The sneaky culprit behind your limp locks might be what's in your go-to bottle.
By Kayleen Schaefer, SELF
(Photos: Courtesy of Oribe Hair Care; Bumble and Bumble; Philip Kingsley)
If your shampoo regimen is as dated as "lather, rinse, repeat" it's time for a whole new mantra. Get to know the latest ways to come clean: Co-washing, scalp shampoo and preshampoo. And there's a reboot for every hair type, whether you're managing frizz or repairing damage. Commit these terms to memory and get ready for a fresh start.
Co-Wash
What It Is: Short for conditioner wash, it's a hair cleanser that's made without sulfates (so it doesn't foam up in the shower). Instead, it removes buildup using essential oils like orange blossom. Try Oribe Cleansing Crème for Moisture & Control ($44)
Who It's For: People with curly or coarse hair that tends to frizz easily. Since co-washes are formulated without harsh ingredients, they can clean your hair without stripping away the natural oils it needs to stay smooth and tame.
When to Use It: It depends on your hair's thickness. If yours is fine, a co-wash could weigh it down (in that case, use one only when it feels dry). Those with thick hair can apply every day. For all hair types: Rinse well and skip the conditioner.
Scalp Shampoo
What It Is: It's like a face scrub, only for your head. Most rely on nongritty chemical exfoliants to whisk away dead skin and impurities. Try Bumble and Bumble Full Potential Hair Preserving Shampoo, $31
Who It's For: Women with thin or weak hair that's prone to breakage. Regularly buffing your scalp helps clear away any excess oil and product residue; it also boosts circulation to the follicles, which can help your hair stay thick and bouncy.
When to Use It: Unlike your face scrub, scalp shampoos are gentle enough to be used daily. Many formulas contain soothing ingredients such as rosemary-leaf extract. Massage in, rinse throughly, then apply conditioner.
Preshampoo
What It Is: A protective treatment you put on before you shampoo. It works to shield hair from potential damage that can occur when washing. Try Philip Kingsley Geranium & Neroli Fragranced Elasticizer, $52
Who It's For: Those with delicate, damaged or color-treated hair. These nourishing fixes are often packed with amino acids and wheat proteins, so they strengthen strands and seal in a healthy dose of shine.
When to Use It: For most hair types, one to two times a week is best. Apply on the lower half of strands (avoiding the roots). Let sit for 5 to 20 minutes, then rinse, shampoo and condition as usual.