Why Is Hydrogenated Castor Oil Used in Shampoos?
Hair products often use derivatives of natural elements to achieve the goal of beautiful hair. Hydrogenated castor oil is one such derivative used to help accomplish this objective. Does this Spark an idea?
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Definition
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Castor oil is a vegetable oil obtained from the seeds of the castor plant by hot or cold pressing. Hydrogenated castor oil is achieved by adding hydrogen to castor oil with a nickel catalyst, according to the Castor Oil website. The addition of hydrogen to castor oil makes it less susceptible to oxidation and spoilage. Hydrogenated castor oil is used in shampoos for its emollient and lubricant properties and to help attract more moisture to the hair.
Benefits
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Hydrogenated castor oil in shampoo adds amino acids and moisture to soften hair. It promotes hair growth, thickens hair and reduces, prevents and helps to hide damage. The Faqs website submits that hydrogenated castor oil is commonly used in anti-dandruff shampoos because it acts as a stabilizing agent.
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Considerations
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There are drawbacks to consider when using shampoos containing this ingredient. According to the Naturally Curly website, some people using shampoos containing hydrogenated castor oil report their hair felt sticky and weighed down, whereas others claim their hair appeared frizzy. Shampoos containing castor oil derivatives can also attract other oils and dirt.
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References
- Photo Credit hair image by Pavel Vlasov from Fotolia.com
