13 Best Cosmetologist-Approved Sodium Chloride-Free Shampoos Of 2024
Rejuvenate your dry and brittle locks and regain the shine with these gentle shampoos.
Lindsay Loo is a cosmetologist who has spent 10 years behind the chair in a storied salon in Chelsea. She is a certified Wella Master Color Expert and also has experience backstage at New York Fashion Week. She has a private studio and loves to make her clients feel amazing and welcomed.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
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Sodium chloride is a thickening agent used in many shampoos today. Using these shampoos on your hair can even counteract your keratin hair treatments. Adding a sodium chloride-free shampoo to your beauty routine not only moisturizes your hair but also brings your dry and brittle hair back to life! Check out the list of the best sodium chloride-free shampoos we have hand-picked for you after going through various customer reviews online! Scroll down for more information!
In This Article
13 Best No Salt Shampoos For Every Hair Type
1. Best For Color-Treated Hair:PURE nature Argan Oil Deep Hydra Nourishing Shampoo
The Argan Oil Deep Hydra Nourishing Shampoo from PURE nature is specially formulated shampoo for color-treated hair. The formula hydrates and protects the scalp and restores moisture levels on your dehydrated hair. It contains antioxidants and vitamins that nourish and rejuvenate your hair, while the UV and thermal protectant repairs damage caused by regular use of hot hair tools.
This dandruff shampoo provides structure to your hair, making it non-frizzy, manageable, and soft. It adds new life to dull hair and leaves it silky and glossy. The vitamin E in the formula penetrates the hair cuticles, making your locks stronger, youthful, and thicker. The shampoo’s nutrients and other active ingredients prevent hair loss and increase hair health. Amy, a personal vlogger, says, “It does say to leave [the product] for one to two minutes but I’ve had better results when I wasn’t rushed and could leave it in my hair for a couple of minutes more. It seemed like it did its job more effectively (i).” If you want anti-frizz hair, this is what you’re looking for!
Hair Type: Curly, Dandruff, Wavy, Thick, Thin, and Chemically treated
Pros
- Color-safe
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Musty smell
Did You Know?
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 861 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
2. Best Heat Protectant:It’s a 10 Haircare Miracle Shampoo Plus Keratin
This daily miracle revitalizing shampoo has deep conditioning properties and a gentle formula which is safe for color-treated hair. It is infused with keratin that nourishes and strengthens the hair follicles. It prevents breakage, reduces tangles, and protects the hair from thermal styling and natural damage by locking out humidity. It locks in color vibrancy, increases elasticity, cleanses oily scalp, and restores hair health without causing dryness. If you need further convincing, check this review to understand the tester’s experience of using the product.
Hair Type: Damaged and Color-treated
Pros
- Color-safe
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Heat protectant
Cons
- Expensive
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 4,866 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
3. Best Cruelty-Free Formula:Natural Formula Keratin Intense Prostraight Shampoo
The Keratin Intense Prostraight Shampoo from Natural Formula is infused with two types of pure keratin complex to rebuild each hair strand from within and build a protective coating around straightened hair, leaving it smooth and manageable. It is infused with vitamins and moisturizing ingredients for frizz-free and softer strands. This shampoo for straight hair nourishes weakened hair caused by straightening techniques and chemical treatments. It restores hair structure with renewed elasticity and suppleness. The hair softening shampoo formula contains pentanol that enhances keratin’s effects and retains straightening results for up to three times longer.
Hair Type: Dry, Straightened, and Heat-styled
Pros
- Gentle
- Smells good
- Lathers well
- Color-safe
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Contains sulfates
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 2,219 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
PURE nature Argan Oil Deep Hydra Nourishing Shampoo Best For Color-Treated Hair | It's a 10 Haircare Miracle Shampoo Plus Keratin Best Heat Protectant | Natural Formula Keratin Intense Prostraight Shampoo Best Cruelty-Free Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Frizzy, Color Treated, Dry, Curly, Damaged | chemically-treated-hair, Damaged | Dry and Damaged hair, Color Treated, straightened and keratin treated hair, Curly |
| Package Dimensions | 7.32 x 3.07 x 2.99 inches | - | - |
| Weight | 1.19 Pounds | 12 Ounces | 13.5 Ounces |
| Dimensions | - | 0.9 x 1.3 x 6.4 inches | 8.3 x 3.1 x 2 inches |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 861 | 4,866 | 2,219 |
| Price | $15.99 | $32.0 | $18.99 |
4. Best In Budget:ALFAPARF MILANO Lisse Design Keratin Therapy Maintenance Shampoo
This salt-free cleansing shampoo from ALFAPARF MILANO is an Italian professional salon-quality formula to maintain keratin-treated hair. It enhances the effects of keratin while gently cleansing the hair. The scalp-care shampoo is enriched with bagasse oil, collagen, and keratin for tangle-free, strong, and glossy hair. It keeps the hair smooth, soft, and manageable. The chemical-free formula gives you hair that feels like velvet and is easy to comb through.
