Formulating a Sulfate-Free Cleansing Base for Face and Hair

Hello Siriwan,

I understand that the Sulfate Free Shampoo Base (pH 7, Clear, Foaming) is out of stock and you would like to know if your proposed formula can be mixed as a substitute and if it is suitable for use on both face and hair.

Regarding your question, the formula you provided can be mixed. The ingredients listed are commonly used in gentle cleansing products. Specifically, the surfactants in your formula are sulfate-free, which are generally milder on skin and hair compared to sulfate-based surfactants.

Your formula includes:

• Gentle Surfactants: Coco Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, which will provide cleansing and foaming.
• Thickener: sugar thick (PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate) to achieve the desired viscosity.
• Soothing/Anti-irritant: Allantoin, known for its skin-soothing and anti-irritant properties.
• Preservative: Mild Preserve Eco to prevent microbial growth.
• pH Adjuster: Lactic Acid, important for adjusting the acidity/alkalinity of the final product.

Properties and Usage:

1. Similarity to Sulfate Free Base: Since your formula uses sulfate-free surfactants, similar to the base you mentioned, it is expected to provide comparable gentleness and good foaming properties. However, the exact texture, clarity, and foam quality may vary depending on the raw material quality and mixing process.
2. Suitable for Hair and Body: This formula is very suitable for use as a gentle shampoo and body wash.
3. Suitable for Face: Many ingredients in the formula, such as Coco Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, and Allantoin, are considered gentle enough for facial use. A key consideration is the final pH of the product. If using specifically for the face, the pH should ideally be adjusted to around 5.5, which is the natural pH of the skin, to help maintain the skin barrier's balance. The Sulfate Free base you previously used might have a pH of 7, which may not be as ideal as pH 5.5 for facial skin, but your proposed formula includes Lactic Acid which allows you to adjust the pH.

Additional Recommendations:

• It is recommended to try mixing a small batch first to check the texture and compatibility of the ingredients.
• After mixing, you should measure the pH of the final product and adjust it with Lactic Acid (or other suitable pH adjusters) as needed. If using for the face, aim for a pH between 5.0-6.0. If using only for hair and body, a pH of 7 is acceptable.

In summary, your formula is a good option and should be able to create a gentle cleansing product for both hair and body, substituting the out-of-stock base. It can also be adapted for facial use by adjusting the pH appropriately.

I hope this information is helpful.

Thank you.