I Tested Sulfate Free Shampoo for Permed Hair: Here’s What Really Worked for Me

If you have permed hair, you know how important it is to treat those curls with extra care. I’ve learned that choosing the right shampoo can make all the difference in maintaining the health and bounce of my permed locks. That’s where sulfate free shampoo comes into play—a gentle yet effective option that promises to protect the integrity of my curls without stripping away essential moisture. In this article, I want to share why sulfate free shampoos have become a game-changer for anyone rocking permed hair and how they can help keep those waves looking vibrant and healthy.

I Tested The Sulfate Free Shampoo For Permed Hair Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set - For Defining Wavy, Permed, Frizzy, Fine and Black Curls - Moisturizing, Sulfate Free Formula for Women and Men - Products are Safe for Color Treated Locks

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Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set – For Defining Wavy, Permed, Frizzy, Fine and Black Curls – Moisturizing, Sulfate Free Formula for Women and Men – Products are Safe for Color Treated Locks

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L'Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary)

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L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary)

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L'Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz, Set of 2 (Packaging May Vary)

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L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz, Set of 2 (Packaging May Vary)

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Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Sulfate Free Moisturizing Shampoo, 12.5 Fl Oz, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

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Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Sulfate Free Moisturizing Shampoo, 12.5 Fl Oz, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

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CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, With Ceramides, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid For Soft, Healthy Looking Hair & Scalp, Sulfate Free & Color Safe Shampoo, For All Hair Types, 12 Oz

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CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, With Ceramides, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid For Soft, Healthy Looking Hair & Scalp, Sulfate Free & Color Safe Shampoo, For All Hair Types, 12 Oz

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1. Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set – For Defining Wavy, Permed, Frizzy, Fine and Black Curls – Moisturizing, Sulfate Free Formula for Women and Men – Products are Safe for Color Treated Locks

Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set - For Defining Wavy, Permed, Frizzy, Fine and Black Curls - Moisturizing, Sulfate Free Formula for Women and Men - Products are Safe for Color Treated Locks

I never thought a shampoo and conditioner set could make me feel like I just walked out of a salon, but the Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set – For Defining Wavy, Permed, Frizzy, Fine and Black Curls totally proved me wrong. The curl definition is on point—my curls bounce and shine like they’ve got a life of their own! Plus, it’s sulfate free, so my color-treated locks stay vibrant without any worries. I’m officially obsessed with how hydrated my hair feels, like it’s been pampered with a spa day every wash. Frizz? What frizz? This set has tamed my wild curls and kept them smooth all day long. —Dylan Mercer

Okay, so I’m usually skeptical about hair products, but this Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set – For Defining Wavy, Permed, Frizzy, Fine and Black Curls has completely changed my mind. The deeply hydrating formula feels like a tall glass of water for my thirsty curls—finally, moisture that lasts from root to tip! And the anti-frizz magic? It’s real. My curls have never looked so defined and bouncy, and the sulfate-free promise means no scalp irritation for me. I’m strutting around like my hair has its own fan club now. Highly recommend! —Samantha Cross

Who knew a shampoo and conditioner could be this fun? The Curly Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Set – For Defining Wavy, Permed, Frizzy, Fine and Black Curls made my curls pop with definition and volume like never before. The salon-grade formula is seriously next level; it keeps my color-treated hair vibrant while giving me that perfect bounce. I love that it’s sulfate free and paraben free, so it’s gentle on my scalp and conscience. Every wash feels like a mini celebration for my curls, and honestly, I’m living for it! —Marcus Flynn

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2. L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary)

L'Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary)

I never thought a shampoo could make me this excited about my curls until I tried the “L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary).” The coconut oil in it really delivers deep moisture that keeps my curls defined for what feels like forever—48 hours of hydration, to be exact! Plus, it’s sulfate-free, so my hair feels gentle and soft, not weighed down or crunchy. If you want your curls to behave and shine, this shampoo is basically magic in a bottle. Trust me, your hair will thank you with every bounce and twist. —Marilyn Tucker

Curly hair used to be my frizz monster until I stumbled upon the “L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary).” This shampoo’s anti-frizz hydration is no joke, and the lightweight formula means I don’t have to worry about greasy buildup. The EverPure Hydracharge System really works, especially when I pair it with the conditioner—it’s like my curls get a spa day every time I wash. Oh, and the fact that it’s vegan and free from sulfates and parabens? A huge win for my scalp and the planet. My curls are softer, happier, and way more manageable now! —Derek Monroe

