After 20 years behind the chair, I've seen every haircare trend come and go. But the current obsession with "natural" shampoos? That's one trend worth examining closely - because what you see on the label isn't always what you get in the bottle.
The Rice Water Revelation
Let's talk about Viori's star ingredient: fermented Longsheng rice water. Inspired by China's Red Yao tribe (whose women famously maintain jet-black hair into their 80s), this isn't your average DIY rice rinse.
Why Fermentation Matters
Most at-home recipes get this crucial step wrong. Proper fermentation:
- Boosts inositol (Vitamin B8) by 300-500%
- Increases panthenol (Vitamin B5) by 200%
- Enhances amino acids by 150%
The Fragrance Facade
That lovely "natural" scent? It might not be as pure as you think. Here's what you're really smelling:
- Essential oils (the real deal)
- Nature-identical molecules (lab-made copies)
- Fragrance blends (often undisclosed)
pH: The Silent Hair Killer
Your hair thrives at 4.5-5.5 pH, but many "natural" shampoos miss the mark:
- DIY rice water: Often 6.8-7.4
- Commercial brands: Frequently 8.0+
- Viori's advantage: Maintains 4.5-5.5
Protein Overload Alert
Too much of a good thing? Absolutely. Watch for these warning signs:
- Straw-like texture
- Unexpected breakage
- Loss of elasticity
Sustainability or Greenwashing?
True eco-friendly haircare goes beyond buzzwords. The best brands:
- Use plastic-free packaging
- Source ingredients ethically
- Consider water footprint
The bottom line? Natural doesn't always mean better - but when done right (like with properly fermented rice water), it can be revolutionary for your hair.