E45 Dry Scalp Shampoo is formulated to alleviate dryness and soothe the scalp. Understanding its ingredients can help consumers make informed decisions. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the key components found in this shampoo, explaining their functions and potential benefits.
Water, listed as "Aqua" on the ingredient list, forms the base of the shampoo. It acts as a solvent, dissolving and carrying other ingredients. The water used in cosmetics is purified and deionized to remove mineral ions.
Sodium Myreth Sulfate is a sulfate surfactant that helps to cleanse the hair and scalp by removing dirt and oil.
Coco-Glucoside, derived from coconut oil and glucose, is another surfactant. It works by gathering dirt, oil, and pollutants from the skin, allowing them to be rinsed away. This ingredient provides moderate to high stable foam.
Sodium chloride, or salt, acts as a thickener in cleansing formulas containing ionic surfactants like Sodium Laureth Sulfate. A small percentage (1-3%) can transform a runny solution into a gel texture. Electrolytes screen the electrostatic repulsion between the head groups of ionic surfactants, supporting the formation of long-shaped micelles that entangle and create a gel. Salt also stabilizes water-in-oil emulsions, where water droplets are dispersed in an oil or silicone phase.
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Glycol Distearate functions as an opacifier and pearlizing agent, imparting a white and glossy appearance to the shampoo. It is a diester created from two stearic acid molecules and an ethylene glycol molecule.
Glyceryl Oleate, the ester of glycerin and oleic acid, acts as an emollient and emulsifier. As an emollient, it softens and hydrates the skin by creating a thin film that traps moisture. As an emulsifier, it prevents the separation of oil and water-based ingredients, stabilizing the formulation. It is created from oils rich in oleic acid, such as peanut oil and olive oil. According to a manufacturer, this ingredient helps thicken water-in-oil formulations, shower gels, and hair shampoos. In some products, this ingredient may be used as a fragrance / perfuming ingredient. The scent of this ingredient is described to be "waxy".
Glycerin is a humectant naturally found in the skin, helping to moisturize and protect it. It draws moisture to the skin, improving hydration and strengthening the skin barrier. Glycerin's low molecular weight allows it to penetrate deeper layers of the skin. Hydrated skin improves the skin barrier, protecting against irritants and bacteria. Glycerin also possesses antimicrobial and antiviral properties, often used in wound and burn treatments. In cosmetics, it is usually derived from plants such as soybean or palm. However, it can also be sourced from animals, such as tallow or animal fat. This ingredient is organic, colorless, odorless, and non-toxic. A study from 2016 found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
Polyquaternium-10, an ammonium salt of hydroxyethylcellulose, is a film-former and anti-static agent commonly found in hair conditioning products. Its positive charge helps it absorb hair proteins. It is a cellulose-derived polymer that can thicken products and form a film on the skin or hair.
A vegetable-origin cleansing agent (coconut/palm kernel oil, glucose) provides moderate to high stable foam.
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Panthenol, also known as pro-vitamin B5, is a humectant that attracts and holds water, moisturizing the skin and hair. It has anti-inflammatory and skin-protecting properties, reducing irritation caused by other ingredients. Panthenol can penetrate deep into the skin's layers and promotes wound healing by increasing tissue in the wound and helping close open wounds. Most cosmetics use dexpanthenol or a mixture of D and L-panthenol. Once oxidized, panthenol converts to pantothenic acid.
Climbazole is a preservative. This ingredient may not be malassezia folliculitis safe.
Potassium sorbate is a preservative used to prevent yeast and mold growth in products. Derived from potassium salt and sorbic acid, it is a natural antibiotic effective against fungus. It is often used in conjunction with other preservatives. Sorbic acid is a natural antibiotic and effective against fungus. Both potassium sorbate and sorbic acid can be found in baked goods, cheeses, dried meats, dried fruit, ice cream, pickles, wine, yogurt, and more.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) is an antioxidant that protects the skin from free radicals and strengthens the skin barrier. As a fat-soluble vitamin, it is easily absorbed by the skin and helps maintain healthy skin lipids. Vitamin E also provides some UV protection, reducing damage caused by UVB rays. Combining it with Vitamin C can decrease sunburned cells and hyperpigmentation after UV exposure. It is great at stabilizing Vitamin C. Using the two together helps increase the effectiveness of both ingredients.
Citric acid, an AHA derived from citrus fruits, removes the top layer of skin cells from the newer layer of skin underneath.
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The attachment of glycerin and oleic acid that works mainly as a co-emulsifier and stabilizer to create stable water-oil mixes, aka emulsions.
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