One of the most common questions I receive is:
"Why doesn’t my shampoo lather like I’m used to?"
The short answer? It’s likely because your shampoo is more natural — and that’s a very good thing.
Let’s explore what low-foam shampoos are, how they work, and why they’re often the healthier choice for your hair and scalp.
What Makes Shampoo Foam in the First Place?
Traditional shampoos rely on synthetic detergents known as sulphates (like SLS and SLES) to produce a rich, bubbly lather. While these ingredients do create a satisfying foam, they can also be quite harsh — stripping away natural oils, disrupting the scalp barrier, and in some cases, contributing to dryness, irritation, or even flaking.
At Laura Simmons, I’ve chosen to leave out these aggressive surfactants in favour of gentler, plant-derived cleansersthat still clean effectively — just without the excessive foam.
Does Low Foam Mean It’s Not Working?
Absolutely not. It’s a common misconception that a good lather = a good cleanse. In truth, lather isn’t an indicator of how well a shampoo works — it’s simply a by-product of certain ingredients.
With natural shampoos like my Sandalwood Shampoo, the first cleanse is designed to lift oils, product build-up, and environmental residue. Because your hair may still have residue present, the first wash often produces very little foam — and that’s perfectly normal. The shampoo is still cleaning, even if it doesn’t feel like it.
The second cleanse allows the shampoo to interact more freely with clean hair and scalp — that’s when you’ll notice a light, silky lather form.
Why This Matters for Scalp and Hair Health
The scalp is an extension of your skin. Over-cleansing or stripping away too much of its natural barrier can leave it dry, sensitive, or out of balance. My Sandalwood Shampoo is made with naturally derived surfactants like Cocamidopropyl Betaine and Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate — chosen specifically for their mildness and effectiveness.
Used correctly, a low-foam shampoo helps:
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Gently cleanse without disrupting the scalp’s natural barrier
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Maintain moisture balance and reduce dryness or sensitivity
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Support a healthier long-term environment for hair growth
Tips for Best Results with Low-Foam Shampoo
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Always shampoo twice. The first removes surface impurities, the second cleanses the scalp and hair thoroughly.
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Use around 3–4 pumps per wash. That’s often all you need — though you can adjust depending on your hair type and length.
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Add water, not more shampoo. If you’re struggling to work the product through, emulsify with a little water rather than applying more.
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Be patient. It may take a few washes to get used to the feel of low-foam cleansing — but your hair and scalp will thank you for it.
In Summary
Low-foam, natural shampoos clean gently, preserve your scalp’s integrity, and still leave your hair feeling fresh, soft, and balanced. Foam is satisfying, yes — but in the long run, your hair will benefit more from what’s not in your shampoo.
If you're new to natural cleansing, trust the process. Once your scalp rebalances, you’ll likely notice less dryness, fewer flakes, and improved manageability overall.