Ingredient Decoder
Single-ingredient deep dives — sulfates, silicones, keratin, protein and more, explained in plain English.
Polyquaternium-7 Explained: What It Does for Your Hair
Polyquaternium-7 is a common conditioning polymer in shampoos and conditioners. Learn how it works, who benefits, and ho...
Occlusive Moisturizer: How to Read the Formula and Use It Well
An occlusive moisturizer can reduce water loss and support dry skin. Learn how to read the label, choose the right textu...
Using Glycerin as a Moisturizer: What Hair and Skin Need to Know
Using glycerin as a moisturizer can help attract water to dry skin and hair. Learn how it works, where it fits in a form...
Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate: What This Cleanser Really Does for Hair
Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate explained by a former haircare formulator: learn what it does, who benefits, and how to read ...
Salmon pdrn: A Formulator’s Guide to Reading the Hype
Salmon pdrn explained by a former formulation chemist: learn what it is, how labels reveal quality, what evidence sugges...
Sulfates Are Not the Enemy: What Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Actually Does
Are sulfates really bad for your hair? A former formulation chemist breaks down what SLS actually does, which hair types...
Dimethicone Explained: Why "Silicone-Free" Isn't Automatically Better
Is dimethicone really bad for your hair? A former formulation chemist explains what silicones actually do, which hair ty...
Protein vs. Moisture
Protein gives hair strength. Moisture gives flexibility. A former formulation chemist explains how to test your hair's e...
The Truth About Keratin: What It Can (and Can't) Fix
Keratin isn't a miracle repair – but it's not a scam either. A cosmetic formulator explains what hydrolysed keratin actu...