Shopping for Shampoo? Get to Know Your Hair First

How do you know which is the right shampoo and conditioner for you? Here are a few guidelines that will help you face that long, lonely walk down the hair care aisle:

Know your hair and scalp type. Is it normal, dry, oily, color-treated, permed, fine/thinning, curly, gray or silver? There's a shampoo and conditioner for each type. If you're not sure, ask your hair stylist for help. 

Curly hair usually benefits from shampoos and conditioners that give added moisture to combat dryness and frizz.

 If your hair has been colored or highlighted, always use a color-safe shampoo to prevent premature fading.

 If you need a dandruff shampoo for your scalp problem, you may have to try several before you find one that works for you. Anti-dandruff contains active agents like Selenium Sulfide or Ketoconazole (used in Nizoral dandruff shampoo) can fade your hair color, so try to select the mildest anti-dandruff formulation that still controls your dandruff.

 There are many medicated shampoos and scalp conditioners on the market for scalp problem and conditions like psoriasis, allergic scalp, itchy scalp etc. Ask for a recommendation from your doctor or your hair care professional. And of course, read our articles!

 Try selecting two different brands of product, then alternate them for best results (example: a dandruff shampoo and a normal shampoo.)

 Go with a brand name you trust. Professional salon products are made by companies that value their reputation for quality products so their claims are usually reliable.

 Always read the label before trying a new product.

A pretty bottle and a lovely smell are nice little extras. But the best way to find a shampoo or conditioner for your hair and scalp problem that can deliver real, noticeable benefits is to carefully match it to the unique needs of your hair. Once you know your hair, shopping for hair care products and solving your hair and scalp problem gets a lot easier.