Understanding the Hair Detox Phase
When switching from shampoos that contain sulphates (harsh cleansing agents, sometimes even naturally derived) to shampoos with only natural, sulphate-free, plant-based cleansers, there can be a period of readjustment for your hair and scalp. We call this the detox process.

Why does detox happen?
Sulphates are very effective at removing oil and dirt, but they’re often too effective — stripping away your scalp’s natural protective oils. Over time, this can create a cycle of oiliness, dryness, irritation, and dependency on harsher shampoos.
When you switch to natural shampoo, your scalp begins to rebalance and produce oil at its own healthy rhythm again. During this time, you may notice:
- An oilier scalp, especially at the roots
- Hair that feels heavier, waxier, or coated
- Knottier strands (particularly if you’ve used silicone-based products before)
- Less lather when washing
It can feel frustrating — but this stage is temporary, and the benefits are worth it.

How our Detox Shampoo helps
This is where our Detox Shampoo comes in.
Formulated with wild Cornish seaweed, Frankincense, Angelica Root, Tuber Fleeceflower, and refreshing Mint, it combines our classic seaweed-and-botanical infusion with naturally stronger (yet still sulphate-free) cleansers to:
- Lift years of residue from silicones, styling products, and synthetic shampoos
- Support scalp comfort by cleansing without over-stripping moisture
- Shorten the detox phase so your scalp finds balance sooner
- Prime your hair to fully benefit from our Super Nutrient Shampoo & Conditioner
Think of it as your reset button. Use it at the start of your natural haircare journey, or whenever your hair feels weighed down — such as after a salon visit or heavy styling.
Naturally healthier hair and scalp
Once your hair has moved through the detox stage, many people notice:
- A calmer, less reactive scalp
- Hair that stays cleaner for longer between washes
- More natural shine, softness, and bounce
- Improved scalp health that can even support better growth
At this stage, most people move on to using our Super Nutrient Shampoo and Super Nutrient Conditioner as their regular routine, with the Detox Shampoo used as a weekly or occasional reset.
Tips to support the process
- Don’t worry about less foam: sulphate-free shampoos lather less. Add a little water while massaging to activate the natural cleansers.
- Rinse thoroughly: both before and after washing.
- Condition the lengths: finish with our Super Nutrient Conditioner to smooth and protect your hair while your scalp rebalances.
A gentle transition, powered by the sea
Switching to natural haircare is a small shift that makes a big difference. If the transition feels rocky, you’re not doing anything wrong — your scalp is simply finding its balance again.
And if you’d like to make the process easier, our Detox Shampoo is here to help you through that adjustment, so your hair feels light, clean, and ready to thrive.