Beginner Botanical Shampoo (Sulfate-Free)
A gentle, foaming daily shampoo using a mild surfactant blend, panthenol, and glycerin for a softer feel. pH-balanced for hair compatibility.
Ingredients
- 137.5 g Distilled Water — 55.0% (Solvent)
- 7.5 g Glycerin — 3.0% (Humectant)
- 2.0 g Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) — 0.8% (Thickener, optional; pre-disperse)
- 25.0 g Cocamidopropyl Betaine — 10.0% (Secondary surfactant / foam booster)
- 30.0 g Decyl Glucoside — 12.0% (Non-ionic surfactant)
- 25.0 g Coco Glucoside — 10.0% (Non-ionic surfactant)
- 2.5 g Panthenol (Pro-Vit B5) — 1.0% (Conditioning humectant)
- 2.5 g Preservative (your catalog choice) — 1.0% (Broad-spectrum)
- 1.25 g Fragrance or Essential Oil — 0.5% (Optional)
- q.s. pH adjuster (citric acid solution) — to pH 4.8–5.5
- q.s. Thickener option (salt or Crothix) — to desired viscosity
Instructions
- Weigh distilled water into a sanitized beaker.
- Add glycerin. If using HEC, pre-disperse HEC into glycerin first, then add and mix until hydrated.
- In a separate container, combine CAPB + decyl glucoside + coco glucoside.
- Add surfactant blend into Phase A slowly to minimize foam.
- Once uniform, add panthenol and your preservative. Mix gently.
- Check pH. Adjust to 4.8–5.5 using citric acid solution (add dropwise).
- Thicken as needed (salt curve or your preferred thickener).
- Bottle, label, and record your batch notes.
Phase A: Base
Phase B: Surfactants
Phase C: Cool Down
Phase D: Adjust & Finish
Troubleshooting
Too thin: Thicken with salt in very small increments (mix and wait), or use a dedicated thickener.
Too thick: Dilute with small amounts of water (re-check pH).
Foamy mixing: Stir gently; let sit to deaerate.
