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How can I Buy the Right Shampoo for my Hair Type?

By Garry Crystal
Updated Feb 27, 2024
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The first and most obvious thing to consider when buying shampoo is your hair type. Your hair type will usually fall into one of three categories: dry, normal, or greasy. However, you may have a combination of types, and your hair may be sometimes dry and sometimes greasy, depending on the weather. You may also have colored or heat damaged hair. Whatever your type, there is a shampoo to cater for it.

You can also buy shampoos to give your hair extra body or to revive tired hair. There are also shampoos available for thinning hair. If you walk into any superstore, the haircare range available can be staggering. If you want to know the best type of shampoo for your hair, try asking your hairdresser.

Shampoos bought from professional hairdressers are usually of a much better quality. Many shampoos bought from stores contain a high amount of silicone. This is a kind of plastic that adds shine by coating the hair shaft. The best shampoos do not include silicone, but use more natural ingredients such as herbs and Awapuhi. Shampoos bought from a hairdresser typically cost more than store bought shampoo, but the end result will be worth it.

Our hair is attacked every day by pollutants in the air. Car exhaust fumes, tobacco smoke, and even the act or running your hands through your hair will add to the dirt. If you live in a big city, the problem is even worse. Most hair professionals recommend washing your hair every day. For this, you need a gentle cleansing shampoo that will not strip the hair of its nutrients.

If you have dry hair, try using a shampoo that gives your hair extra moisture. Follow it up with a good conditioner that can be applied every day after washing. Usually called leave-in conditioners, these can be smoothed onto your hair and do not need to be washed out. They are great for giving the hair extra moisture.

Make sure you know your hair type before choosing a shampoo. Also, make sure that the shampoo is compatible with your scalp. You may have a dry scalp or suffer from dandruff. There are shampoos specially designed to deal with these problems. If you apply the wrong shampoo, it will only make the problem worse.

There are numerous shampoos available for colored hair. Colored hair may also fall under the category of damaged hair due to the chemicals used when coloring. If the color in your hair is beginning to fade, use a shampoo especially designed to bring back the color. Likewise, if your hair has been damaged by using hot straightening tongs, use a shampoo that will help repair the damage and add moisture.

Your hair may differ in type depending on the time of year. Weather conditions such as humidity and the cold all have an effect on your hair. The proper shampoo and conditioner will be able to combat these conditions and leave your hair looking glossy and healthy.

WiseGEEK is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Discussion Comments

By Sunny27 — On Jul 25, 2010

Comfyshoes- Have you ever tried Komenuku Bijin? It is supposed to be a natural hair shampoo made of rice oil, seaweed, rice bran, and water. It sells for $32.

By comfyshoes — On Jul 25, 2010

Sunshine31- I like to try a variety of shampoos and conditioners. It keeps my hair looking better that way.

The only hair products that I use on a regular basis are my Aveda pomade and my oil spray, which I love. It keeps my hair smooth and shiny and controls the frizz.

By sunshine31 — On Jul 25, 2010

I usually use Garnier Fructis Body Boost shampoo for all hair types. It is the best hair shampoo I have ever tried.

I also use the Garnier Fructis sleek and shine conditioner. It contains avocado and apricot oil along with vitamin B3 and vitamin B6.

Both products have left my hair soft and shiny. I have curly hair, but no frizz since I have started using these products. They are the best hair shampoo and conditioner.

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