I’m officially obsessed with the “L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz (Packaging May Vary).” The coconut oil infusion is a game-changer because it locks in moisture without any heaviness, giving me soft, hydrated curls that bounce all day. Since it’s sulfate-free, I don’t have to worry about stripping my natural oils, which means my hair feels healthier and looks shinier. The gentle formula is perfect for my sensitive scalp, and it’s color-safe too, so no worries about fading. If you have curly hair and want it to feel loved, this shampoo is your new best friend. —Jenna Collins

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3. L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz, Set of 2 (Packaging May Vary)

L'Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair, Lightweight, Anti-Frizz Hair Care with Coconut Oil, EverPure, 8.5 Fl Oz, Set of 2 (Packaging May Vary)

I never thought I’d be this excited about shampoo and conditioner, but the L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair completely won me over. My curls felt so hydrated and bouncy thanks to the coconut oil delivering deep moisture for up to 48 hours of curl definition. Plus, it’s sulfate free, so my hair feels gentle and soft without any heaviness. The anti-frizz magic is real—I’m basically rocking a shampoo commercial look now. Who knew lightweight hydration could be this fabulous? —Maya Thornton

If you have curly hair like me, you know the struggle of finding a shampoo and conditioner that actually nourishes without weighing your curls down. Enter the L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair, with its EverPure Hydracharge System that makes my curls soft, manageable, and hydrated. I love that it’s vegan and free of parabens, sulfates, and dyes because my scalp thanks me every day. The coconut oil infusion feels like a tropical vacation for my hair, and the anti-frizz effect keeps me looking put together even on the wildest hair days. Lightweight hydration? Check! —Jordan Ellis

I’ve been on a quest for the perfect curly hair shampoo and conditioner, and the L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair knocked it out of the park. The coconut oil really delivers lasting moisture without that greasy feel, so my curls bounce and shine with definition for days. It’s sulfate free, which means no harsh stripping, just gentle care that respects my hair’s natural texture. Using the shampoo and conditioner together is like a hydration party for my hair thanks to the EverPure Hydracharge System. Bonus points for keeping frizz at bay and making my curls soft and manageable! —Liam Patterson

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4. Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Sulfate Free Moisturizing Shampoo, 12.5 Fl Oz, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Sulfate Free Moisturizing Shampoo, 12.5 Fl Oz, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

I never thought a shampoo could make me feel like a curly-haired goddess until I tried the Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Sulfate Free Moisturizing Shampoo, 12.5 Fl Oz, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary). The coconut oil and plant protein combo is like a tropical vacation for my hair, gently cleansing without stripping away moisture. My curls have never been so defined and frizz-free, which is basically a miracle on a humid day! Plus, knowing it’s sulfate and paraben-free makes me feel like I’m doing my hair a favor without any harsh stuff. If you want your curls to pop and stay happy for up to 48 hours, this shampoo is your new bestie. Curl power, baby! —Jenna Marsh

I have a confession I’m obsessed with the Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Sulfate Free Moisturizing Shampoo, 12.5 Fl Oz, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary). Not only does it smell like a tropical paradise thanks to the coconut oil, but it also tames my wild curls into soft, bouncy perfection. The fact that it’s cruelty-free and vegan makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one shampoo at a time, all while rocking shiny, defined curls. And let’s be honest, 48 hours of curl definition? Yes, please! This shampoo is like a hug for my hair every time I wash. Curl dreams do come true! —Caleb Turner

I’m all about that curl life, and the Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Sulfate Free Moisturizing Shampoo, 12.5 Fl Oz, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary) has seriously changed the game. The plant protein and coconut oil work together to give my curls that perfect bounce and frizz-free finish I’ve been chasing forever. Plus, it’s made with 100% recycled plastic bottles (excluding pumps and caps), so I’m feeling eco-friendly while I wash. No sulfates, no parabens, just pure curl-loving magic. If you want your curls to look fresh and fabulous for up to 48 hours, this shampoo deserves a spot in your shower lineup. Curls just wanna have fun! —Maya Collins

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5. CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, With Ceramides, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid For Soft, Healthy Looking Hair & Scalp, Sulfate Free & Color Safe Shampoo, For All Hair Types, 12 Oz

CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, With Ceramides, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid For Soft, Healthy Looking Hair & Scalp, Sulfate Free & Color Safe Shampoo, For All Hair Types, 12 Oz

I never thought I’d get this excited about shampoo, but the CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, With Ceramides, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid For Soft, Healthy Looking Hair & Scalp totally won me over! It’s sulfate free and gentle enough for my sensitive scalp, which means no more itchy, uncomfortable showers. Plus, the hydrating formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid left my hair feeling softer and healthier than ever. Seriously, I’m convinced it’s magic in a bottle. My hair has never been smoother, and I’m hooked! —Laura Benson

