In recent years, you’ve probably seen more skincare and grooming products labeled as “sulfate-free,” “paraben-free,” and “phthalate-free.” But what do these terms actually mean—and why do they matter?
At Imperial Scruff, we take ingredient selection seriously. Every product we make is designed to be simple, effective, and clean—without harsh chemicals that can damage your skin or hair over time.
Here’s a breakdown of what these ingredients are, why we leave them out, and what that means for your grooming routine.
What Are Sulfates?
Sulfates are powerful cleansing agents found in many shampoos, face washes, and body washes. Their main job is to create that satisfying lather and remove dirt, oil, and product buildup.
The most common types are:
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
While sulfates are effective at cleansing, they’re often too effective (Healthline). They strip away not only dirt and oil but also your skin and hair’s natural protective oils. This can leave your skin feeling tight, dry, or even irritated, and can lead to brittle, weakened hair over time.
Many people experience:
- Dry or flaky scalp
- Skin irritation or redness
- Accelerated color fading for dyed hair
That’s why we choose to go sulfate-free in products like our Everyday Shampoo, Face Cleanser, and Body Wash. Instead, we use gentler plant-based surfactants that cleanse without compromising your skin barrier.
Why We Avoid Parabens
Parabens are synthetic preservatives commonly used to extend the shelf life of cosmetics and personal care products. You’ll often see them listed on labels as:
- Methylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
They’re effective at preventing mold and bacteria, but research has raised concerns about their potential to disrupt hormones when absorbed by the body. Some studies suggest parabens can mimic estrogen, though more long-term research is still underway (FDA).
Given these concerns—and the availability of safer alternatives—we keep our products paraben-free. Your daily routine shouldn’t come with unnecessary risks, which is why we use alternative preservatives that maintain product safety without compromising your well-being.
What’s Wrong With Phthalates?
Phthalates are chemicals often used in cosmetics to make fragrances last longer or improve product texture. They’re commonly found in products that have strong, long-lasting scents, but they’re also linked to potential health risks.
Some studies suggest phthalates may (Health Central):
- Disrupt hormone function
- Impact reproductive health
- Be harmful with long-term, repeated exposure
Because phthalates aren’t always listed clearly on product labels (they’re often hidden under the word “fragrance”), it can be difficult for consumers to know whether they’re using them.
We’ve taken the guesswork out: All Imperial Scruff products are phthalate-free by design. Our products are lightly scented with clean, skin-friendly fragrances that don’t rely on phthalates to stick around.

Why This Matters for Your Skin—and Health
Using sulfate-free, paraben-free, and phthalate-free products isn’t just about avoiding buzzwords—it’s about protecting your skin, hair, and overall health in the long run.
By leaving these ingredients out, you can:
- Support a healthier skin barrier
- Avoid unnecessary irritation and dryness
- Reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals
- Maintain natural oils for balanced skin and hair
The Imperial Scruff Standard
At Imperial Scruff, we’re committed to formulas that work—with no nonsense. Every product we offer is:
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
That means you can feel confident knowing your grooming routine is built on clean, effective ingredients that prioritize your skin’s health.
Want to learn more about what’s inside our products? Explore our full ingredient lists or shop our clean bundles here.