The wrong type of shampoo can cause frizz on your hair. There is evidence that a lot of ingredients used traditionally cause more problems than they solve. One such ingredient is alcohol. It should be noted that not all types of alcohol remove moisture from the hair shaft. Alcohol does not entirely cause brittleness and dryness. Consumers nowadays are more educated and examine the ingredients of the products they use daily. They want better results, and this led manufacturers to make entirely alcohol-free shampoos. To give your hair the best health, get the best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner, and witness the difference.
Different types of alcohol in products–best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner
Not all alcohols are made equal. The type of alcohol will depend on the molecular structures, and some alcohol will have thickening effects while some cause dryness on your hair until every strand is brittle. You only need to concern yourself with certain types of alcohol. Others can give your hair the amazing results you desire. The factor that affects alcohol is determined by the weight of the carbon molecules. Depending on the carbon molecules, the alcohol can either nourish or cause breakage in your hair.
Short-chain alcohol
Alcohol that are considered short-chained mix with water and also dissolves oil as well as other ingredients. Because of this, these types of alcohol are used to dissolve shampoo and all ingredients in it before they are infused into the liquid formula. These alcohols aid in the even dispersion of ingredients in the shampoo and, by extension–your hair. Short chains give them the ability for quick evaporation, thus decreasing drying time.
However, since these alcohols are combined with water and dissolve oils, the short-chain type often removes both of these components from the hair’s cuticle as it evaporates. As water and oil are removed, valuable moisture from the air is sucked out, and hair is left dry and frizzy.
Some types of short-chain alcohol
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Ethanol
- Propanol
- SD alcohol
- Propyl alcohol
- SD alcohol 40
- Alcohol denat
Fatty alcohols
The identifying characteristic of fatty alcohols are its longer chains. They have a length from anywhere to 12 to 20 carbon molecules. By comparison, short-chain alcohols will only have three or fewer carbon molecules. This longer chain alcohols are often found on natural ingredients such as vegetables and fruits as well as botanicals. They have higher carbon content and are regarded as fatty since they will feel oilier.
These alcohols are primarily used as emollients, which softens skin and hair in many beauty products.
Fatty alcohols are not just used as emollients they also do the following:
- They can act as a surfactant, which helps retain water and help the shampoo’s water remove dirt and oil from the hair.
- Fatty alcohol also works as a thickener and keeps formulations from being too thin or watery.
- They also act as an emulsion stabilizer and mix ingredients based on oil, with water to maintain the structure and consistency of the formula.
Fatty alcohols that are commonly used in shampoo formulations include:
- Lauryl
- Behenyl
- Cetyl
- Stearyl
- Myristyl
- Cetearyl
Other alcohols
Some alcohols will not fall into the categories mentioned, but they are being used in many hair care products. An example is benzyl, which has preservative properties. Propylene glycol is often used as a humectant since it attracts water and retains it on the hair shaft. The texture of your hair won’t be affected by these alcohols, so they should leave you with no worries.
Features to consider- best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner
Short-chain alcohols are not present in alcohol-free shampoos because this type of alcohol dries out the hair. Some formulas will also exclude fatty alcohols, which will result in a more expensive product because they will resort to pricier ingredients as a thickener, emulsifier, and surfactant. A shampoo that does not contain alcohol does not guarantee that it will be organic or natural. In fact, it may still contain harsh chemicals such as phthalates and sulfates. These two ingredients may be something you don’t want on your body.
Formula
Even if a shampoo is said to be alcohol-free it is best to investigate the ingredient list, so you will know exactly what you are putting on your hair. Suppose you want zero alcohol, even the fatty ones. In that case, you’ll have to closely read the ingredients because some brands may only consider short-chain alcohol in their definition of zero alcohol. Every brand will have its specific formula, and it may take some trial and error to find out what works best for your strands.
Scent
Alcohols aren’t exactly used to infuse scents in hair products, but since many alcohol-free products are of the organic type or all-natural, they’re often not heavily scented. These products utilize natural scents like lavender, coconut, or ginger.
Special hair-care needs
There is a wide variety of hair types, and there is no wonder that there will be different shampoo to cater to different needs. Your hair may have special needs that will narrow down your search for the perfect alcohol-free shampoo. For example, curly hair will need hydration, while very fine hair will need a more lightweight formula that won’t make it feel heavy. Other options include alcohol-free dandruff shampoo and clarifying as well as toner shampoos.
Volume
The topic we’re talking about here is not the volumizing property of shampoo but rather the volume referring to the shampoo amount. Alcohol-free shampoos come at a higher price range, especially if organic ingredients are used. You need to think about the people who will be using the shampoo. Will only one person be using it, or will the entire family be using it? You need to get the best deal, and buying in bulk may give you savings, but overall, it may still be a hefty price to pay for shampoo.
Best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner –top TIPS
If the shampoo that works for your friend doesn’t work out for you, don’t worry. Your hair type and level of activity, as well as lifestyle factors, affect the results you get from a hair product. You will have unique needs that will probably require a different product altogether. You must try different products and get the perfect match for your hair.
When you have chosen a product, gently massage the shampoo onto your scalp to drive away the buildup and clean the hair up to the roots. Use a gentle motion to prevent irritation, which can result in the scalp releasing excessive oils as you dry your hair.
