13 Best Sulfate-Free Shampoos For Fine Hair (2024)
Bring hydration and volume to your fine hair to keep it healthy looking with each hair wash.
Jill Turnbull is an internationally acclaimed freelance hairstylist, colorist, and makeup artist with over 47 years of experience. She founded her own beauty brand and her work has been featured in editorial magazines worldwide.
Jill is also a highly sought-after educator, renowned for her direct, meticulous, and modern approach to hair, makeup, and styling for fashion shoots and advertising campaigns.
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Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
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: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.
Read full bio of Swathi E
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Do you love using a foamy, bubbly shampoo? Then, you gotta thank sulfate for it. But then why is all the rage around sulfate-free shampoos for fine hair? Well, there is a good reason behind that. Sulfates are used in products in the form of sodium laureate sulfate or sodium lauryl sulfate. They are harsh cleansing ingredients that make your hair dry, dull, and brittle. And if you already have fine hair, the last thing you would want is more dryness and hair breakage. So, even though they make your hair squeaky clean, many consumers do not consider it worth the potential damage.
So, people are now shifting to sulfate-free shampoos that use alternate gentler cleansing ingredients that preserve the health of your hair while removing gunk and impurities. They help the hair retain and regain hair shine and youthfulness. They also help enhance the vibrancy of color-treated hair as well. However, they do not create much lather or foam and wash out easily. If you have fine hair and want to gradually make it voluminous naturally, you must check out our list of the 13 best sulfate-free shampoos below!
In This Article
Flaunt Beautiful Hair With The 13 Best Sulfate-Free Shampoos For Fine Hair
1. Best Gentle Formula: Pura D’Or Original Gold Label Anti Hair Thinning Shampoo
If you are stressing out about excessive hair fall and losing precious volume, this shampoo can solve your problems. This shampoo is a clinically tested formula proven to reduce hair thinning due to breakage, and increase volume, hair strength, and shine. This hair protection formula is infused with gentle gentle formula is infused with herbal ingredients and biotin, which increase volume and thickness, so you can finally bid farewell to thin, fine hair forever. It also has vitamin E, which protects the hair shafts from further damage and promotes growth. If this was not all, this sulfate-free shampoo for thin hair effectively cleanses the scalp and enhances overall hair health. You can check this video detailing a tester’s experience with the product if you need to know more.
Pros
- Herbal ingredients
- Protects hair from damage
- Includes biotin
- Reduces hair fall
- Improved hair manageability
Cons
- Some may find the strong fragrance overpowering
Did You Know?
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 9,454 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
2. Best For All Hair Types: Ogx Hydrating + Tea Tree Mint Shampoo
Nourish and hydrate your beloved tresses with this sulfate-free lightweight shampoo for fine hair. The formula is infused with tea tree oil and mint extract, rejuvenating and detangling all hair textures. This can be a perfect haircare routine as it has milk protein to nourish and hydrate hair while reducing the appearance of split ends for a healthy-looking glow. So, whether you want to gain healthy, bouncy curls or want volume for your straight hair, this hydrating hair shampoo will get the job done. Provide the best restorative care to your tresses today! To find out more about this product, check this video review out.
Pros
- Hydrating
- Detangling
- Suitable for all hair textures
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May leave a sticky residue
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 11,402 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
3. Best For Color-Treated Hair: John Frieda Volume Lift Weightless Shampoo
Limp and lifeless hair can be pretty frustrating, especially if you want to style and it just won’t listen to you. The John Frieda Volume Lift shampoo is a good sulfate-free shampoo for fine hair. The formula includes air-silk technology, which enhances fullness and volume. It is also safe to use on color-treated hair. The shampoo rejuvenates hair strands, making them thick and bouncy. The shampoo is quite gentle, so it will leave your hair feeling hydrated with every wash. Check out some reviews on Amazon to learn more about the product and its effectiveness.
