Cleansing Conditioner or Co-Wash
cleansing conditioner:
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Water (65-80%): The primary solvent in the formula.
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Cationic Surfactants (5-10%): Such as Behentrimonium Methosulfate or Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, which provide conditioning properties and also help to gently clean the hair.
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Mild Nonionic or Amphoteric Surfactants (2-5%): Like Cocamidopropyl Betaine or Decyl Glucoside. These surfactants help to clean the hair and scalp without stripping away natural oils.
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Fatty Alcohols (2-6%): Such as Cetearyl Alcohol or Stearyl Alcohol, which provide a creamy texture and help with detangling.
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Emollients (1-4%): Such as plant oils (e.g., Argan Oil, Jojoba Oil) or silicones (e.g., Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane) which provide shine and smoothness to the hair.
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Humectants (2-5%): Such as Glycerin or Propylene Glycol, to help the hair retain moisture.
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Thickeners/Stabilizers (0.1-1%): Such as Xanthan Gum or Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride to adjust the product's viscosity.
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Preservatives (0.5-1.5%): To prevent microbial growth, e.g., Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin.
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pH Adjusters (0.1-0.5%): Citric Acid or Lactic Acid, to adjust the pH of the product to a level that is hair-friendly (around 4.5-5.5).
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Fragrance (0.2-1%): For a pleasant scent.
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Specialty ingredients (0.5-2%): Proteins (e.g., Hydrolyzed Silk Protein), botanical extracts (e.g., Aloe Vera, Green Tea), or vitamins (e.g., Panthenol) for additional hair benefits.
These conditioners gently cleanse and condition the hair in one step, and are typically used by those with curly or dry hair to maintain moisture.