Hair Type: Normal
Pros
- Smells good
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Paraffin-free
- Value for money
Cons
- Leaves a greasy feeling.
5. Best Anti-Frizz Formula:KERATHERAPY Keratin Infused Moisture Shampoo
This shampoo for frizzy hair from KERATHERAPY nourishes dull hair strands back to life. The gentle cleanser removes buildup and reduces frizz. It prolongs the effects of keratin protein treatment and makes the hair smooth, healthy, and strong. The proprietary Kerabond technology and natural ingredients lock in moisture and use keratin to replenish the hair and prevent breakage. The clarifying shampoo contains willow bark extract to strengthen and protect the hair from harmful chemicals and witch hazel extract to condition the scalp and relieve dryness. Use the KERATHERAPY shampoo regularly for restored elasticity, strength, health, and shine.
Hair Type: All
Pros
- Smells good
- Sulfate-free
- Value for money
Cons
None
Pro Tip6. Best For Gentle Cleanse:NYK1 Keratin And Color Aftercare Shampoo
This refreshing shampoo from NYK1 is ideal for keratin, color-treated hair, and extensions. The gentle cleanser offers deep cleansing to remove dirt, grime, and other impurities. Coconut oil moisturizes and deeply conditions the hair, making it soft and shiny. It prolongs the life of smoothing and straightening treatments without stripping the hair of its natural nutrients. The low-chemical formula keeps hair untangled and frizz-free while protecting it from scalp issues.
Hair Type: All
Pros
- Gentle
- Smells good
- Lightweight
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
- Slightly drying
"This shampoo has left my hair sleeker and well-moisturized. It has increased volume without irritating the scalp. The scent is also pleasing and does not trigger any nose-related sensitivities. Moreover, I use it on my tape-in extensions and it works pretty well on them too."
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 547 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
7. Best For Hair Repair:Yofing New Generation Salt-Free Shampoo
The Yofing New Generation Salt-free Shampoo is a high-end product that smooths and repairs hair strands without reducing volume. This shampoo for curly hair gives hair that is frizzy and unruly suppleness and a natural shine. It has Moroccan argan oil that hydrates, nourishes, and strengthens hair. This shampoo for dry scalp offers a trustworthy defense against heat damage and enhances the elasticity of the strands. Its hydrating formula makes the curls more manageable and easy to style. The shampoo soothes the scalp and leaves it completely clean by removing all dirt and grease.
Hair Type: Color and Chemical-Treated, Curly, Dry, and Damaged Hair
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Color-safe
- Sulfate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- No added preservatives
Cons
None
"This shampoo has worked well on my hair. It has improved the luster and strength of my hair. I saw its effects just after four washes. Its scent isn’t overwhelming and does not irritate my nose."
8. Best Moisturizing Formula:Pure Brazilian Anti-Frizz Shampoo
This hypoallergenic shampoo is enriched with keratin, argan oil, and acai that preserve the hair’s natural moisture, making it shiny and healthy. It also includes keratin, babassu oil, cocoa seed butter, and other vital nutrients to nourish the hair. The anti-stripping formula offers the best hair care and prevents breakage and split ends. This nourishing shampoo for damaged hair keeps the hair moisturized and enhances the hair color. It protects the hair cuticles and minimizes blow drying and styling time.
Hair Type: Damaged and Color-treated
Pros
- Smells good
- Color-safe
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Value for money
Cons
- Dries out the hair.
"This shampoo tackles my frizzy hair and maintains volume. It keeps my hair feeling soft without any product buildup. It has a pleasant scent which does not cause headaches. It manages greasiness and does not let my hair feel sticky."
9. Best Organic Formula:Paul Brown Hawaii Washe Elite Shampoo
The Wash Elite Shampoo from Paul Brown is specially formulated to provide structure to the hair shafts and add volume to the hair. It nurtures and nourishes abused hair and gives it a healthy texture. The shampoo forms a rich lather to rinse out dirt, grime, and other styling residues. The formula is enriched with kukui nuts, rich in essential fatty acids, and other natural, nourishing ingredients to preserve the hair quality. It improves damaged hair fibers, making the hair healthy and shiny.