Pros
- Hydrating
- Suitable for fine and colored hair
- Air-silk and volumizing formula
- It breaks down product buildup
Cons
- Not vegan
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 670 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
| Pura D'Or Original Gold Label Anti Hair Thinning Shampoo Best Gentle Formula | Ogx Hydrating + Tea Tree Mint Shampoo Best For All Hair Types | John Frieda Volume Lift Weightless Shampoo Best For Color-Treated Hair | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 14.11 Ounces | - | 8.8 ounces |
| Hair Type | Thin | All | Fine |
| Dimensions | 3 x 3 x 7.5 inches | - | - |
| Dimensions | - | 4 x 5 x 6 inches | 1.87 x 3 x 8.22 inches. |
| Weight | - | 13 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 9,454 | 11,402 | 670 |
| Price | $25.49 | $5.72 | $7.49 |
4. Best For Sensitive Scalp: Free & Clear Shampoo For Sensitive Skin
As mentioned before, sulfates can be pretty damaging to your hair. Hence, we recommend using this dermatologist-tested shampoo because it is meant for sensitive skin and does not dry out your hair. It contains purified water and glycerine to nourish hair and reduce split ends. In addition, the hydrating formula is free from any common chemical irritants like dyes, lanolin, parabens, and other preservatives, so you rest assured your hair is safe. It is also pH balanced, so it suits all hair types. and it is perfect for good scalp health. If you are an absolute beginner, this video review detailing a tester’s experience with the product might prove to be useful.
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types, including hair
- Works on sensitive scalp
- Unscented
- Dermatologist tested
- pH-balanced formula
Cons
- May not suit colored hair
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 1,611 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
5. Best For Fine Hair: Biolage Volume Bloom Shampoo
This is one of the best sulfate-free volumizing shampoos for fine hair in the market right now! It boosts your hair with long-lasting volume and gently cleanses your scalp without irritating it. Infused with soy protein and citric acid, this one cleanses your hair gently without stripping it from its natural oils. Haircare professionals highly recommend shampoo because of its hydrating and shine-enhancing properties. The best part is that this shampoo is vegan and not tested on animals.
Pros
- Long-lasting volume
- Suitable for fine hair
- Hydrating
- Enhances hair shine
Cons
- It may not suit curly hair
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 9,426 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
6. Best For Brittle Hair: Pureolgy Hydrate Sheer Shampoo
So, you have colored your hair and want a safe shampoo that doesn’t ruin the beautiful hue? Then this is the product for you! This shampoo deeply nourishes and hydrates colored hair. It is formulated with key ingredients like jojoba oil, green tea extract, and sage. It also has a signature lightweight blend of aromatherapy essentials like bergamot, lavender, and patchouli so that you will have amazing-smelling hair after each use. Conduct a patch test before use to avoid any reaction.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Moisturizing
- Pleasant fragrance
- Suitable for dry, brittle hair
Cons
- May cause an allergic reaction
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 343 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
7. Best Moisturizing: ArtNaturals Argan Oil Shampoo
A must-have addition to your hair care regime, this one contains argan oil and vitamin E to promote thick and healthy hair growth. This shampoo’s formula includes nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, and rosemary, which help with cell renewal, revitalize hair follicles, and reduce hair damage. What’s more, it also strengthens hair and decreases hair fall and thinning. In addition, the shampoo has natural botanical oils that soothe, nourish a dry scalp, and increase hair manageability. This product is not tested on animals which is why many users recommend it.
Pros
- Reduces hair fall and thinning
- Revitalizes hair follicles
- Moisturizes the scalp
- Prevents hair breakage
Cons
- It may not breakdown product buildup
"This artnaturals shampoo nourishes my scalp and cleanses my hair. It strengthens my strands and prevents hair breakage. I like its scent, which does not overwhelm my senses. The formula repairs my brittle strands. It lathers well and spreads easily on my hair. The soapy suds also wash off easily without leaving residues."
8. Best For Damaged Hair: PureNature Argan Oil Nourishing Shampoo
This shampoo works on all types of skin and hair textures, making it hair care essential. It works by restoring moisture levels and hydrating the scalp for strong and beautiful hair. It prevents dandruff and keeps chemically treated hair soft and healthy. This hair rejuvenation formula is infused with vitamins and antioxidants, which help repair brittle and damaged hair, and the shampoo also softens and soothes with curl definition. Multiple reviewers found that this gentle shampoo relieves itchy scalp and makes the hair healthy, shiny and smooth.
