There are so many benefits of shampoo and conditioner bars. Many of my customers want to know why I use the ingredients I do in my recipes. Let's see!
I personally don't use lye as I like the way SCI (sodium cocoyl isethionate) shampoo bars. Lye is what we use to make a body soap based bar. If used in a shampoo bar, hair can feel rough, very tangled, and can feel like you have a coating on your hair over time. This is why I make a syndet bar made with SCI. What is SCI--a gentle anionic surfactant made for coconut oil. Yes, it is considered natural and is used to make solid cleansers. Its very gentle on your hair.
hydrolyzed proteins- such as wheat or rice repair, and give shine.
Fatty alcohols- such as cetyl alcohol give the bar shape and helps the bar last and no this alcohol does not dry out your hair.
Ccoamidopropyl Betaine- made from coconut oil. Give a stabilized lather.
Conditioning agents- BTMS 25 abd 50. I find if you have normal to oily hair BTMS 25 works, and if you have very dry hair BTMS 50 works.
Coconut oil: Help to penetrate the hair shaft. Finding the right balance is important for benefit you hair.
Argan oil: Great for adding shine and softness
Marshmallow root: Helps with tangles and split ends. It helps plump the follicle giving bounce and volume. It's antimicrobial and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Rosemary seed extract: Known for stimulating blood circulation in scalp to improve hair growth and decrease hair loss. It's great for overall hair health.
For information on scents and essential oils; Check out my blog on essential oils for the hair.