If you mix or change brands frequently, it may end in uneven results for your hair. It may end up either over or under conditioned.
A lot of brands design their products to complement each other and be used together. If you use other brands, they may use more moisturizers in their shampoo, so you may not be needing as much conditioner. Formulations change with each brand.
A lot of experts on beauty recommend washing the hair with shampoo two to four times a week. This frequency will depend on your activity level. If you shampoo every day, you might remove the natural oils on your hair and scalp, and it will thus lose moisture.
Commonly asked questions–best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner
Q: Are some hair types more vulnerable to alcohol’s drying effects?
Some hair types will be more susceptible to damage by alcohol. Hair that is either curly or coarse is a lot drier than normal hair. As a result, alcohol will leave it even more frizzy compared to normal hair. Ultra-fine hair can get damaged easily because it has a tendency to be more sensitive to every kind of hair product.
Q: If my hair dries out because of alcohol, can other hair care products with no alcohol be better for me?
Alcohol is present in all kinds of hair products. However, a lot of conditioners, mousse, gels, and even pomades are labeled and marketed as alcohol free. The list goes on. You need to analyze the ingredients on these products and find out the best formulation that works for you and will also match your budget. There are many alcohol-free options out there.
Q: Are there alcohol-free shampoos available for children?
A lot of hair products for children are alcohol-free.
Brands use an alcohol-free formulation because these ingredients can cause stinging in the eyes. Parents know all too well that bathing a child and getting suds in their eyes will cause them to scream. Thus, alcohol-free shampoos are a great relief, clean thoroughly, and doesn’t leave your child in tears.
Best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner—Top 3 Products
OUR TOP PICK!
Laritelle Organic Shampoo
This best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner fights hair loss and promotes the growth of healthy hair. Antioxidant-rich organic herbs used in Ayurveda, such as lavender ginger rosemary and patchouli, are infused in this best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner. Clove ingredients promote hair growth and strengthen hair and give the scalp stimulation resulting in rejuvenated hair follicles. The presence of clary sage in this best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner helps strengthen hair on the cell level. Premature hair loss is prevented, and scalp oils are balanced, which will result in lustrous shine. This best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner is entirely safe for hair that has undergone color treatment. It is kind and gentle to your scalp and hair. It nourishes all the way through, and it is good for all hair types.
This best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner is made from 100% high-quality ingredients, 75% of which is certified organic, and 25% is wildcrafted or naturally derived.
Plants used in this best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner have not been treated with any kind of chemicals.
With this best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner, you will get an earth-friendly product that is safe and non-toxic. No harmful chemicals are used. You are assured that this product contains zero sulfates, alcohol, parabens, gluten, and phthalates. You also get the guarantee that this best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner is GMO-free and not tested on animals. Vegan and cruelty-free! The packaging is recyclable plastic.
Get a product with scientific and spiritual benefits that follow the principles of Ayurveda. Balance and support your chakra. Promote healing on your hair and gain wellness and physical, spiritual, and emotional centeredness every time you shower. Proudly made in the USA!
Runners Up
SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore for Damaged Hair Shampoo
Shea Moisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner strengthen hair that is dry and damaged. It reverses the effects of chemical treatments from hot tools and color dyes. Top ingredients include black castor oil and shea butter. These are present in this best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner and give the benefits of repair and moisturization. Peppermint oil and apple cider vinegar are also added to give vigor to the scalp. You can be assured that this best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner has zero alcohol, even the good kind of alcohol. It also has zero sulfates, and on top of that also cruelty-free!
This best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner is free of sulfates. It has clarifying properties that stop build up and infuses hair with nourishment and moisturization. This shampoo is paraben-free and is perfect for those who get regular color treatments, straightening, or perm styling. Kinky, curly, or wavy hair types also benefit from this best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner.
This best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner strengthens hair with damages and color-treated hair and hair that has undergone severe and constant styling. This shampoo is guaranteed cruelty free and helps relax hair by gently cleansing and moisturizing.
Free & Clear Hair Shampoo
This best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner comes from the company that brought you vanicream. This product is no-frills and low lather shampoo and is popular since it doesn’t contain harmful ingredients such as parabens, lanolin, sulfates, gluten, and alcohol. Dermatologists recommend this best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner for people with sensitive skin and those who suffer from skin issues such as eczema and other similar conditions. This is a great product for people who want something simple and basic in their beauty arsenal.
This best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner removes flaking and scaling and balances oils on the scalp. Buildup from hair products such as conditioners and hair sprays are cleansed and removed. This product is gentle enough to be used daily.
People with sensitive skin will benefit from its formula. It helps control the oiliness in the scalp. It stops the buildup of grime as well as residue from hair products. This best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner leave hair clean and manageable.
Final Thoughts
Many options on the market can give health and optimum benefits for your hair. If you feel that alcohol is causing adverse effects on your hair, you don’t have to feel trapped and think you have no other choice since alcohol is a universal ingredient in hair care products. There are tons of best alcohol free shampoo and conditioner. All you need to do is conduct a bit of research and read the labels to choose the most nourishing ingredients that will match your hair’s needs.