Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (anionic):
A very mild, coconut-based surfactant. I use a finely milled powder version, which makes it easy to work into the bars. It’s often referred to as “baby foam,” which only confirms how gentle it is.
To achieve an even milder effect, it’s best to combine surfactants with different charges (anionic, amphoteric, non-ionic — a little chemistry never hurts). That’s why I use three different types in my shampoo bars.
Disodium Cocoyl Amphodiacetate (amphoteric):
This is the second mild surfactant in the bars, also coconut-derived. I chose this ingredient specifically because I am personally allergic to cocoamidopropyl betaine.
Decyl Glucoside (non-ionic):
A third, very gentle surfactant. It is made from a reaction between glucose from corn starch and the fatty alcohol caprine alcohol, which is derived from coconut and/or palm oil.
Cetearyl Alcohol & Stearic Acid:
Both are fatty acids that help bind all ingredients into a solid, smooth shampoo bar. They boost the foam and contribute to a soft, silky feel on hair and skin.
Hydrogenated Rapeseed Oil:
Rapeseed oil that has been converted into a firm wax through a specific process, giving the bar more hardness while preserving the nourishing qualities of the oil.
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate:
Made from various plant oils and citric acid. This emulsifier binds the ingredients together while also nourishing the hair — a true win-win.
Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil (Grapeseed Oil):
A lightweight plant oil rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supporting strong, shiny hair.
Glycerin:
An essential humectant. It hydrates the hair and draws moisture from the air, helping keep hair hydrated for longer.
Theobroma Cacao Butter:
This plant butter nourishes the hair and adds extra conditioning.
Isoamyl Laurate:
A natural ester that functions like a silicone — but a safe, plant-based version. It increases conditioning and makes hair even easier to detangle.
Benzyl Alcohol & Dehydroacetic Acid:
A shampoo bar doesn’t strictly require preservatives, but I believe no mold or bacteria should develop on the bars. That’s why I include a preservative system. This is one of the mildest available and is approved by COSMOS and Ecocert. Both ingredients are used in minimal concentrations.
Perfume (Limonene, Linalool, Citral, Citronellol, Hexamethylindanopyran, Terpinolene, Tetramethylacetyloctahydronaphthalenes):
I love pleasant fragrances in my products. These are natural fragrance components present in the perfume of the Sea Splash bar. A small group of people may be sensitive to them, which is why they must be listed.
Sodium Phytate, Aqua, Alcohol:
A sodium salt complex of phytic acid, derived from grains, vegetables, and nuts. Used in the shampoo bars because it binds to minerals and impurities — especially useful in regions with hard water.
Lactic Acid:
It is essential that a shampoo bar has the correct acidity (ideally between 4.5 and 6 to match the pH of skin and hair). I use lactic acid to achieve the perfect value. It also helps cleanse the scalp more effectively — another win-win.
Ulva Lactuca:
Better known as sea lettuce — a seaweed rich in vitamins, amino acids, and minerals. Full of natural nutrients from the sea to nourish the hair.
CI77019, CI77891, CI77861, CI77007:
These are the pigment codes for the mica used in the shampoo. I chose mica specifically from a supplier who guarantees it is sourced without child labor.