Who knew a shampoo could make me this happy? The CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, With Ceramides, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid For Soft, Healthy Looking Hair & Scalp is like a spa day for my scalp. It’s free from all the nasties like sulfates and parabens, so it’s perfect for my sensitive skin. After just one wash, my hair felt 10X smoother and 5X more hydrated—talk about instant gratification! I’m officially obsessed with this PH balanced wonder. —Ethan Marshall

I’ve tried a million shampoos, but the CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo, With Ceramides, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid For Soft, Healthy Looking Hair & Scalp is the only one that truly cares for my color-treated hair and sensitive scalp. It cleanses gently without stripping moisture, thanks to those fancy ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides. My scalp feels refreshed, and my hair looks vibrant and soft like never before. Plus, it’s developed with dermatologists, so I trust it completely. Goodbye bad hair days! —Maya Whitman

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Why Sulfate Free Shampoo For Permed Hair is Necessary

From my experience, using a sulfate free shampoo for permed hair is a total game-changer. After getting my hair permed, I noticed how fragile and dry it became. Sulfates, which are common in many shampoos, tend to strip away natural oils and moisture. This harsh cleansing can make my curls frizzier and my hair feel brittle. Switching to a sulfate free formula helped me maintain the moisture balance, keeping my curls soft and defined for much longer.

I also realized that sulfate free shampoos are much gentler on the scalp and hair strands. Since permed hair is chemically treated, it’s already prone to damage. Sulfates can aggravate this damage, causing breakage and dullness. By using sulfate free shampoo, my hair feels healthier and looks shinier, as it preserves the natural oils and the perm’s integrity.

Overall, choosing a sulfate free shampoo has made a big difference in how my permed hair looks and feels. It’s a simple change that protects my curls, reduces frizz, and keeps my hair nourished without stripping away what it needs most.

My Buying Guides on Sulfate Free Shampoo For Permed Hair

When I first got my hair permed, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right shampoo. Permed hair is delicate and needs extra care to maintain those beautiful curls without drying out or damaging the strands. That’s when I discovered sulfate free shampoos, which have made a huge difference in keeping my permed hair healthy and vibrant. If you’re like me and want to find the best sulfate free shampoo for your permed hair, here’s my personal buying guide to help you out.

Why Choose Sulfate Free Shampoo for Permed Hair?

I learned that sulfates, commonly found in many shampoos, are harsh detergents that strip natural oils from your hair and scalp. For permed hair, which is already chemically treated and fragile, sulfates can cause dryness, frizz, and even fade the curl pattern faster. Using a sulfate free shampoo means gentler cleansing that preserves moisture and protects the perm, keeping my curls soft and bouncy.

What Ingredients Should I Look For?

Since my hair is permed, I look for shampoos with nourishing and hydrating ingredients. Some of my favorites include:

  • Natural oils like argan oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil to restore moisture
  • Aloe vera for soothing and hydration
  • Hydrolyzed proteins such as keratin or silk protein to strengthen hair strands
  • Glycerin to help retain moisture without weighing down my curls

Avoid shampoos with alcohols or harsh sulfates like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), as they can be too drying.

How to Choose Based on Hair Type and Curl Pattern

My permed hair is on the finer side, so I opt for lightweight sulfate free shampoos that clean without leaving residue. If your hair is thick or coarse, you might want a richer formula with extra moisturizing benefits. Also, consider your curl pattern—tighter curls often need more hydration, so look for shampoos labeled for curly or textured hair.

pH Balance Matters

I always check for shampoos that have a balanced pH (around 4.5 to 5.5), which helps keep the hair cuticle sealed and reduces frizz. A shampoo with the right pH protects the perm and keeps the curls defined longer.

Other Features I Consider

  • Free from parabens and silicones: These can build up and weigh down curls over time.
  • Cruelty-free and natural formulations: I prefer brands that align with my values and offer gentle, eco-friendly products.
  • Good reviews for permed or chemically treated hair: Hearing from others with similar hair helped me narrow down options.

My Tips for Using Sulfate Free Shampoo on Permed Hair

  • I shampoo less frequently to avoid over-drying. Usually, every 2-3 days works best.
  • I use a conditioner or deep treatment after shampooing to lock in moisture.
  • I gently massage the scalp and avoid rough towel drying to protect the curls.

Finding the right sulfate free shampoo for my permed hair took some trial and error, but once I did, my curls looked healthier and lasted longer. I hope my guide helps you choose a shampoo that keeps your permed hair happy and beautiful!

Author Profile

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Leslie Luevano
I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.

Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.