Shampoo is an important component of hygiene and keeping the hair healthy. However, most shampoos that are developed for adult use have active ingredients that can burn and irritate the eyes. Using these shampoos on children or infants can be painful if the child does not understand enough to keep the eyes closed until the shampoo has been completely removed. To remedy this problem, several companies have developed baby shampoos, that help reduce the effects of shampoo stinging the eyes.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Cocamidopropyl betaine is a surfactant detergent that is more mild than other surfactants found in adult shampoos. Derived from coconut oil, this surfactant works by releasing dirt and oils from the surface of the scalp and hair shaft, leaving the hair clean.
Sorbitan Laurate
Sorbitan laurate is another mild surfactant that can be used as an active ingredient in baby shampoos. According to the American Chemical Society, sorbitan laurate has a mild cleansing action that helps clean your child's hair.
Sodium Trideceth Sulfate
Sodium trideceth sulfate is a sulfate-based surfactant that helps release dirt and grease in the hair. Like other sulfates in baby shampoo products, this surfactant is used to clean the hair without irritating the eyes or other sensitive membranes on your child.
Distearate
Distearate is used in baby shampoos as a thickening agent, or emulsifier. A watery shampoo is difficult to pour into the hands and apply to your child. Thickening the shampoo with distearate helps the shampoo stay in your hands, and aids in application during shampooing.
Polyquaternium-10
Polyquaternium-10 is a viscosity building (thickening) agent. Polyquaternium-10 is also a cationic conditioning agent, meaning that it neutralizes negative charges in your hair and the other shampoo ingredients, helping your hair lay flat after washing.
Tetrasodium EDTA
Tetrasodium EDTA is a chelating agent. Many households have water that is considered "hard" water, or water that is high in iron, calcium and other metal ions. These metal ions can interrupt the abilities of the surfactants in baby shampoo to clean. Tetrasodium EDTA neutralizes these metal ions, making surfactants work better on your child's hair.
Quaternium-15
Quaternium-15 is used as a preservative in baby shampoos, increasing the shelf life of the product.
Citric Acid
Citric acid is used to adjust the pH level of the baby shampoo, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Lowering the pH of the shampoo helps hair lay more flat, and may also increase the softness and shine of the hair strands.
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