Haircare products can generally be divided into three categories: shampoos, conditioners and styling products. You might also benefit from including treatments and heat protectants into your routine.
Shampoos utilize synthetic detergents as the primary cleaners, with potential natural surfactants coming from sources like soapberries, sapindus or soap bark for additional sudsing action.
Shampoo
Shampoo is a liquid that thoroughly cleans hair and scalp. It typically includes cleansing agents, fragrances, thickeners and other cosmetic and functional ingredients to deliver this result. The most commonly used primary detergent in shampoo is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS); other detergents include amphoteric and quaternary amines (e.g. triethanolamine laureth sulfate). Shampoo uses hydrophobic parts of its detergent molecules that bind oily particles while hydrophilic portions adhere to water that ultimately washes off with it as part of its contents – leaving your scalp smoothe and free from dirt!
Shampoo contains many other ingredients in addition to cleansing agents such as EDTA for chelation, deodorizers and color protecting agents like kelp or alginic acid for color preservation. Conditioners may also be added for soft and shiny locks.
Many salon shampoos contain ingredients designed to address specific hair types or treat conditions such as dandruff or thinned locks, typically sold in smaller bottles than their counterparts.
Conditioner
Hair conditioner is an integral component of even the simplest hair care routines. This thick and creamy product works to improve the texture of your strands by hydrating and replenishing them, leaving them softer and easier to manage than before.
Environment pollutants and daily wear-and-tear can damage your hair strands and leave them looking frizzy and lifeless, leaving it dry, frizzy, and dull. Conditioners contain ingredients designed to repair this internal damage to make your locks stronger and more resilient.
Hair conditioner is composed primarily of three components: surfactants, humectants and moisturizers. Historically, natural surfactants like sarsaparilla root extract or soapberry saponins were utilized before synthetic detergents became mainstream. Today there are various plant-based conditioners on the market designed to keep your locks soft, smooth and healthy; many contain hydrating ingredients with numerous health benefits as well as protein-rich conditioners with protein repair or strengthening benefits for optimal haircare results.
Styling Products
Styling products can be the hair’s greatest allies, with numerous options for each style to choose from. Heat protection sprays to blow dry hair spray, smooth creams to volumising mousse – there is something suitable for everyone and every look! However, it’s crucial that you know how to layer these newfound styling tools for optimal results.
Example: Start off by applying heat protect spray to damp hair, then using smooth cream for texture, followed by blow-drying spray to maintain style throughout the day. Finally, finish it all off with light hairspray to maintain the look!
Utilizing the appropriate hair products will make your locks healthier and more vibrant. Always consult your stylist regarding which products would work best with your specific hair type and needs! They are experts!
Treatments
Consumers expect their hair care products to do more than simply cleanse and condition; they want them to keep their locks shiny, combable, repair damage from dyeing or combing, protect colored locks from fading and dulling while aiding their growth.
Chemical product formulators bring an arsenal of raw materials to their task of developing chemical products, from silicones (for shine) and quaternary ammonium compounds for easier combing to more innovative materials, according to Nikola Matic, Industry Manager at cosmetic ingredient supplier Kline.
Natural surfactants derived from soapberries and other plants like sarsaparilla, soap bark, soapnuts, and ivy agave are making a comeback in conditioners as an alternative to synthetic detergents like sulfates. These natural surfactants create a luxurious lather that softens hair elasticity without leaving behind an oily residue; particularly effective on fine hair that becomes weighed down by heavy oils and creams.
