Peat Shampoo
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.
Brands
| Brand | Country | Product | Key Ingredient |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sphagnum Botanicals | Estonia | Hair Growth Shampoo, Psoriasis Shampoo, Medicated Psoriasis Shampoo (3% salicylic acid) | Fulvic acid (2%), humic acid (40%) from Nordic peat |
| Tołpa | Poland | Tołpa Green Normalizing Shampoo | Peat extract (TPP-derived) |
| Nurme | Estonia | Soothing Scalp Peat Shampoo with Tea Tree Oil | Estonian bog peat + tea tree + menthol |
| The INKEY List | UK | Fulvic Acid Brightening Cleanser | 0.5% Finnish peat fulvic acid |
Evidence & Claims
Antifungal and keratolytic properties address Malassezia and flaking
Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action helps control scalp seborrheic dermatitis
Scalp environment improvement (pH normalization, sebum regulation) supports healthier hair growth conditions
Water-soluble fulvic acids are the primary active in shampoo formulations
Humic acids provide anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action