Organic shampoo contains ingredients that are derived from natural, plant-based sources and are often grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. The specific ingredients can vary greatly from brand to brand, but the goal is to provide a cleansing and nourishing shampoo while avoiding harsh chemicals often found in conventional shampoos.
Here's a breakdown of what you might typically find:
Common Ingredients in Organic Shampoos:
- Plant-Based Cleansers: Instead of sulfates (like sodium lauryl sulfate or SLS), organic shampoos use gentler surfactants derived from plants, such as:
- Coco Glucoside: Derived from coconut and fruit sugars.
- Decyl Glucoside: Derived from coconut and corn.
- Lauryl Glucoside: Also derived from coconut.
- Essential Oils: Used for fragrance and therapeutic benefits. Common examples include:
- Lavender
- Tea Tree
- Rosemary
- Peppermint
- Herbal Extracts: Provide various benefits to the hair and scalp. Examples include:
- Aloe Vera: Soothes and hydrates the scalp.
- Chamomile: Adds shine and soothes.
- Green Tea: Rich in antioxidants.
- Plant-Based Oils and Butters: Nourish and moisturize the hair. Examples include:
- Vitamins: Provide nutrients to the hair and scalp.
- Vitamin E
- Pro-Vitamin B5 (Panthenol)
- Natural Preservatives: Help to prevent the shampoo from spoiling without using harsh chemicals.
- Vitamin E
- Rosemary Extract
- Grapefruit Seed Extract
What Organic Shampoos Typically Avoid:
- Sulfates (SLS, SLES)
- Parabens
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Artificial Colors
- Silicones
- Phthalates
Why Choose Organic Shampoo?
The main reasons for choosing organic shampoo are to avoid potentially irritating or harmful chemicals and to support more sustainable and ethical practices. Organic shampoos often use biodegradable ingredients and are packaged in eco-friendly materials.
In summary, organic shampoo is formulated with plant-derived ingredients and avoids harsh synthetic chemicals, aiming to cleanse and nourish the hair and scalp gently and naturally.
