A refreshing, sulfate-free shampoo formulation that combines Hydrolyzed Rice Protein with invigorating Peppermint and Lemongrass oils to cleanse fine to normal hair without stripping natural moisture.
This formulation uses a sulfate-free surfactant system (Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine) which creates a gentle lather that cleanses without stripping natural oils. The inclusion of Hydrolyzed Rice Protein adds volume and strength, while Coconut and Argan oils provide deep moisture and slip. The refreshing blend of Peppermint, Lemongrass, and Lemon Myrtle oils suggests a cooling and stimulating experience for the scalp.
The product avoids harsh sulfates like SLS/SLES, parabens, and formaldehyde donors, utilizing food-grade preservatives (Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate) instead. While safer than many drugstore options, the presence of Citral and multiple essential oils may pose an allergy risk for users with sensitive skin. Additionally, Steareth-20 is an ethoxylated ingredient, which carries a minor contamination concern, though generally safe in cosmetic formulations.
This is a high-quality, gentle shampoo suitable for daily use and dry or damaged hair types. It successfully balances mild cleansing agents with significant conditioning botanicals. While the essential oils improve the sensory experience, they slightly lower the safety score due to potential allergenicity. Overall, it is a solid choice for those looking to avoid harsh chemicals while maintaining hair hydration.
This formulation represents a sophisticated approach to gentle cleansing, prioritizing scalp health without sacrificing the satisfying lather consumers expect. The primary cleansing agents, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside and Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, differ significantly from harsh sulfates like SLS. These surfactants are large-molecule cleansers that effectively remove dirt and buildup but are generally too large to penetrate the skin barrier, resulting in a non-irritating wash that preserves the scalp’s natural lipid layer.
The inclusion of Hydrolyzed Rice Protein is a standout feature for this product. Rice protein is widely recognized for its ability to bind moisture and increase the tensile strength of the hair shaft, often providing a noticeable volumizing effect. This makes the shampoo particularly well-suited for individuals with fine or limp hair who need lift rather than heavy conditioning. While nourishing oils like Coconut and Argan Oil are present, their placement in the ingredient list suggests a lighter concentration, ensuring that the hair receives hydration without being weighed down or becoming greasy.
From a sensory perspective, the product relies on a potent blend of essential oils including Peppermint, Lemongrass, and Lemon Myrtle. This trio provides more than just a bright, citrusy aroma; Peppermint Oil stimulates blood flow to the scalp and creates a cooling sensation, while the citrus oils offer mild astringent properties that can help regulate sebum production on an oily scalp.
However, the reliance on these botanical extracts is a double-edged sword. While natural, ingredients like Citral and concentrated essential oils are known allergens. Individuals with compromised skin barriers or known sensitivities to fragrance may find this formula too stimulating. For the average user, however, this shampoo offers an excellent balance between natural ingredients and cosmetic elegance, providing a thorough, uplifting cleanse.
🧪 AQUA (WATER) / 水
Purpose: Dissolves other ingredients; forms the base of the shampoo.
Concerns: None.
Notes: Universal solvent.
🧪 CAPRYLYL/CAPRYL GLUCOSIDE / 辛基/癸基葡糖苷
Purpose: Mild, non-ionic surfactant derived from sugar, provides gentle cleansing and foaming.
Concerns: Generally safe and gentle.
Notes: Biodegradable and eco-friendly.
🧪 DISODIUM LAURETH SULFOSUCCINATE / 月桂醇聚醚磺基琥珀酸酯二钠
Purpose: Mild anionic surfactant; creates foam and cleans hair.
Concerns: None; often confused with sulfates but is much milder and has a larger molecule structure that doesn’t penetrate skin easily.
Notes: Good for sensitive scalps.
🧪 COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE / 椰油酰胺丙基甜菜碱
Purpose: Amphoteric surfactant; boosts foam and reduces potential irritation from other surfactants.
