California Naturals Classic Coconut Shampoo - 16.5 fl oz: Vegan, Basic Cleansing, All Hair Types Gel, Paraben-Free
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This shampoo features a clean formulation with coconut-derived surfactants that are gentle and effective, making it suitable for sensitive skin. It is free from sulfates, parabens, and silicones, and includes beneficial ingredients like panthenol, coconut water, and avocado oil, which nourish and hydrate the hair. The presence of a food-grade fragrance is a minor concern, but overall, the product maintains a high standard of ingredient safety and hair health impact.
Key ingredients 23
Sodium Lauroyl Methyl IsethionateVery Good
A coconut-derived surfactant known for its mildness and ability to produce a creamy lather. It is sulfate-free and suitable for sensitive skin.
Risks
Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.
Benefits
Provides effective cleansing while maintaining hair's natural moisture.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Liquid EndospermVery Good
This ingredient is rich in nutrients and provides hydration and nourishment to the hair. It is derived from coconut and is considered beneficial for hair health.
Benefits
Nourishes and hydrates the hair, promoting healthy growth.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) WaterVery Good
Coconut water is hydrating and rich in vitamins and minerals. It helps to maintain moisture balance in the hair.
Risks
No known risks associated with coconut water in hair care.
Benefits
Provides hydration and essential nutrients to the hair.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit JuiceVery Good
Coconut fruit juice is nourishing and hydrating, providing essential nutrients to the hair. It is derived from coconut and is beneficial for hair health.
Benefits
Enhances hair moisture and nourishment.
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) OilVery Good
Avocado oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamins, providing deep nourishment and conditioning to the hair. It helps to improve hair elasticity and shine.
Benefits
Deeply conditions and nourishes the hair, enhancing shine and softness.
Cocamidopropyl HydroxysultaineGood
This is a coconut-derived surfactant known for its mildness and ability to create a rich lather. It is less irritating than traditional sulfates and is suitable for sensitive skin.
Risks
In rare cases, it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It effectively cleanses the hair without stripping natural oils, maintaining moisture balance.
Sodium Methyl 2-SulfolaurateGood
Derived from coconut, this surfactant is gentle and effective in cleansing. It is biodegradable and considered environmentally friendly.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause mild irritation if not properly formulated.
Benefits
It provides a gentle cleansing action, suitable for all hair types.
Disodium 2-SulfolaurateGood
This is another coconut-derived surfactant that is mild and effective. It is often used in formulations for sensitive skin due to its gentle nature.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in rare cases.
Benefits
It helps to cleanse the hair gently, preserving natural oils.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the hair and scalp. It helps to keep hair hydrated and soft.
Risks
Overuse can lead to a sticky feeling on the hair.
Benefits
Improves hair moisture and elasticity.
Panthenol (Vitamin B5)Good
Panthenol is known for its moisturizing and conditioning properties. It penetrates the hair shaft, improving moisture retention and elasticity.
Risks
Generally safe with no significant risks.
Benefits
Enhances hair strength and shine.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceGood
Aloe vera is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties. It helps to calm the scalp and hydrate the hair.
Risks
Generally safe, though some individuals may experience mild irritation.
Benefits
Soothes the scalp and provides moisture to the hair.
Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) JuiceGood
Sugar cane juice is a natural source of glycolic acid, which helps to exfoliate and cleanse the scalp. It is beneficial for maintaining a healthy scalp environment.
Risks
May cause mild irritation if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
Promotes a healthy scalp by gently exfoliating and cleansing.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilGood
Sunflower seed oil is rich in vitamins and fatty acids, providing nourishment and moisture to the hair. It helps to improve hair texture and manageability.
Risks
Generally safe with no significant risks.
Benefits
Nourishes and moisturizes the hair, enhancing softness and manageability.
AllantoinGood
Allantoin is known for its soothing and skin-protecting properties. It helps to calm the scalp and promote healing.
Risks
Generally safe with no significant risks.
Benefits
Soothes and protects the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
Sodium HyaluronateGood
Sodium hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid that provides intense hydration to the hair and scalp. It helps to retain moisture and improve hair elasticity.
Risks
Generally safe with no significant risks.
Benefits
Deeply hydrates the hair and scalp, enhancing moisture retention and elasticity.
Aqua/Water/EauNeutral
Water is the primary solvent in most cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the product. It is generally considered safe and non-reactive.
Risks
There are no known risks associated with water in cosmetic formulations.
Benefits
Water helps to hydrate and cleanse the hair and scalp.
Lactic AcidNeutral
Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that helps to adjust the pH of the product. It can also provide mild exfoliation to the scalp.
Risks
May cause irritation if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
Helps to maintain the product's pH balance and provides mild exfoliation.
Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium ChlorideNeutral
This is a conditioning agent derived from guar gum. It helps to improve hair manageability and reduce static.
Risks
Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.
Benefits
Enhances hair smoothness and reduces static.
EthylhexylglycerinNeutral
Ethylhexylglycerin is used as a skin conditioning agent and preservative enhancer. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Enhances the efficacy of preservatives and conditions the skin.
Sodium BenzoateBad
Synthetic preservative that can form benzene in the presence of vitamin C.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
Helps to preserve the product and extend its shelf life.
Potassium SorbateBad
Synthetic preservative — flagged in daily-use products.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Helps to maintain the product's freshness and prevent spoilage.
CaramelBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Benefits
Provides natural color to the product.
Food-Grade FragranceBad
Fragrance in cosmetics can cause allergic reactions and irritation in sensitive individuals. It is often a blend of various chemicals, some of which may be harmful.
Risks
Potential for allergic reactions and irritation.
Benefits
Provides a pleasant scent to the product.
Processing
Processed Foods
Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping
Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.
Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle PlayAmazon pricing & content
Amazon price as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.