Hair woes are common and can mar anyoneâs appearance. Complaints keep coming about hair looking limp, rough, puffy and frizzy. There can be many causes of hair problems like hormone imbalance, genetics, improper diet, etc. But most of the times it is the use of faulty products that is responsible for the damage. If you are not using the right type of shampoo and conditioner then the health and appearance of your hair will suffer. The main function of the shampoo is to cleanse your hair. Thereafter, conditioner is doused to smoothen hair. Here is a guide to choose the right type of products for healthy and lustrous tresses.
1. Consider hair type
The first mantra is to buy products that suit your hair type. Each one of us have different type of hair such as oily, dry, normal, curly, silky, etc. Most of the manufacturers provide instructions about the type of hair the shampoo and conditioner would suit. Therefore, before picking a product, read the fine print on the pack.
2. Caring for oily hair
People with oily hair should go for a shampoo that cleanses thoroughly and use a lightweight conditioner. Oily hair attracts dirt and grime and requires intense cleansing. As sebum production is already high, heavy conditioners will only make hair appear clammy. Astringent based products or those with panthenol and citrus fruit extracts are the best for oily hair.
3. Dry hair needs moisturizing
Mild shampoos with a heavy conditioner agree with dry hair. Also, a leave in conditioner or serum should be applied on damp hair. People with dry hair should pick products containing essential fatty acids, lipids, and fatty alcohols.
4. Treatment for normal hair
Normal or combination hair requires maintaining moisture level. Therefore, a shampoo with a mild detergent is the best pick.
5. Thickness of your mane
Products for thick tresses and those meant for thin hair are quite different. People with thin hair should go for gentle conditioners as oils get distributed easily throughout the hair. Vice versa, concentrated conditioners are suitable for thick hair. An intense conditioning treatment is required because moisture does not easily penetrate through the bulky hair shaft.
6. Read the ingredients
Read the label before purchasing any hair care product to understand of its benefits. Some shampoos are good for oily hair while others can tackle dandruff problems or hair fall issues. Also, there are special shampoos for sun, chlorine or color damaged hair. So, pick a shampoo that provides a solution to your unique hair problem.
7. Pick acidic shampoo
Alkaline based shampoos can make hair greasy while extremely acidic ones can dry them out. So, it is very important to pick shampoos with the right ph level. Mostly a ph between 4.5 to 5.5, which is slightly acidic, is the best. It directs hair cuticles downwards, and makes hair appear lustrous and healthy. Beware of the common myth that shampoos with a neutral ph are the best for you.
8. Go organic
Buy hair care products that contain organic substances. Avoid buying products with harmful chemicals or animal ingredients. Synthetic elements contain harmful irritants, carcinogens, allergens, and toxins that damage health of the hair. Also, biodegradable shampoos and conditioners which remove dirt and clean pores thoroughly are an excellent option.
9. Climatic conditions
Your surroundings also affect the appearance of your hair. In humid air, hair will look clumpy and attract dust and dirt. Such hair requires intense cleansing. On the other hand, in dry air hair becomes dull and dehydrated. In such conditions, it is necessary to use a heavy conditioner.
