The importance of shampooing has been drilled into our brains since we were little. Having grease and grime on our scalps isn't very appealing, after all. What our moms likely didn't tell us? Which shampoo -- of the many options -- we should be using.
Just like not all conditioners are created equal, shampoos differ widely. While some things may be obvious (if your hair is fine and straight, don't use a product made for thick, curly strands), we also understand that the countless choices can be overwhelming.
So, we've consulted some of the top hair insiders in the biz on which cleanser is best for which tress type. Click through to see their picks for long, short, and everything in-between. Because, visiting the beauty aisle shouldn't give you a mini panic attack.
Textured
If you're looking for a clarifying shampoo for your textured strands, try Kinky-Curly Come Clean Shampoo, which is good to use just once every couple of weeks to get rid of product buildup. This clarifier will quickly and easily clean out all of that extra product. Don't overdo it, though, or it will strip your strands of the natural oils they need.
Kinky-Curly Come Clean Shampoo, $12.49, available at Walgreens.
Short Hair
Hairstylist Ryan Richman recommends that women with shorter strands not wash their hair every day. But, he also understands that product buildup and natural oils accumulate much faster in this hair type. The solution: "Choose a shampoo that will cleanse without stripping your hair of natural oils [or leaving] your scalp feeling dry," he says. "Dove Daily Moisture is great for everyday use. It cleanses hair without stripping, while leaving it soft and smooth."
For those "short" on time, he also recommends a dry shampoo, like Dove's Refresh+Care. "With a few sprays, you can refresh your look and absorb product and oil buildup, leaving hair feeling clean with a freshly washed scent."
Dove Daily Moisture Therapy Shampoo, $3.48, available at Walmart.
Long Hair
The key to finding a great shampoo for longer hair is a product that will leave it feeling light as a feather (or close to it). Richman swears by Kérastase's Cristalliste, because it's silicone-free and "leaves lengthy hair looking smooth and beautiful without [weighing] it down."
Kérastase Cristalliste Bain Cristal Thick Shampoo, $39, available at Kérastase.
Fine Hair
The struggle here often lies in lack of body and greasiness. Hairstylist Ryan Trygstad recommends a volumizing shampoo, like Shu Uemura's, which, he says, "Does a great job [at] keeping the hair free of oil and product buildup." If you're looking for a less expensive option, he suggests checking out Neutrogena's Anti-Residue Shampoo.
Shu Uemura Muroto Volume Pure Lightness Shampoo, $48, available at Shu Uemura.
For more of our picks, visit Refinery29.
By: Taylor Bryant
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