Natural Herbal Shampoo Formulation

Yes, you can use Coco Glucoside and Xanthan Gum as key ingredients for a natural herbal shampoo base. However, you will need to include other components to create a complete and stable shampoo formula.

Here's a breakdown of the ingredients and a basic method:

• Coco Glucoside: This is a gentle, natural non-ionic surfactant derived from coconut and corn. It acts as the primary cleansing agent. Keep in mind that it doesn't produce a lot of foam on its own.
• Xanthan Gum: This acts as a natural thickener, giving your shampoo the desired viscosity.
• Herbal Extracts: You can incorporate water-soluble herbal extracts for their beneficial properties for hair and scalp.
• pH Adjuster: Coco Glucoside has a high pH (around 11.5), which is too alkaline for the scalp. You will need to lower the pH to a skin-friendly range of 5.0-6.5. Citric Acid is a natural option commonly used for this purpose. Add it gradually while checking the pH.
• Preservative: Since the shampoo contains water and natural ingredients, a preservative is essential to prevent microbial growth and extend shelf life. Natural broad-spectrum preservatives suitable for the required pH range are recommended.

Suggested Preservatives

Based on your goal for a natural and safe formula, consider these options:

• Global Guard™ 221: A water-soluble broad-spectrum preservative effective at pH 2-7. Use at 0.5-1.1%.
• NaturePreserve™ LB2: A natural origin, water-soluble broad-spectrum preservative effective at pH 2.0-6.5. Use at 0.5-1.0%. Avoid heat above 50°C during mixing.

Basic Method for Making Herbal Shampoo

1. In the water phase, disperse Xanthan Gum and stir or blend until a gel forms.
2. Add Coco Glucoside and any water-soluble herbal extracts to the gel base and mix gently until uniform.
3. Add your chosen preservative and mix well.
4. Gradually add a solution of Citric Acid (dissolved in a small amount of water) while continuously stirring. Check the pH with a pH meter or test strip until it reaches the desired range of 5.0-6.5.
5. (Optional) You can add other ingredients like gentle co-surfactants for better foam or conditioning agents at appropriate steps.
6. Package your shampoo.

Remember to perform stability and challenge testing if you plan to sell the product.