Hair Type: Damaged and Chemically treated
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- All-natural ingredients
Cons
None
"I've been a fan of Paul Brown's hair care line for a long time. This shampoo maintains the quality of my hair and cleans it without leaving residue. It also imparts a decent shine, so I don’t feel the need to pair any conditioner when I’m washing my hair with this product. It does not irritate my scalp or make it feel itchy."
10. Best For Keratin-Treated Hair:LUXEORGANIX Rejuvenating Argan Oil Shampoo
This LUXEORGANIX shampoo is infused with the richness of Moroccan argan oil to moisturize, smoothen, and repair dull, damaged hair. The rejuvenating formula is specially designed for colored and keratin-treated hair. It contains antioxidants and vitamins for thermal protection from harmful UV rays. Vitamin B5 penetrates the cuticles to make the hair stronger and thicker. It nourishes hair regularly exposed to curling or straightening irons and blow dryers. This volumizing shampoo provides beautiful structure and volume to your hair, making it shiny, silky, and smooth. Check out the review to understand the tester’s experience of using the product.
Hair Type: Textured hair
Pros
- Smells good
- Lightweight
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Botanical blend
Cons
None
11. Best For UV Protection:LASIO Keratin-Infused Hypersilk Replenishing Shampoo
The daily miracle shampoo from LASIO is a keratin-infused formula that strengthens dull and damaged hair. It rebalances the hair and restores hair color. It protects the hair from treatment-induced damages and other stressors. The gentle shampoo contains protein and natural oils to nourish the cuticles. Keratin strengthens the hair’s main structure, increases the longevity of smoothening effects, and protects your locks from harmful UV rays. Carlag, a personal vlogger, used the shampoo on one of her important wash days. She says, “The consistency of this shampoo is super lightweight and a little does go a long way. I love what the shampoo does to my hair (ii).”
Hair Type: Color-treated
Pros
- Color-safe
- Gentle
- Pleasant scent
- Ideal for daily use
Cons
- May not suit very dry scalps.
"This keratin shampoo has left my hair feeling silky. It comes with a lovely scent that is not too overwhelming. It lathers well and does not make my hair heavy. It has also helped me reduce frizz to a minimum. It is a great addition to my hair care routine."
12. Best Alcohol-Free Formula:KERAGEN Sulfate Free Smoothing Shampoo
This shampoo from KERAGEN is infused with keratin, vitamins, panthenol, collagen, and jojoba oil. It is specially designed for smoothing treated hair and keeping it conditioned and nourished. The non-stripping formula keeps the shine intact. It gives a long-lasting effect to the treatment and maintains the smoothness of the hair. The high-quality ingredients make the hair healthy, smooth, and soft.
Hair Type: Frizzy
Pros
- Smells good
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phosphate-fee
- Alcohol-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
"This shampoo adds shine to my hair and reduces frizz. It cleanses without any product buildup. Its effects are also visible on my hair the next day. It increases softness and makes my hair easy to brush. The fragrance fades after a while."
13. Best For Damaged Hair Repair:PETER COPPOLA Legacy Keratin Concept
The Keratin Concept Shampoo from PETER COPPOLA is ideal for keratin and color-treated hair. The cleansing and soothing formula strengthens and repairs damaged hair. This salt-free shampoo works wonders for Brazillian blowouts. The pH-balanced formula offers advanced cleansing, minimizes scalp dryness, and prevents color loss. It prevents split ends and frizz while improving shine and color vibrancy.
Hair Type: Dry
Pros
- Color-safe
- pH-balanced
- Smells great
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
None
"This shampoo has a stable place in my hair care routine. It maintains the smoothness of my hair and does not cause product buildup. It also manages my hair’s appearance to keep it feeling soft and silky. It is ideal to be used twice or thrice a week."
What To Consider When Buying Best No Salt Shampoos
No-salt shampoos are becoming more and more popular for the hair benefits they offer. They do not contain sodium chloride, which is traditionally found in shampoos. Most importantly, these products are supposed to have a positive impact on your scalp since they don’t dry it out or irritate the skin as regular shampoos might. For those who are looking towards getting one or two, the following guides help you with what to look for.
