How to find the best shampoo for your hair

There are hydrating shampoos and volumizing shampoos, but which shampoo is best for your hair? The fact is, finding the right shampoo for your hair is key if you want your hair to look its very best. Below we share what sets certain formulas apart and exactly how to find the right shampoo for your hair!

First Step, Determine You Hair Type

Before you can find the best shampoo for your hair type you have to determine what your hair type actually is. If you use a hydrating shampoo on fine, thin hair chances are you’ll weigh down your locks. On the flipside, if you use volumizing formula on coarse, curly hair it’s possible you will end up with parched, unruly strands. It’s important to only use formulas that are a fit for your hair type in order to get your best results.

Next Step, Decode Your Shampoo Bottle

There are many types of shampoo to choose from, which is what makes it so difficult to find the right one, but when you know your hair type and how to decode those bottles, it becomes a breeze!

Clarifying Shampoo: These formulas are geared toward removing buildup from your hair—everything from product to excess oil. They are great for oily and straight hair that needs a deep cleanse, but can be harsh on dry and curly hair as they can strip the strands of hydration. If buildup is causing your hair to look a little dull, reach for a clarifying shampoo once every two weeks.

Hydrating Shampoo: These formulas are ideal for hair that could use a little extra moisture. If you have coarse strands or naturally textured hair, you’ll want to use a hydrating formula. Often alcohol-free, these formulas contain naturally-derived oils which can help to replenish your hair with moisture.

Smoothing Shampoos: Love a good blowout? Who doesn’t? Smoothing or straightening shampoos can coat the hair and make for a smoother, frizz-free blow-dry. If you have naturally curly or wavy hair that you like the straighten, this could be the formula for you.

Color-Safe Shampoos: If you color your hair use formulas that have been created for color-treated hair. These shampoos are designed to be gentle on color so that color does not fade quickly.

Volumizing Shampoos: Fine hair types should always look for volumizing formulas which can help to make hair look fuller. These shampoos are typically lightweight and not as hydrating as other formulas.

Sulfate-Free Shampoos: Sulfates are cleansing agents found in many shampoo formulas. When shampoo is sulfate-free don’t expect the suds, these agents are responsible for that foamy lather.

Purple Shampoos: If you have blonde hair that you want to keep from developing a brassy tone, you’ll want to invest in a purple-tinted shampoo. Used once a week, these shampoos act as toners and help to neutralize warm tones in your hair.

Don’t Forget to Condition!

To get the most out of whatever type of shampoo you use, you’ll always want to make sure you follow up with a complementary conditioner. Shampoos—regardless of how hydrating—can strip your hair of moisture so you’ll want to condition your hair—focusing on the ends—after every wash.