
10 Aug Shampoo 101
Let’s not turn this into brain surgery. I bet you think that the super expensive stuff women use in their hair and the super cheap crap you get from the grocery store are basically the same, right? Here’s the truth: all shampoos clean your hair the same way, but it’s what they do afterwards that makes all the difference.
All shampoos contain a surfactant, the cleansing agent that creates lather and removes surface oil, dirt and bacteria. Make sure to read the back of the bottle – the cheaper the shampoo, the worse the surfactant.
- High-quality surfactant: Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate. This mild plant-derived surfactant creates a rich, luxurious later that effectively removes surface oil, dirt and bacteria without stripping or drying sensitive skin. It’s also hydrophilic meaning it’s attracted to water, enabling it to dissolve more readily in water, thus providing superior rinse-ability.
- Low-quality surfactant: Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES). Notice how it’s almost the same wording as the good stuff? That’s where they get you. This is an inexpensive foaming agent made by mixing sulfuric acid, monododecyl ester, and sodium salt.
PRZ TIP:
Always buy your shampoo and conditioners from a salon, spa, quality apothecary, or an online destination that promotes premium hair care products. Nowadays it’s really easy because everything is broken down by hair type and condition. Make sure you know why you need to condition so your shampoo is complimented.