and brushing more difficult. A sulfate-free shampoo helps retain moisture, reducing friction and making detangling easier.
4. They May Contain Questionable Byproducts
SLES, in particular, undergoes a manufacturing process called ethoxylation, which can leave behind 1,4-dioxane, a potentially harmful byproduct classified as a possible human carcinogen. While efforts are made to minimise its presence, choosing a sulfate-free shampoo for children eliminates this concern altogether.
The Bloom Squad Difference: Sulfate-Free, Gentle, and Effective
Our kids shampoo and conditioner is sulfate-free and carefully formulated with mild and gentle, coconut-derived cleansers. It still provides a super-clean wash to get rid of the dirt & debris kids seem to collect, but without stripping the hair's natural oils. We use plant-based ingredients that:
- Gently cleanse - without the need for sulfates or harsh foaming agents.
- Provide deep hydration - ensuring hair remains soft and manageable.
- Soothe the scalp - promoting healthy hair growth.
- Make detangling easier - for a stress-free haircare routine.
A Simple Change for Healthier Hair
If your child’s hair feels dry, prone to knots, or difficult to manage, switching to a sulfate-free shampoo can make a significant difference. Choosing sulfate-free haircare supports healthy, nourished hair without unnecessary chemicals.
Explore Bloom Squad’s sulfate free kids shampoo and conditioner collection today and discover a gentle, worry-free and effective way to care for your child’s hair.
References
1. Effendy, I., & Maibach, H. I. Surfactants and experimental irritant contact dermatitis. Contact Dermatitis, 33(4), 217-225.
2. Ananthapadmanabhan, K. P., Moore, D. J., Subramanyan, K., Misra, M., & Meyer, F. Cleansing without compromise: The impact of cleansers on the skin barrier and the technology of mild surfactants. Dermatologic Therapy, 17(1), 16-25.
3. Ananthapadmanabhan, K. P., Fang, J., Strube, L., & Rockwell, C. The effects of surfactants on skin barrier integrity and function. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 68(3), 67-73.
4. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Technical Fact Sheet – 1,4-Dioxane.
