Clarifying Shampoos

General Recipe:

1. Primary Surfactants (10-15%): These ingredients are mainly responsible for cleansing the hair and creating lather. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) or Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are often used. However, due to concerns about skin irritation with these ingredients, milder alternatives like Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate or Cocamidopropyl Betaine could be used.

2. Secondary Surfactants (5-10%): These are often added to modify the characteristics of the lather, improve the feel of the shampoo on the hair, and provide additional cleaning power. Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a common secondary surfactant.

3. Chelating Agent (0.1-0.5%): Ingredients like Disodium EDTA are used to remove metal ions that are present in water and can dull the hair.

4. Thickening Agents (0.5-2%): Ingredients such as Hydroxyethylcellulose or Xanthan Gum can be used to increase the viscosity of the shampoo.

5. Conditioning Agents (1-5%): Silicone derivatives such as Dimethicone or natural oils can be used to add shine and manageability to the hair.

6. Preservatives (0.5-2%): Broad-spectrum preservatives such as Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, or parabens (if allowed) are used to prevent microbial growth in the product.

7. pH adjusters (q.s.): The pH of the shampoo is adjusted usually to about 5-6 using agents like Citric Acid to ensure the product is effective and non-irritating.

8. Water (to 100%): The remaining portion of the shampoo is typically water.

These shampoos are designed to remove buildup from the hair and scalp. They're typically used once a week or as needed, as they can be quite drying.