How does shampoo work?

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Shampoo is supposed to clean your hair by removing dirt, extra oil, dead skin cells, and other product build-up left in the hair and the scalp. However, the many choices of shampoos use a variety ingredients to do this cleansing.

Surfactants, which are cleansers, are used in shampoos; some are harsh and can irritate sensitive scalps (like sodium lauryl sulphate and TEA-lauryl sulphate). Other shampoos use conditioning agents (yes, in shampoo – not just shampoo with conditioner) like silicone and protein. Some of the other ingredients produce a good lather, some give the product its pleasing scent, and others give it its consistency and appearance.

Next Page: How should I decide between shampoos?

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