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- Prevents dandruff
- No parabens
- Enhances volume
Cons
- Some find it to have a slippery consistency
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 861 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
9. Best For Chemically-Treated Hair: Boldify Hair Boost Shampoo
This rosemary-scented wonder is a fantastic add-on to your hair care routine, especially if you have a hair fall problem. The product will provide a much-needed shot of volume to tired and limp hair, which results in shiny and bouncy strands that make heads turn wherever you go. This hair repair formula is infused with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and rosemary extract, along with vitamins and minerals, making it perfect for colored and chemically treated hair. It provides the best restorative care to your hair while also adding volume to your thin and fragile hair. That’s why the reviews on Amazon suggest giving this product a try.
Pros
- Reduces hair fall
- Provides volume and shine
- Suitable for chemically treated hair
- Reduces breakage
Cons
- It May be intense for sensitive scalp
10. Best Keratin Infused: Bingo Hair Care Sulfate Free Shampoo
This keratin shampoo for fine hair has been a go-to product for hair care enthusiasts all over the world and for good reason! It is a moisturizing and clarifying shampoo that doesn’t strip the scalp’s natural oils and keeps it from drying out. This hair revitalization formula includes active ingredients like keratin, vitamin E, and argan oil to ensure your stands are nourished from root to tip and look and feel healthy. These components also increase hair elasticity and restore dull hair, making it strong and shiny, worthy of praise. Multiple reviewers recommend using this product to add shine and bounce to limp, dry, and damaged hair.
Pros
- Moisturizing
- Enhances hair elasticity
- Strengthens hair follicles
- Suitable for natural hair types
Cons
- Not suitable for chemically sensitive hair
11. Best Lightweight Formula: Verb Ghost Shampoo
The Verb Ghost Shampoo is a lightweight product that does a phenomenal job at cleansing and conditioning your hair while protecting the hair color and detangling any knots in your hair. This hair softness formula is infused with moringa oil, and it provides it with essential nutrients that smooth out frizzy hair while keeping it soft and manageable. Ideal for days that require a deep cleansing, this lightweight formula enriches hair and prevents breakage. Multiple reviewers love this product as it helps with deep cleanse, lathers well, and has a mild, calming fragrance that does not irritate the senses.
Pros
- Deep cleansing
- Suitable for color-treated hair
- Smoothes frizzy hair
- Lightweight
Cons
- It may leave a greasy residue
"I can finally not worry about my frizzy tresses, thanks to this formula. It moisturizes my hair lightly and lends it a smooth finish. My hair looks clean and bouncy. The product also has reduced my hair fall issues. With consistent use, my hair looks thick and voluminous."
12. Best Volumizing: OUAI Shampoo For Fine Hair
This shampoo is a definite cult favorite, and hair care professionals and beauty influencers highly recommend it. This is the best salon shampoo for fine hair, and as it adds the perfect volume and bounce for dull, tired tresses. The formula contains keratin, biotin, and chia seed, for strengthening and nourishing the scalp and hair strands. Trust us and grab this one, and we know you won’t regret it!
Pros
- Suitable for fine hair
- Provides volume
- Hydrating
- Strengthen hair follicles
- Fresh fragrance
Cons
- May not be suitable for thick and coarse hair
13. Best Vegan: Love Beauty And Planet Coconut Water & Mimosa Flower Sulphate-Free Shampoo
This delicious coconut-scented shampoo is great for chemically treated fine hair, and it is vegan! The sulfate-free formula is infused with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and mimosa flower extract, which results in hydrated and soft hair that will have you running your hands all over it. The affordable shampoo is also free from any synthetic dyes or parabens, so you don’t have to worry about excessive hair fall out or an irritated oily scalp. Check out some reviews on Amazon if you want to know more about the product.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Hydrated
- Provides volume and thickness
Cons
- Heavy consistency
"This shampoo works gently on my delicate scalp. It deep cleanses and volumizes my hair. The formula leaves my hair looking glossy and moisturized. I like that it foams up easily and delivers a relaxing experience. It also smells delightful."
