Using orange peel and green tea extract as active ingredients in a solid shampoo, two students from Sebelas Maret University (UNS) in Surakarta have achieved third place in the National Scientific Paper Competition (LKTIN). They are Paulina, a student in the D-4 Occupational Health and Safety (K3) Study Program at the School of Vocational (SV), and Kalimaya Qolbi Sani, a student in the S-1 Chemical Engineering Study Program at the Faculty of Engineering (FT) at UNS.

This achievement was earned in a competition known as the Chemistry Festival (CHEMFEST), organized by the Chemistry Student Association of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) at Hasanuddin University (Unhas) on March 18-20, 2023. They secured third place with the solid shampoo product they created.

Their idea emerged from observing many people around them experiencing issues like hair loss and dandruff. Often, these problems are related to the use of shampoos, anti-hair loss, and dandruff products containing chemicals. Therefore, they innovated by creating a solid shampoo made from natural ingredients, including orange peel, which was previously considered waste material.

This solid shampoo is also designed in a compact size, making it easy to carry while traveling. In addition to addressing hair issues, this product also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030 by reducing negative environmental impacts, especially in the context of water pollution.

Both of them were overjoyed when announced as the third-place winners in this competition. They admitted that they did not expect or believe in this achievement, especially given their hectic schedules. They also expressed their pride in representing UNS and hoped to continue creating and inspiring others with future achievements.