Your quickie guide to this wash day must-have.
What it is: Think of clarifying shampoo as your regular shampoo’s very intense older sister. It does a super thorough job of removing dirt, gunk, hard water minerals, and product build-up from your hair and scalp. And if you’ve been swimming, it’ll get the chlorine out, too.
Why you need it: Sometimes regular shampoo just won’t get the job done. If you wash your hair and still feel like it’s not clean (or if it still feels itchy), it might be a sign your hair is in need of deep cleansing.
When to use it: Every few weeks, or when your scalp is feeling super itchy. But don’t overdo it: A clarifying shampoo shouldn’t be part of your weekly routine, because it can strip your hair of its natural and necessary oils. That’s why it’s a good idea to follow it up with a deep conditioner or hair mask to strengthen back up your strands after such a deep clean.
Brands to consider: Here’s a good product roundup if your hair is prone to buildup. Do you have a clarifying shampoo you use and love?