Biodegradable shampoo and biodegradable soap are products with minimal to no adverse environmental impacts as opposed to their generic counterparts. Most shampoos and soaps are made with antibacterial ingredients that extend their shelf life but wreak havoc on the environment once disposed of. 

With increasing awareness on sustainability and the impacts small decisions can make, biodegradable shampoos fill a much needed gap in the market that addresses the environmental issue of disposable soaps, while not sacrificing its effectiveness. Below we will take an in-depth look at the differences between biodegradable shampoos, if it’s feasible to make your own, and the benefits of making the switch.

What’s the Difference Between Traditional Shampoo and Biodegradable Shampoo?

Although it might seem there are few contrasts between the two, biodegradable shampoos offer more benefits than people realize, beyond just its environmental impact.

Still, the main difference is that biodegradable shampoo is completely natural and derived from sustainable materials, and doesn’t contain toxic synthetic material. Biodegradable shampoos also adapt to all hair types, minimizing irritation. 

Can You Make Biodegradable Shampoo?

Like many things, it’s very popular for people to be interested in making their own biodegradable shampoo. After all, who wouldn’t want to make products that are good for themselves and the environment? 

However, due to the sensitive nature of our scalp and hair, shampoo is one of those things that are better off being left to the experts. That way, you know what you’re getting and don’t run the risk of causing damage to your hair. If you’re really motivated, below is a very common ingredient list for biodegradable shampoo.

Common Biodegradable Shampoo Ingredients:

• 1 cup boiling water
• One green tea bag
• A few sage leaves, torn up
• 1 cup liquid of Castille soap
• 6 tsp jojoba oil
• 1/4 tsp peppermint essential oil
• 1/4 tsp tea tree essential oil

Benefits of Biodegradable Shampoo

Aside from its environmental benefits, biodegradable shampoos match or surpass the results of their generic counterpart. These benefits include its formula, soothing capabilities, moisturization, improved look, and much more. Don’t just take our word for it; reach out to someone you may know who has used biodegradable shampoo before. 

Balanced Formula

One of the reasons biodegradable shampoo is so great to use has to do with its balanced formula. Many shampoos contain harmful ingredients that end up doing more harm than good. Natural shampoos don’t fall under that category because of their balanced and natural formula, no matter what option you look into.

Most generic shampoos are quite acidic, and over time, acidic products can be very harmful to a person’s skin. A biodegradable shampoo instead contains ingredients with a more balanced pH. This heavily depends on the company as well, but reliable companies certainly follow this recommendation.

Naturally Soothing

Natural ingredients help make the shampoo itself naturally soothing. Natural products delicately provide nutrients, minerals, oils, and plant concentrates to the hair follicles. These products can likewise aid in the activation of new hair follicles.

The most common ingredients are in almond, ginseng, jojoba, lavender, lemongrass, and Prickly Pear oils. These ingredients also produce excellent aromas and improve a person’s hair’s general surface and presence.

Excellent Moisturization and Prevents Hair Loss

Biodegradable shampoo also moisturizes hair without overly stripping it of its natural oils. This helps retain shine, sleekness and prevents premature hair loss, all the while including all-natural ingredients. 

Examples include aloe vera, coconut oil, and butter. Using healthy and popular products makes it easy for people to know what they’re putting on and in their bodies.

Improve the Look and Feel of Hair

Although traditional shampoos are effective in cleaning hair, they can often lead to over-cleaning. This causes hair to dry out and can cause irritation and dandruff. Additionally, those with skin sensitivities may find that traditional shampoos especially irritating. Switching from generic to natural will result in almost immediate, noticeable change in the look and feel of your hair.

Benefit the Environment

On top of boosting the longevity of the health of our hair, biodegradable shampoos also benefit the environment. As mentioned, traditional shampoos have antibacterial ingredients that give them a more extended life. However, these antibacterial ingredients aren’t biodegradable, and can even be toxic to the environment once disposed of.

Natural, biodegradable shampoos and conditioners break down into non-toxic particles. So, not only are they just as effective as traditional shampoo, but they also minimize our environmental impact. While many environmentally friendly products sacrifice efficiency for sustainability, quality biodegradable shampoos offer the best of both worlds, making it an easy decision to switch for any consumer. 

Where Can I Purchase Biodegradable Shampoo?

If you’re interested in purchasing Biodegradable Shampoo, check out Lowens! We’re a family owned and operated skin care company based in Calgary, Alberta. We pride ourselves on using organic, fair-trade, and locally sourced ingredients to create safe, effective, long-lasting, and affordable skincare products.