Now that you are aware of the 13 best sulfate-free shampoos for fine hair let’s look at some essential factors you must keep in mind before investing in the perfect one.
Buying Guide For Selecting The Best Sulfate-Free Shampoo For Fine Hair
- Ingredients
Sulfate-free shampoos
usually have natural ingredients like jojoba oils, coconut oils, argan oil, green tea extract, and tea tree oils. These are clarifying and moisturizing ingredients that nourish and strengthen the hair follicles.
- Volumizing properties
This factor is particularly important if you have fine hair. Look for shampoos that infuse volume into your hair, making it strong and bouncy. The shampoo should be designed for fine hair to bless you with thicker hair and enhance elasticity.
- Cleansing ability
Ensure that you choose a gentle cleansing formula when choosing a shampoo for fine hair. It should retain the scalp’s natural oils and not irritate the skin. Also, it should maintain the scalp’s pH levels.
Infographic: Things To Consider Before Buying A Sulfate-Free Shampoo For Fine Hair
Sulfates strip off your hair’s natural oils and turn it brittle over time. Thankfully, we no longer have to make do with them since sulfate-free shampoos are here. However, the choice can be tricky. So, check out the infographic below to learn what factors to consider when buying a sulfate-free shampoo, especially if you have fine hair. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Repeated usage of harsh chemical cleansing substances like sulfates can make your hair dehydrated, dry and brittle. Hair stylist Jill Turnbull says, “Sulfate-free shampoos are becoming increasingly popular due to their gentler cleansing ingredients that preserve hair health while removing impurities. They are especially beneficial for those with fine hair, preventing further hair dryness and breakage.”
Sulfate-free shampoos have natural and nourishing cleansing components that are gentle and do not strip your hair of its natural oils. They help retain the shine of your tresses and enhance the texture of the color-treated hair. Ensure your sulfate-free shampoo has hydrating ingredients that add lasting moisture to the strands. You can try the Pura D’Or Original Gold Label Anti Hair Thinning Shampoo which promotes hair growth as well as overall hair health, the Free & Clear Shampoo For Sensitive Skin which nourishes the strands and reduces split ends, or the Biolage Volume Bloom Shampoo which enhances hair volume and offers a gentle cleansing experience. “This article recommends some of the best sulfate-free shampoos for fine hair, each with unique features such as herbal ingredients, biotin, tea tree oil, and air-silk technology. Choosing the right sulfate-free shampoo can help enhance hair shine, manageability, and volume while reducing hair fall and split ends,” Jill Turnbull notes. A thorough review of the product descriptions is recommended to help you avoid greasy and sticky formulas. You can also check out the reviews left by users to learn more about the products.
Why Trust Stylecraze
The author, Kirtana Divakar, is a hair care enthusiast and finds her passion in helping people pick the right products for their locks through her well-researched reviews. She recommends using sulfate-free shampoos for fine hair because sulfates tend to dry out the strands and make them brittle. So, she has compiled this list of the best sulfate-free shampoos after thorough research and considering reviews from users. These products are gentle on the hair and strengthen your tresses right from their roots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sulfate-free shampoo good for fine hair?
Yes, it is. Provided that the shampoo has natural ingredients and is suitable for your hair type; especially, if you have chemically treated hair.
How often should fine thin hair be washed?
Fine hair has a delicate texture and should be washed at least two to three times a week. Ensure that you use a gentle clarifying shampoo.
Can sulfate-free shampoo cause baldness?
No, they don’t. Sulfate-free shampoos don’t inflame the roots, and it doesn’t irritate the scalp, which can be a major reason for hair fall.
Do sulfate-free shampoos dry out hair?
Not really; they are quite hydrating and nourishing to the hair. Sulfate shampoos tend to strip the hair from natural oils and make it dry and brittle.
Is sulfate-free shampoo good for daily washing or use?
Yes. Using sulfate-free shampoos regularly can keep your hair from turning brittle and damaged. These shampoos with gentle formulas clean your tresses without causing skin or scalp irritation or dryness.
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