comprehensive ingredient post/thread?

[ap1524]

I tried to do a search for a comprehensive thread that identifies, with some degree of scientific specificity, what common ingredients in shampoo and conditioners actually are. Not coming from a biology or chemistry background, I thought it might be helpful to have such a post lurking out there that showed what these chemicals are or claim to do. My searches turned up sooo many hits that I got a bit discouraged, but having come back to this board after a bit of a hiatus, maybe I missed it? Sorry in advance if this topic has already been addressed!

For example...

Shampoo chemical: sodium lauryl sulfate:
summary: SLS is a highly effective surfactant used in any task requiring the removal of oily stains and residues. As such the compound is found in high concentrations in industrial products including engine degreasers, floor cleaners, and car wash soaps.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodium_lauryl_sulfate

[Flaxen]

No, I don't recall anyone ever doing one here. Most of the time people have given links to outside sources like Paula Begoun's Dictionary (http://www.cosmeticscop.com/cosmetic-ingredient-dictionary.aspx) :smile:

[rogue_psyche]

I don't know of an in-forum one, but Tightly Curly has a pretty extensive one. http://www.tightlycurly.com/ingredients/

[ap1524]

These are both awesome resources, thanks so much!