Concerns: Rare instances of contact dermatitis due to impurities in manufacturing.
Notes: Derived from coconut oil.
🧪 ACRYLATES/STEARETH-20 METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER / 丙烯酸(酯)类/硬脂醇聚醚-20 甲基丙烯酸酯共聚物
Purpose: Thickener; helps control the viscosity and flow of the shampoo.
Concerns: Low risk.
Notes: Synthetic polymer.
🧪 DISODIUM EDTA / EDTA 二钠
Purpose: Chelating agent; binds to metal ions in water to prevent them from affecting stability and foam.
Concerns: Low toxicity in cosmetics, but environmental accumulation is a discussion point.
Notes: Helps boost preservative efficacy.
🧪 PCA GLYCERYL OLEATE / PCA 甘油油酸酯
Purpose: Conditioning agent; replenishes the lipid layer of the hair.
Concerns: None.
Notes: Eco-friendly conditioner.
🧪 HYDROLYZED RICE PROTEIN / 水解大米蛋白
Purpose: Strengthens hair, adds volume and shine.
Concerns: None.
Notes: Plant-based protein source.
🧪 TOCOPHEROL (VITAMIN E) / 生育酚 (维生素E)
Purpose: Antioxidant; protects oils in the formula and promotes scalp health.
Concerns: None.
Notes: Prevents oxidation.
🧪 COCOS NUCIFERA (COCONUT) OIL / 椰子油
Purpose: Moisturizer; penetrates hair shaft to reduce protein loss.
Concerns: Can be comedogenic (pore-clogging) if it touches acne-prone skin on the face/back.
Notes: Classic moisturizing oil.
🧪 ARGANIA SPINOSA (ARGAN) KERNEL OIL / 刺阿干树仁油
Purpose: Rich in fatty acids and Vitamin E; moisturizes and softens hair.
Concerns: None.
Notes: Often called ‘liquid gold’.
🧪 HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL / 向日葵籽油
Purpose: Carrier oil; soothes scalp and adds hydration.
Concerns: None.
Notes: Lightweight oil.
🧪 SODIUM HYDROXIDE / 氢氧化钠
Purpose: pH adjuster; ensures the product is not too acidic.
Concerns: Corrosive in high concentrations, but safe and neutralized in the final product.
Notes: Used in very small amounts.
🧪 CITRIC ACID / 柠檬酸
Purpose: pH adjuster; ensures the product is not too alkaline to protect the hair cuticle.
Concerns: None.
Notes: Derived from citrus fruits or fermentation.
🧪 POTASSIUM SORBATE / 山梨酸钾
Purpose: Mild preservative; inhibits mold and yeast.
Concerns: Rare skin irritation.
Notes: Food-grade preservative.
🧪 SODIUM BENZOATE / 苯甲酸钠
Purpose: Preservative; prevents bacterial and fungal growth.
Concerns: Generally safe; activity is pH dependent.
Notes: Often used with Potassium Sorbate.
🧪 MENTHA PIPERITA (PEPPERMINT) LEAF OIL / 辣薄荷油
Purpose: Provides scent and a cooling sensation; stimulates blood flow to the scalp.
Concerns: Can be irritating to sensitive skin or eyes.
Notes: Refreshing aroma.
🧪 CYMBOPOGON FLEXUOSUS (LEMONGRASS) OIL / 曲叶香茅油
Purpose: Fragrance; has antimicrobial properties.
Concerns: Possible skin sensitizer.
Notes: Citrusy scent.
🧪 BACKHOUSIA CITRIODORA (LEMON MYRTLE) OIL / 柠檬香桃木油
Purpose: Fragrance; antimicrobial.
Concerns: Possible skin sensitizer.
Notes: Strong lemon scent.
🧪 CITRAL / 柠檬醛
Purpose: A scent component naturally occurring in essential oils.
Concerns: Known allergen; must be listed separately on labels in many regions.
Notes: Part of the essential oil profile.