The Hair Lab Clarifying Shampoo with Apple Cider Vinegar for Oily Scalp Sulfate & Paraben Free 11 oz.
Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This shampoo is free from sulfates and parabens, which is beneficial for maintaining scalp health. It includes gentle surfactants derived from coconut oil and apple cider vinegar, which help cleanse and clarify the hair without stripping natural oils. However, the presence of synthetic fragrance and the overall level of processing limit its score, as these factors can contribute to potential irritation and reduce the product's overall natural profile.
Key ingredients 17
SODIUM LAUROYL METHYL ISETHIONATEGood
Sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate is a gentle surfactant known for its mildness and ability to produce a creamy lather. It is derived from coconut oil and is considered safe for sensitive skin. It is effective in cleansing without causing dryness.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause mild irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to cleanse the hair while maintaining moisture balance.
GLYCERINGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the hair and scalp. It helps to keep hair hydrated and can improve the overall texture. It is widely used in hair care products for its moisturizing properties.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with glycerin in hair care products.
Benefits
It helps to maintain moisture levels in the hair, preventing dryness and frizz.
SODIUM METHYL COCOYL TAURATEGood
Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is known for its gentle cleansing properties and ability to produce a rich lather. It is suitable for sensitive skin and hair.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It provides gentle cleansing and helps to maintain the hair's natural moisture balance.
PYRUS MALUS (APPLE) FRUIT VINEGARGood
Apple fruit vinegar is known for its clarifying properties. It helps to remove buildup and balance the scalp's pH. It is a natural ingredient that can improve hair shine and manageability.
Risks
In some cases, it may cause irritation if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
It helps to clarify the hair and scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
GLUCONOLACTONEGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It helps to maintain moisture levels in the hair, improving softness and manageability.
WATERNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in many cosmetic products. It acts as a base for the formulation, helping to dissolve other ingredients. It does not have any direct benefits or risks in the context of a shampoo.
Risks
There are no known risks associated with water in cosmetic formulations.
Benefits
Water helps to distribute other ingredients evenly throughout the hair.
COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINENeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
In rare cases, it may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
It provides gentle cleansing and helps to create a rich lather.
SODIUM LAURYLGLUCOSIDES HYDROXYPROPYLSULFONATENeutral
This ingredient is a surfactant used for its cleansing properties. It is considered mild and effective in removing dirt and oil from the hair. It is generally safe for use in hair care products.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It helps to cleanse the hair without being overly harsh.
ACRYLATES CROSSPOLYMER-4Neutral
Acrylates crosspolymer-4 is used as a thickening agent and film-former in cosmetic products. It helps to stabilize the formulation and improve texture. It does not have direct benefits or risks in the context of a shampoo.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It helps to improve the texture and stability of the shampoo.
COCAMIDOPROPYL HYDROXYSULTAINENeutral
Cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine is a surfactant and foam booster. It helps to enhance the lathering properties of the shampoo. It is generally considered safe for use in hair care products.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It helps to improve the lather and cleansing efficacy of the shampoo.
SODIUM BIS-HYDROXYETHYLGLYCINATE COCO-GLUCOSIDES CROSSPOLYMERNeutral
This ingredient is used as a conditioning agent and surfactant. It helps to improve the texture and feel of the hair. It is generally considered safe for use in hair care products.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It helps to condition the hair and improve manageability.
POLYQUATERNIUM-7Neutral
Polyquaternium-7 is a conditioning agent that helps to improve the texture and feel of the hair. It provides a smooth and silky finish. It is generally considered safe for use in hair care products.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It helps to condition the hair and reduce static and frizz.
GLYCOL DISTEARATENeutral
Glycol distearate is used as a pearlizing agent and emollient. It helps to improve the appearance and texture of the shampoo. It is generally considered safe for use in hair care products.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It helps to improve the visual appeal and texture of the shampoo.
PEG-150 DISTEARATENeutral
PEG-150 distearate is used as a thickening agent and emulsifier. It helps to stabilize the formulation and improve texture. It is generally considered safe for use in hair care products.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It helps to improve the texture and stability of the shampoo.
SODIUM STEAROYL LACTYLATEBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It helps to condition the hair and improve the texture of the shampoo.
SODIUM BENZOATEBad
Synthetic preservative that can form benzene in the presence of vitamin C.
Risks
In rare cases, it may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
It helps to preserve the product and prevent spoilage.
FRAGRANCEVery Bad
Fragrance is often a mixture of various chemicals used to impart scent. It can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in sensitive individuals. The specific composition is usually not disclosed, making it difficult to assess safety.
Risks
It may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It provides a pleasant scent to the product.
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