- Check the quality: When you see the word “organic” on shampoo, it means that it has been produced without any harmful chemicals. Even if a shampoo does not say “organic” on the bottle, then make sure to look for other signs of quality like chemicals-free, color-safe, anti-frizz formula.
- Moisturizing: While choosing no salt shampoo make sure that the product hydrates your hair, and leaves your hair shiny, manageable, and healthy looking. Common ingredients like keratin, babassu oil, and cocoa seed butter hydrate the hair follicles and prevent split ends.
- Gentle Cleanse: This is perhaps the most important characteristic of no-salt shampoos. Avoid shampoo that dries out your locks or causes any type of itching.
- Color-treated hair: If you have colored hair, look for no shalt shampoo specifically curated for colored or chemically treated hair. It locks in moisture and minimizes color fading. It is rich in collagen and keratin which repairs damaged hair follicles.
- In-budget: If you are looking for a cheap shampoo so that you can save money, then remember that not all cheap no salt shampoos are just as great as their more expensive counterparts. So, choose wisely according to your price. Remember, healthy hair needs to be taken care of.
- Natural Ingredients: Choose shampoo enriched with natural ingredients like kukui nuts, antioxidants, vitamin B5, argan oil, and jojoba oil. These ingredients nourish the hair cuticles and strengthen the hair from the roots and minimize scalp dryness effectively.
- Chemical-free: Though no salt shampoo does not have sodium chloride, it does not mean that it is chemical-free as well. So make sure to check the ingredients listed. Stay away from chemicals like paraben, SLS, alcohol, phosphate, and gluten.
Infographic: Ingredients To Look For In No Salt Shampoos
Well-nourished, shiny hair is one of the best natural accessories to flaunt, and it all begins with a good shampoo. While choosing the best sodium chloride-free shampoos, one must keep in mind some key ingredients to look for in the formulations. These play a pivotal role in changing the overall hair and scalp health. Check out the infographic given below to find out more about the key ingredients and their benefits. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Whether frequent heat styling or experimenting with different hair colors, our tresses go through a lot every day. You need a cleansing routine with a unique shampoo product that will not strip off your scalp’s natural moisture. This is where sodium chloride-free shampoos come into the picture. These can work on oily hair, fine hair, or dry hair. The PURE nature Argan Oil Deep Hydra Nourishing Shampoo offers optimal nourishment and restores moisture levels, while the Pure Brazilian Anti-Frizz Shampoo works wonders in the prevention of breakage and split ends. The It’s a 10 Haircare Miracle Shampoo Plus Keratin provides frizz-free and soft hair. These shampoos do not have harsh surfactants or cleansing agents, so they lock moisture, prevent your hair color from fading too fast, and do not cause any irritation. They also restore and revive dull and brittle hair and promote healthy hair. The shampoos listed above in this article are free from any harsh chemicals, and some of them are also suitable for heat-styled or color-treated hair. Along with these shampoos, ensure to choose products and consume foods that stimulate hair growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does sodium chloride do to the hair?
Sodium chloride or salt in shampoo acts as a drying agent. If you have a dry hair type, this chemical may make it look lackluster. If you have keratin-treated hair, the sodium in shampoos may shorten the longevity of the treatment and make it less effective.
Does sodium chloride make the hair fall out?
If you have a sensitive, dry, itchy scalp, sodium chloride may aggravate the condition, causing hair fall.
Is sulfate-free shampoo the same as sodium chloride-free?
No, sulfate and sodium chloride are different ingredients and they serve different functions in a formulation.
Is there a shampoo without sodium?
Yes, there are shampoos devoid of sodium in any form.
Is sodium chloride safe in shampoo?
Although sodium chloride in shampoos is mostly safe, for some sensitive scalps it can cause dryness, itchiness, which, in turn, may lead to hair loss. It can also cause irritation in the eye on accidental contact.
Why do they put sodium in shampoo?
While sodium chloride is used to thicken the consistency of the shampoo, sodium sulfate is used to create a foamy, lathering effect.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a hair care enthusiast who has in-depth knowledge of the science and formulation of various hair care products. She knows what product works best for the various types of hair. So while choosing salt-free shampoos, she has gone through several reviews and customer feedback in various health and beauty forums to curate this list of the best for you. These sodium-chloride-free shampoos not only help enhance your keratin hair treatment adding that silky smooth shine to your hair, but also help repair and protect your hair from various environmental stressors.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
(i) Red Moon Rising Studios
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5XHSx0DrhU
(ii) Carlag
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3ZeTsL89DI
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