The science behind sulfate-free cosmetics

Cosmetics Design USA highlighted research coauthored by the University of Cincinnati's Stephen Herman that examined advancements in the development of sulfate-free cosmetics products. 

Herman, adjunct professor in the Cosmetic Science Program in UC's James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, and Evelyn Su of Sino Lion USA, recently published the research in the journal Cosmetics.

Consumers are increasingly demanding sulfate-free formulations in addition to sustainable and eco-friendly products. However, the authors noted "the objective of sulfate-free personal cleansing technology should not be aimed solely at the absence of 'sulfate' wording in the list of ingredients, but on the true benefits in personal use and in environmental effects."

Sulfates have been common ingredients in personal care products because they are cost effective and help produce foam, but the researchers said these materials can "excessively strip oil from the skin, scalp, and hair, breaking barrier integrity."

Herman and Su said amino acid-based ingredients are the next generation of safe, sustainable and biodegradable ingredients.

Read the Cosmetics Design USA article.

Featured photo at top of a bottle of shampoo labeled "sulfate free." Photo/Alona Siniehina/iStock Photo.