Shampoos

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I have no excuse; It has been forever since I last updated. My peace offering is this post, I hope I'm forgiven😅. Let's get into it.

It is common knowledge that shampoos are products used to clean hair. The aim of this post is to dig deeper. How does the shampoo actually clean hair? It seems like such a mundane thing, something most people don't consider. I, however, am interested in how our hair goes from greasy and lackluster to clean with a fresh lease of life. 

Components of a shampoo

Surfactants
These ingredients are responsible for the cleaning action of shampoos. They ensure the scalp is nice and clean.

A viscosity builder
This enhances the density of the shampoo ensuring it's the right consistency.

A solvent
This ensures the ingredients can mix uniformly.

Conditioning agents
They replace the protective coating of the hair. Ingredients such as silicones and fatty alcohols smooth the cuticle and prevent static. This reduces frizz.

pH adjuster
Shampoos have a pH range of 3.9 to 9.0. Depending on your hair's needs, you can choose a shampoo with a pH that suits you. It's important to note that the pH range of the hair and scalp is 4.5 to 5.5.

Fragrance
This is for marketing. It's a way for companies to distinguish themselves from the competition.

Mode of action
Shampoos remove dirt and lipids on the surface level of the hair shaft. It mainly acts on the cuticle extracting surface lipid matter. The surfactants lower the surface tension of water. The hydrophobic portion of the surfactant binds to dirt and oil while the hydrophilic portion ensures the surfactant can be washed away by water.

Types of shampoos
I will not go in-depth on the shampoos available out there, but I'm hoping I've sparked your curiosity about the intricacies of shampoos.
  • Clarifying shampoo - Removes dirt and build-up from the scalp and hair strands.
  • Color-protecting shampoo - Specially formulated shampoos that are mild enough for dyed hair.
  • Everyday shampoo - This is a regular shampoo that can be used daily.
  • Moisturizing shampoo - Formulated with moisturizing ingredients to prevent drying of the hair or scalp.
  • Two in one (Co-wash) - This is both a shampoo and conditioner.
  • Volumizing shampoo - It is designed to make thin hair appear thicker than it actually is.
There you go. A deep dive into the world of shampoos and their uses. I hope this was insightful.
Feel free to comment and share💙💚💛💜💗

REFERENCES
2.  ncbi.com

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