What the hell is in Hair Shampoo?

I imagine we’ve all done it.

We’re in the bathroom and to kill time we read, sometimes that includes grabbing the nearest product and reading the back label, nine times out of ten that’s a shampoo or conditioner bottle, then you think to yourself ‘What the fuck are those chemicals?’

As ever we’re here to help.

In this article we'll explore the common ingredients and chemicals found in hair shampoo, discussing their functions and potential effects on your hair and scalp, again you’re very welcome.

Water (Aqua)

Water is the primary ingredient in most shampoos, making up about 70-80% of the total composition. It acts as a solvent, dissolving and blending other ingredients to form a smooth and homogenous mixture.

Surfactants

Surfactants are responsible for the cleansing action of shampoos. They work by lowering the surface tension between water and oil, enabling them to mix and be rinsed away. Common surfactants include:

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)

Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES)

SLS and ALS are more potent cleansers but can be harsh on the scalp and hair. SLES and ALES are milder alternatives that provide effective cleansing without being overly aggressive.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine

Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a secondary surfactant often used in conjunction with primary surfactants to boost their foaming properties. It also helps to thicken the shampoo and improve its overall texture.

Conditioning Agents

Conditioning agents are added to shampoos to counteract the stripping effects of surfactants, leaving hair smooth and manageable. Common conditioning agents include:

Cetyl Alcohol

Stearyl Alcohol

Cetrimonium Chloride

Polyquaternium-10

These ingredients coat the hair shaft, reducing friction between strands and improving combability.

Silicones

Silicones, such as dimethicone and cyclomethicone, are often added to shampoos to enhance shine, smoothness, and heat protection. They form a protective barrier around the hair shaft, sealing in moisture and guarding against environmental damage. However, some people may experience build-up over time, which can weigh hair down and make it appear greasy.

Preservatives

Preservatives are necessary to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in shampoos. Common preservatives include:

Parabens (e.g., methylparaben, propylparaben)

Phenoxyethanol

Sodium Benzoate

There has been some controversy surrounding parabens due to potential health concerns, leading many companies to seek alternative preservatives like phenoxyethanol and sodium benzoate.

Fragrance

Fragrances are added to shampoos to provide a pleasant scent. These can be derived from natural sources, like essential oils, or created synthetically. Some individuals may be sensitive to fragrances, resulting in allergic reactions or irritation.

Thickeners

Thickeners improve the consistency and viscosity of shampoos, making them easier to apply and distribute. Common thickeners include:

Sodium Chloride (salt)

Xanthan Gum

Hydroxyethylcellulose

pH Adjusters

To maintain the optimal pH balance for hair and scalp health, pH adjusters are added to shampoos. Examples include citric acid and sodium hydroxide.

Understanding the ingredients and chemicals in hair shampoo can help you make informed choices about the products you use. While some ingredients are necessary for cleansing and conditioning, others can cause irritation or build-up. Always read the labels and consider your individual hair, my favourite by the way is anything with Tea Tree in it……why not get a thrill when washing your feather down hey?