Buying shampoo can be stressful and confusing. Some are hydrating and smoothing, while others are for thickening and strengthening – what does it all mean? Let’s break it down. Here are the factors you should consider when choosing shampoos.
Scalp Type
When choosing a shampoo, your scalp must be considered as shampoos have varying cleansing properties. Shampoo is designed to wash your roots, so if you have oily roots, for example, you may need a shampoo that offers less hydration and more cleansing. If you have a drier or tighter scalp, a more moisturizing shampoo would be ideal. If you have a tight scalp after washing (or simply by itself) or an itchy scalp (with or without flakes), you probably have a dry scalp. An oily scalp tends to be shinier, and someone with both dandruff and an oily scalp may have clumpy-looking flakes. Lastly, if you have a scalp that is neither dry nor oily, you have a combination scalp.
Dry Scalps
Having a dry, flaky, or itchy scalp can make you prone to embarrassing or uncomfortable conditions if you do not choose the right shampoo.
· Avoid strengthening, volumizing, and fortifying shampoos and shampoos containing sulfates, which can strip your scalp of natural oils and dry it out.
· Look for shampoos that are hydrating, moisturizing, or smoothing for scalps that are just mildly dry with little to no flaking or itching. These products promote moisture retention and can help with dry scalp.
Oily Scalps
If your scalp tends to be oily, you might seek shampoos that control excess oil and sebum production. Here's what to look for:
· Avoid moisturizing, hydrating, and smoothing shampoos as they have a tendency to provide excessive moisture to your already oily scalp.
· Shampoos with labels that mention volumizing, balancing, or strengthening are less moisturizing and help with excess oil removal.
· Try using two different shampoos that address different needs. Use one shampoo that targets your oily scalp, followed by a different formula for washing below the roots. Spend more time working the shampoo into your scalp, and rinse well.
· A clarifying shampoo can benefit those with extremely oily scalps, but do not overdo it as your scalp can dry out.
· Do not work conditioner into your scalp. Only apply it to the mid-shaft and ends of your hair.
Hair Types
· Fine Hair: Use volumizing shampoos can rejuvenate your hair without weighing it down.
· Curly Hair: Use extra moisturizing shampoos with ingredients that combat frizz without weighing your hair down.
· Straight Hair: Use smoothing shampoos rich in extra moisturizing agents that help seal the cuticles.
· Thick Hair: Use moisturizing or hydrating shampoos that add smoothness, shine, and moisture.
· Wavy Hair: Use balancing shampoos that are not too moisturizing or drying.
· Colored or Damaged Hair: Use fortifying or strengthening shampoos with extra protein that can improve damaged, brittle, weakened or over-processed hair.
Get Your Best Hair with RAM Atelier
Based in Dallas, RAM Atelier is a hair care company specializing in silicone-based hair care products for natural hair, extensions, and wigs. Our Simply Stylin’ product range helps to eliminate frizz, detangle hair, protect hair from heat applications, and keep hair soft and shiny. Look for your nearest Simply Stylin’ retailer today!