By Cosmetic Peat Editorial Team Updated June 2026
Peat Shampoo
Therapies
Also known as: peat shampoo, humic shampoo, fulvic acid shampoo
Method: topical
Duration: 2–5 minutes contact time
Frequency: Daily or alternate days
Temperature: Room temperature
Preparation: Peat extract or humic/fulvic acid incorporated into surfactant-based shampoo formulation
Peat shampoo is the most accessible and frequently used peat hair care product. Lower concentration than scalp masks or tonics, but higher frequency of use compensates. The rinse-off format limits contact time, making fulvic acids (water-soluble, fast-absorbing) more important than humic acids in this application.
Formulation Considerations
Peat’s natural acidity (pH 3.5–5.5) is an advantage — most conventional shampoos are pH 5.5–7.0+, which disrupts the scalp’s acid mantle. A peat shampoo at pH 5.0–5.5 cleanses while supporting natural scalp pH. The dark color of peat extract is a formulation challenge for consumer acceptance.
Claims
References
bovcon-2012 — pH 5.5 peat-containing shampoo used as part of 12-week scalp treatment protocol
wollina-2009 — Review: peat humic substances for inflammatory skin conditions including seborrheic dermatitis