The Ordinary Sulphate 4% Cleanser Will Give Your Hair a Soft and Oily-Free Texture

It’s no secret that my relationship with my hair has been a journey, one marked by heat damage from years of straightening my natural curls, an ongoing battle against frizz, and the perpetual quest to find the perfect solution for my bangs. So, you can imagine the sheer delight I felt when, during a recent Zoom meeting, my boss, the person whose opinion matters most, exclaimed, “Wow, your hair looks amazing–I just want to reach out and touch it.” The moment was undeniably affirming, but my surprise only grew when a few days later, my trusted esthetician voiced the same sentiment.

Intrigued by the positive feedback, I eagerly shared my recent revelation–the addition of The Ordinary Sulphate 4% Cleanser for Body and Hair to my daily routine. This product, which initially challenged my skepticism about two-in-one formulas, has proven to be a transformative addition to my haircare ritual. Not only did it challenge my biases, but it also rewarded me with hair that feels unbelievably soft and manageable, allowing me to confidently stretch the days between washes.

Best suited for all hair types, this versatile cleanser has emerged as a true multi-tasker. A gem in the realm of haircare, it defies convention by catering to both your hair and body. Pioneered by The Ordinary, a brand known for its budget-friendly yet highly effective skincare products, this innovative formula embraces cruelty-free, vegan, and science-backed principles. A brand that ventured into haircare in 2018 with the widely-acclaimed Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density, The Ordinary’s reputation precedes it.

Navigating my type 3A curls is no small feat, especially considering my busy schedule. Frequent encounters with a hairdryer are inevitable, which makes my choice of shampoo a crucial decision. I seek a shampoo that is tailored for the density of curly hair, offering the smoothness of a blowout while retaining the hold I achieve with styling tools. Additionally, my skin tends to overproduce sebum, leaving me in search of a solution to combat dandruff.

While The Ordinary’s Sulphate 4% Cleanser caters to all hair types, I concur with fellow reviewers that it holds particular promise for those with oily scalps. Not only has it gifted me with luxuriously soft strands, but it has also significantly extended the intervals between my wash days–no more greasy mane or bothersome flakes to contend with.

Similar to The Ordinary’s acclaimed Multi-Peptide Serum, this formula prioritizes a lightweight consistency that effortlessly glides through your hair and body. While working the cleanser through my hair, I noticed the absence of a foamy lather, which initially prompted a moment of uncertainty about the right amount to use. After a bit of trial and error, I discovered that a quarter-sized dollop, a “Goldilocks” amount, perfectly caters to my medium-bodied, shoulder-length hair. For those with finer or shorter hair, a smaller quantity might suffice.

Despite my reservations about the lack of foam, the cleanser proved its mettle by providing a thorough cleanse for my scalp. The efficiency of its rinsing process was a welcome surprise, considering my scalp often harbors remnants of days-old products like dry shampoo, leave-in conditioner, and hairspray.

I must admit, I approached the concept of a 2-in-1 cleanser with skepticism–after all, haven’t I lectured my ex-boyfriend about the potential pitfalls of such products? However, my experience using this shampoo every other day for over a week has compelled me to reconsider my stance. In fact, it took just one wash for this formula to deliver enhanced volume, smoothing effects from root to tip, and an impressive reduction in frizz.

Beyond the aesthetic improvements, the cleanser’s effects on my scalp are equally noteworthy. It has granted me the luxury of extending the period between washes as my scalp remains remarkably clean for days. Admittedly, some reviewers have observed that the shampoo can be slightly drying, especially when compared to more hydrating alternatives. Nevertheless, this concern becomes a non-issue when paired with the matching Behentrimonium Chloride 2% Conditioner. The duo operates harmoniously, taming frizz and replenishing hydration, culminating in hair that boasts the same fullness, shine, and bounce reminiscent of ’90s icon Julia Roberts.

Furthermore, as a body wash, this cleanser delivers a gratifying experience. Its texture doesn’t leave behind any sticky residue, allowing for an overall invigorating cleanse. While I can’t personally attest to its efficacy as an acne-fighting agent, numerous customers have reported a noticeable reduction in blemishes below the neck.

Remaining true to The Ordinary’s philosophy, this product eschews flashy packaging and overpowering scents. The absence of fragrance competing with my preferred perfume is a welcome relief. Furthermore, its fragrance-free nature renders it a safe option for individuals with sensitive skin.

With a concise list of only 11 ingredients, this cleanser embraces a minimalistic approach. Notably, it features sulfates, a choice that initially raised concerns about potential damage to my delicate curls. However, The Ordinary’s formulation employs a small concentration of the milder surfactant, SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate), which safeguards against any drastic impact.

In simple terms, giving The Ordinary Sulphate 4% Cleanser a try is a low-risk investment. This product delivers remarkable results at a fraction of the cost of more luxurious alternatives, all while rejuvenating your hair’s vitality, maintaining scalp hygiene, and uplifting your spirits. While I do wish The Ordinary offered larger-sized bottles, the affordability of this cleanser tempers any reservations.

To achieve the best outcomes and counteract any dryness, I recommend pairing the cleanser with the Behentrimonium Chloride 2% Conditioner–an investment that remains budget-friendly. The combined power of this duo is unquestionably worth it, with a price point that remains comfortably under $20.