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Sulfate free DIY Shampoo

Sandalwood Shampoo Formulation - Sulfate free shampoo

Introduction: Why Choose Sulfate-Free Shampoos?

Sulfate-free shampoos are gentle on hair and scalp, making them ideal for all hair types, especially color-treated or sensitive hair. They use mild surfactants that cleanse without stripping natural oils, while conditioning agents and hydrolyzed proteins nourish and repair hair.

This guide explains how to create a clear, sulfate-free sandalwood shampoo using natural surfactants, conditioning ingredients, and carefully balanced additives for a mild, effective hair care solution.

Key Ingredients and Their Functions

1. Mild Surfactants (Phase A)

Ingredient

Type

Function

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate

Anionic surfactant

Mild cleanser with good foaming properties

Coco Betaine

Amphoteric surfactant

Boosts foam, increases viscosity

Coco Glucoside

Non-ionic surfactant

Enhances mildness; alternative: Decyl glucoside

 

2. Conditioning Agents (Phase B & D) 

Ingredient

Type

Function

Glycine

Amino acid

Moisturizes, conditions, makes hair look healthy

Glycerin (optional)

Humectant

Adds moisture to hair

Polyquat 7

Cationic polymer

Reduces frizz, increases shine

Hydrolyzed Proteins (Rice, Wheat)

Protein

Repairs damaged hair; alternatives: oat protein, milk protein

Olivem 300

Emollient & foam enhancer

Adds mild conditioning and foam stability

 

3. Fragrance, pH Adjusters & Preservatives (Phase C & D)

Ingredient

Function

Sandalwood Fragrance Oil

Provides pleasant scent; ratio with Polysorbate 80 must be tested to avoid cloudiness

Polysorbate 80

Solubilizer

Sodium Gluconate

Chelating agent

Lactic Acid

pH adjuster

Geogard ECT

Preservative

Salt

Thickener

Ingredients Required (Percentage by Weight) 

Ingredients Required (Percentage by Weight) 

Phase

Ingredient

%

A

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate

15

A

Coco Betaine

10

A

Coco Glucoside

5

A

Distilled Water

55.5

B

Glycerin

3

B

Glycine

0.5

B

Sodium Gluconate

0.1

B

Salt

1.5

C

Polysorbate 80

1

C

Sandalwood F.O

1

D

Olivem 300

2

D

Polyquat 7

1

D

Hydrolyzed Proteins (Rice & Wheat)

3

D

Preservative (Geogard ECT)

1

D

Lactic Acid

0.4

Equipment required:

  • 100ml glass beakers
  • Stirring rods and spatulas
  • Heating mantle or double boiler
  • Glass bottle or serum container
  • Precision weighing scale (0.01g)
  • Measuring cups
  • Gloves

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Measure and prepare phases:

    • Phase A (surfactants + water)
    • Phase B (glycerin, glycine, sodium gluconate, salt)
    • Phase C (Polysorbate 80 + fragrance oil)
    • Phase D (Olivem 300, Polyquat 7, Hydrolyzed proteins, preservative, lactic acid)

    2. Mix Phases B & C: Stir well to ensure complete dissolution.

    3. Combine phases: Slowly add Phases B, C, and D into Phase A while stirring gently.

    4. Adjust pH: Use lactic or citric acid to reach pH ~5.5. Adjust thickness by adding up to 0.5% more salt if needed.

    5. Final packaging: Pour the shampoo into a clean bottle.

     

    If you would like to share us your creations, do tag us on instagram @ases.chem

    Disclaimer: This blog is for educational and informational purposes only.

    Tips for Best Results

    • Use transparent fragrance oils to maintain clarity.
    • Avoid over-heating surfactants; it may reduce foam.
    • Test any substitution of proteins or surfactants for compatibility.
    • Store shampoo in a cool, dry place.

    Common Substitutions & Variations

    Ingredient

    Alternative

    Notes

    Coco Glucoside

    Decyl Glucoside

    Foam may differ

    Hydrolyzed Proteins

    Oat, Milk Protein

    Adjust % based on protein type

    Lactic Acid

    Citric Acid

    Adjust carefully to pH 5.5

    Salt

    Xanthan Gum / Carbomer

    For natural thickening

     

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    FAQs

    Q1: What makes this shampoo sulfate-free? 

    A1: It uses mild surfactants like Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate and Coco Glucoside instead of harsh sulfates, making it gentle on hair and scalp.

    Q2: Can I replace wheat and rice proteins with other proteins? 

    A2: Yes, proteins like oat or milk protein can be used. Foam and texture may vary slightly.

    Q3: How can I make a clear shampoo without cloudiness? 

    A3: Ensure the fragrance oil is properly solubilized with Polysorbate 80. Test ratios before mixing into the shampoo.

    Q4: How do I adjust shampoo thickness?

    A4: Salt can be increased slightly (up to 0.5%) or natural gums like xanthan gum can be used.

     

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