by CMID
Shampoo looks simple in a bottle. Yet behind that bottle are several ingredient groups with different functions working together as a system.
One finished product, several functional groups
The actual arrangement can vary with product design. This diagram explains functional roles, rather than establishing a formula or universal ingredient list.
FINISHEDSHAMPOO SYSTEM
Not one cleansing ingredient—a system of functions
Read each group within the complete formula and trial objectives. Shampoos do not all have to use the same arrangement.
“Surfactant” is not one universal material
Surfactants are an important part of the cleansing system. A shampoo may use a surfactant system according to the product characteristics being studied. Candidates must still be assessed through material identity, formula context and trial results, rather than surfactant-family names alone.
Hair-use characteristics are also designed
Depending on product design, conditioning ingredients may help shape hair-care characteristics and the use experience. Their role must be evaluated in the system; this article makes no repair, strengthening or anti-hair-loss claims.
Flow behaviour is part of the formulation experience
Thickeners or rheology modifiers can help shape viscosity, flow characteristics and product structure. Pouring or dispensing behaviour must be assessed within the use context.
THICKER ≠ AUTOMATICALLY BETTERLearn about viscosity evaluation →
pH control and preservation: two different considerations
System / formulation control
pH adjustment is considered within the formulation system and product evaluation. This guide establishes no target pH.
Microbiological product protection
Preservation is considered for product protection within the relevant formula context. No universal system, dosage or compatibility is established here.
Sensory roles differ from the cleansing system
Fragrance, colour and appearance-modifying ingredients may be used according to product design. These roles do not automatically determine cleansing performance and must still be checked within the whole system.
The carrier phase helps form a liquid system
Water can act as a carrier or continuous phase for various components in a water-based shampoo system. Read its role together with the complete formula’s composition and characteristics.
Start with the required role, then evaluate the material
Examples: cleansing, conditioning, flow control or product protection.
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A candidate still needs clear identity, relevant evidence and trials.
Turn functional understanding into a trial process
CMID’s future pathway
CMID’s architecture supports the journeyFunctional Group → Verified Ingredient → CMID Product ID → Toko Sample → Trial → Scale Up. This article displays no products before identity and relationship links have been verified.
Translated text from article illustrations
The text below corresponds to the original artwork. It does not confer additional formulation, use or safety approval. Read it with the scope limits in the article.
Text in illustration 1
What ingredients actually make up a shampoo? A shampoo is usually built from several ingredient groups with different functions.
Cleansing system. Surfactants are an important part of the cleansing system. A shampoo may use a combination of surfactants, rather than just one ingredient. Removes dirt and oil; produces foam; gives a clean sensation.
Conditioning. Helps provide hair-care characteristics and ease of use. Helps hair feel smooth; reduces stiffness or tangling; gives shine and softness.
Viscosity and structure. A thickener or rheology modifier helps establish viscosity and product flow characteristics. Provides appropriate consistency; stabilises the formula; improves the use experience.
Fragrance and other supporting ingredients. Other ingredients used according to formula requirements for product safety, stability, appearance and comfort. Fragrance; preservative; pH adjustment; appearance modifier (colourant); and others.
Key point: composition is not universal. Each shampoo formula is adapted to product objectives and consumer needs.
A more useful question. When starting to make shampoo, the first question is not only “Which chemicals?” A more important question is “Which functions does my formula need?” This makes ingredient selection and trials more structured.
Want to start with a formulation? View Formulation Starter →. Illustrated bottle label: SHAMPOO; CLEANSE • CARE • BALANCE; FORMULATED FOR HEALTHY HAIR; 500 ml.