How to Make a Gentle SCI Shampoo Bar
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) is widely used in solid cleansers because it produces a creamy lather. In this formula, SCI is paired with a smaller amount of SLSA for foam, BTMS-50 for conditioning, cetyl alcohol for structure, and shea butter for a smooth after-feel.
Safety first: SCI and SLSA powders can become airborne. Wear a particulate mask, gloves, and eye protection, and work with gentle movements in a well-ventilated space. Do not use kitchen equipment for cosmetic formulation.
100 g formula
| Ingredient | Percentage | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| SCI powder | 45% | 45 g |
| SLSA powder | 15% | 15 g |
| Cocamidopropyl betaine | 15% | 15 g |
| BTMS-50 | 6% | 6 g |
| Cetyl alcohol | 4% | 4 g |
| Shea butter | 7% | 7 g |
| Vegetable glycerin | 3% | 3 g |
| Hydrolyzed protein | 2% | 2 g |
| Broad-spectrum preservative* | 1% | 1 g |
| Skin-safe fragrance | 1% | 1 g |
| Citric acid solution | q.s. | up to 1 g |
*Use a preservative that is compatible with the formula and follow the supplier's exact usage rate and temperature limits.
Method
- Combine SCI and SLSA carefully while wearing protective equipment.
- In a heat-safe vessel, combine cocamidopropyl betaine, BTMS-50, cetyl alcohol, shea butter, and glycerin.
- Heat gently in a water bath until the waxes melt and the mixture becomes a thick paste.
- Fold in the powdered surfactants slowly. Continue mixing until evenly combined.
- When the mixture cools to the temperature specified by the preservative supplier, mix in hydrolyzed protein, preservative, and fragrance.
- Test a 10% dilution with a calibrated pH meter. Adjust gradually with diluted citric acid toward approximately pH 5.0–5.5.
- Press firmly into a mold. Allow the bars to harden and dry for at least 48 hours before testing.
Use and storage
Wet the bar and hair, build lather in the hands or apply gently to the scalp, then rinse thoroughly. Store the bar on a draining soap dish and allow it to dry between uses.
References
- SCI/SLSA shampoo bar process and protective equipment: https://www.savvyhomemade.com/sci-shampoo-bar/
- Example percentage-based SCI formula: https://borealbloomhomestead.com/shampoo-bar-recipe/
This is an educational starting formula, not a guarantee of commercial safety or stability. Perform preservative efficacy, stability, compatibility, and user testing before sale.
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