Shampoos are complex formulations composed of various ingredients, mostly surfactants. "Cosmetic Science and Technology: Theoretical Principles and Applications" explains that up to 20% of shampoo is made of surfactants, which create foam. However, shampoos typically contain stronger and more concentrated surfactants than body washes. This means that shampoo on the skin can disrupt the skin's natural protective barrier, leading to itchiness, skin reactions, sensitivity, and dryness. Yikes.
In contrast, body washes are formulated with ingredients like glycerin, which help moisturize the skin, compensating for what the surfactants wash away. Shampoos, on the other hand, are not designed to moisturize the body. But what if you moisturize your skin afterward? Well, this does not address the pH problem. Shampoos typically have a lower, more acidic pH than body washes, and disrupting your skin's pH balance can result in irritation and may even alter the skin's microbiome.
Furthermore, shampoos often contain fragrances intended to keep the hair smelling fresh. This is a red flag as fragrance is a skincare ingredient to avoid if you have sensitive skin. Even other skin types may react to shampoo fragrance as it is not formulated for the skin. Additionally, shampoos may include additives specifically designed for hair care that offer no benefit to the skin.
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