Shampoo comparisons often collapse into one question: sulphate or sulphate-free. That is too narrow for a factual product database. A shampoo is a complete formula containing cleansing agents and many supporting ingredients.
Read the front and back labels separately
The front tells you how the brand positions the product. The back label provides ingredients, quantity and other product information. Keep those two layers separate in a comparison.
What “sulphate-free” does and does not tell you
It can indicate that particular sulphate surfactants are absent based on the brand’s claim. It does not tell you the complete surfactant blend, pH, fragrance system, conditioning system or concentration of every ingredient.
Value comparison
For 200 ml, 300 ml and 400 ml bottles, price per 100 ml is an intuitive common unit. Record refill packs separately because packaging format and net quantity can differ.
“Anti-dandruff”, “anti-hairfall”, “repair”, “volumising” and similar phrases can have very different regulatory and evidence contexts. DermaQA should quote the brand’s wording and avoid turning it into an independent efficacy conclusion.
Frequently asked questions
Is sulphate-free the same as surfactant-free?
No. Shampoo still needs a cleansing system; “sulphate-free” refers to a subset of surfactants.
Can shampoo price be compared per 100 ml?
Yes, when both products declare volume in ml.
Does ingredient order reveal the exact amount of every surfactant?
No. Exact concentrations are not generally available from list order alone.
Sources and reference framework
DermaQA uses primary or official references where practical. Product formulas and labels can change, so the current pack and manufacturer page remain the most direct references for a specific product.
Last checked: 19 September 2026. This page explains product information and label terminology; it does not provide personalised medical advice or a product recommendation.