Shampoot

Shampoot is a hair cleansing product designed to remove oil, dirt, and product buildup from the hair and scalp. It is typically applied to wet hair, massaged into the scalp, and rinsed away with water. Shampoots are sold as liquids, foams, and solid bars.

Most shampoot formulations rely on surfactants that emulsify oils and suspend dirt. Common ingredients include anionic and nonionic detergents, plus conditioning agents, humectants, and fragrance. The pH is usually mildly acidic to near neutral to protect the cuticle and minimize irritation.

Variants address different needs, including clarifying formulas for mineral buildup, moisturizing formulas for dry hair, color-safe options, and formulas for sensitive scalps. Some shampoots are sulfate-free or silicone-free and may use alternative cleansing agents to reduce potential irritation.

History and terminology: The concept of cleansing hair has ancient roots, while modern shampoos emerged in the early 20th century with synthetic detergents. The term shampoo derives from the Hindi-Urdu chāmpo; “shampoot” appears mainly as brand spellings or regional usage rather than a separate category.

Safety and environment: Shampoots are generally safe when used as directed. They can irritate sensitive skin or eyes, and some formulations raise environmental concerns due to surfactants and packaging. Biodegradable ingredients and recyclable packaging are increasingly promoted. See also: Shampoo.