What type of shampoo is formulated with little to no alkaline soap base?

Sulfate-free shampoos are specifically formulated with little to no alkaline soap base, making them gentle on the hair and scalp. These shampoos are designed to cleanse effectively without the harsh effects often associated with traditional shampoos that contain sulfates, which can strip natural oils and potentially irritate sensitive skin. By eliminating or reducing alkaline substances, sulfate-free shampoos maintain a lower pH, making them suitable for all hair types, particularly color-treated or chemically processed hair, which can be damaged by alkaline solutions.

In contrast, color-enhancing shampoos typically contain additional pigments or color-depositing agents to enrich hair color but may still include some alkaline ingredients for consistency. Medicated shampoos contain active ingredients for treating scalp conditions, which may necessitate certain levels of alkalinity for effectiveness. Neutralizing shampoos are designed to restore the pH balance of the hair and scalp after chemical treatments, such as relaxers, and usually contain alkalizing agents to accomplish this. Thus, the unique formulation of sulfate-free shampoos serves to provide a milder cleaning alternative without harsh alkaline components.