To CG ladies who occasionally use sulfates/cones...

joseybird · 02-01-2013, 03:37 PM

Do you find that the occasional use of sulfate/cone-containing products makes your hair look bad?

I use sulfate-free shampoo/co-wash and cone-free conditioner/styling products most of the time, but occasionally I'll use a sulfate shampoo or put in a bit of smoothing gel w/cones. I've only just started paying attention to my hair routine, so I was hoping that I could get opinions from ladies who have been on routines like this for a while

(My sulfate-free shampoo is the curl Shea Moisture one...anyone know if it can remove cones?)

rainboe · 02-01-2013, 10:38 PM

I don't think it's too damaging for me when I use bad ingredients. Sometimes sulfate or clarifying conditioners can my my hair a bit dry after I use them, but I can use a deep treatment and it goes back to normal. I don't wash with sulfates or use cones too often.

I don't think the Shea Moisture shampoos can remove silicones.

kibs · 02-01-2013, 10:51 PM

I used a cream with a cone in it a few days ago and the next day my hair was producty and greasy. It isnt the end of the world, I just had to clarify it. But I prefer my hair non producty-greasy and using shampoo too often dries out my scalp, so I tend to stay away from them.

Corrina777 · 02-02-2013, 08:20 PM

I tried CHS Treatment Shampoo (sulfate) about a year ago after seeing some good reviews. My hair absolutely loved it (I always use prior to my PT, and sometimes once every few weeks in the shower). So then I started cautiously playing with cones again and I've had no issues. I still use mostly CG products, but there are a few products with cones that my hair likes, so they're in the rotation.

mhen76 · 02-03-2013, 11:43 AM

I think much depends on the condition of your hair. My hair is pretty healthy right now so the occasional sulfate or cone is doable. That wouldn't have been true for me a few years back when I started. After years of blow drying and daily flat ironing, my hair was heat damaged, making it very dry and fragile. It took some time to nurse it back to health. Using cones or sulfates during those days would have just prolonged the process. Like blow drying or heat styling, you just gotta be careful not to use them to the point of damage. It's kinda like Snickers bars. Once in a while doesn't blow the diet but everyday and I'm in trouble!

Ericachristina · 02-03-2013, 12:36 PM

I don't use sulfates but before I was making an effort to care for my hair I did and it was drying especially in combination with heat styling. I have never given up silicones though and I have no problems with them, my hair is healthy and thriving so I don't see a need to refrain from using them now.

ltdeforrest · 02-24-2013, 01:51 PM

I have been modified CG since last summer, but recently returned to sulfates. I LOVE the TIGI Oatmeal & Honey shampoo. I still use an a-cone once in awhile so the sulfate poo really helps prevent build-up. I was never able to co-wash anyway because it caused major build-up on my fine hair. My hair has never been healthier...I just make sure I keep it moisturized and deep condition when it feels dry. I try not to use sulfates too much, but I find that I can use them about once a week without too much trouble.

Marci · 03-04-2013, 12:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mhen76

I think much depends on the condition of your hair. My hair is pretty healthy right now so the occasional sulfate or cone is doable.

I agree with Mhen, I did CG for almost a year. About a month ago I started using Herbal Essences HH and haven't looked back. I have not used any sulfates, I think this was what caused most of my hair problems. It may be that 'cones aren't always bad as long as the hair is healthy.

curlypearl · 03-04-2013, 07:12 PM

I use a sulfate shampoo whenever I color my hair which I have to admit is about once ever 2 weeks (I can't stand the grey). So before I color I use cones because I know I'll be washing them out with the sulfate poo.

I think once in a while is fine. My hair seems to be OK with this regimen. Probably the hair dye is worse than the cones! But I think the Mhen's snickers metaphor is correct - once in a while is fine - a steady diet of cones and sulfates probably isn't great for most curlies.

Let us know what works for you.