Shampooing

Shampoo is meant to remove dirt, and excess buildup of natural oils and artificial product from your hair. But there are dozens of different brands to choose from, and even more types within those brands.

Coarse or Curly Hair
Coarse, curly hair is almost always dry hair and the reason why is that oils produced in the scalp don’t travel as easily down the hair shaft as they do with straight hair. Creamy, moisturizing shampoos work best for coarse curly hair. Look for shampoos that contain wheat germ oil, shea butter and nut oils. All these ingredients coat the hair helping to seal in moisture.

Fine Hair
Fine hair is most susceptible to looking ‘oily’ and can get this way after only one day. Opt for a clear shampoo that is mild, and can be used on a daily basis. Use a dry shampoo or talcum powder between washings. Not only will the powder soak up oils, but it adds body as well.

Adding moisture is key for colored, permed and relaxed hair. Unfortunately, overly-processed hair can suffer from oily roots but dry shaft and ends. Therefore, washing processed hair can be tricky business. You want to cleanse the roots while moisturizing the ends. We suggest washing hair every other day with a shampoo made for normal hair. Concentrate on cleaning the scalp. Then use a strong moisturizing conditioner only on the mid-shaft to ends of hair.

Colored
Hair experts swear color-protection shampoos contain gentle cleansers and ingredients that preserve color. Other experts suggest shampoos for colored hair are just another way for companies to make money off you. They suggest using a gentle cleanser such as baby shampoo instead of the pricey specialized shampoos.

Permed
Any moisturizing shampoo will work for your hair type but apply it only to roots and rub it in well. Then apply a quick burst of water. While the water is running down the hair shaft, massage hair to remove any dirt and grime. Rinse well. You don’t want to skip the conditioner. Make sure to keep conditioner from the roots. Wash your hair only every few days to prevent drying out. You can use a dry shampoo or if you’re blond, a talcum powder, in between washings.

Dry & Damaged Hair
Avoid clear shampoos and go straight for the creamy ones. These smooth, detangle and diffuse static. Again, moisturizing is key. You’ll want to look for an ultra-moisturizing conditioner.