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.

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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.