You can’t build a great look without the right foundation. And that healthy (i.e. shiny, long and gorgeous) base starts with the right shampoo. But shampoos and conditioners are not all created equal -- they all have different levels of active ingredients designed to target specific hair issues depending on your hair type. Getting gorgeous hair is all about choosing the right shampoo – here’s our guide to figuring out the perfect shampoo for your do.
What’s the Best Shampoo for Your Hair Type?
Got Fine, Flat hair?
Fine hair has up to 50% less protein than thicker hair, so it struggles to stand up against the weight of styling residue, dirt and excess oils. The result? Hair becomes limp and lifeless. Start with a daily volumizing shampoo that is designed to remove excess residue and leave hair squeaky clean. The clear formulation skips the heavy moisturizers so you can get that bouncy, light hair with a thicker, fuller look.
Tackling Thick, Frizzy Tresses?
Thick hair can easily become big and frizzy, so a moisturizing or smoothing shampoo to help tame it is essential. Be generous on the amount of shampoo you use; oftentimes, thicker hair isn’t washed as frequently as fine hair and may need more shampoo to be cleaned. Another alternative is to use a leave-in treatment to combat trouble dry spots.
Controlling Curly, Dry hair?
Curly and dry hair can be a challenge, especially because curl patterns are unique. These curl patterns often block naturally moisturizing scalp oils from making it all the way down the hair shaft, making curly girls prone to more breakage and dryness. Moisturizing shampoos designed for curly hair will help detangle strands and provide protection for wet hair that minimizes breakage. Also, remember to baby those curls by gently massaging your scalp. Then, work shampoo to the ends, and rinse thoroughly.
Love to Color or Highlight Hair?
Shampoos specifically designed for color-treated hair help fill in the protective lipid layer that’s lost when coloring. Reinforcing this protective layer minimizes the amount of water that penetrates hair, helping to keep the color locked inside, so it can stay intense and beautiful. Using a system is important, too—shampoo for color-treated hair is very moisturizing, so pair it with the same type of conditioner, which is designed to provide enough—but not too much—conditioner.
Once you’ve found your shampoo and conditioner soul mate, there's no need to switch it up. Excess build up from styling products, a change in the weather, or even a change of hairstyle can change the way your hair feels and behaves, which may make it seem like your shampoo and conditioner aren’t doing their jobs. Instead of changing your regimen completely, try using a clarifying shampoo to alleviate styling build-up.