Shampoo

Shampoo is just shampoo, right? A liquid detergent with some fancy scent added? If that were true we could all just use dishwashing soap on our heads and call it a day. But shampoo is more than just soap, and the right one can make a difference in how your hair looks and feels.

Shampoos are designed to clean your hair and your scalp. They contain surfactants, or detergents, that lift dirt and oil off the hair so they can be rinsed away. Most shampoos clean your hair very well. Where they differ is how your hair feels afterward. Some surfactants are stronger than others, and might strip away too much of your natural oils. Most shampoos also contain a bit of conditioner, which can make a difference in how your hair feels afterward.

Key Features of Shampoo

Settling on the right product for your hair can be a matter of trial and error. Most shampoos today fall into one of a few categories; figure out which category suits your head, then try a few different products.

Clarifying shampoos contain heavy-duty surfactants. Some are too strong for daily use. They are usually intended to be used once or twice a week to deep clean hair and remove the gunky build-up of conditioners, sprays, and gels we dump on our heads.

Body building or volumizing shampoos promise to add body to limp hair. They often contain proteins that bond to hair and "pump it up."

Moisturizing shampoos are the best choice for dry, flyaway hair. They can cut down on static, make split ends look better (by gluing them together with proteins), and pull moisture onto hair to keep it from getting too dry.

Revitalizing or replenishing shampoos are made for color-treated, permed, and damaged hair. Some surfactants can be too harsh on treated hair; these shampoos often use a gentler cleanser, and have ingredients that protect color from fading or help to repair split ends and other damage.

Dandruff shampoos contain medication that loosens and rinses away those annoying flakes. Be sure to leave it on long enough to do its job-some need a few minutes.

2-in-1 shampoos with conditioner save time in the shower by giving you both products in one bottle. The only drawback is that some leave your hair feeling not as well conditioned as if you'd used a separate conditioner, especially if your hair needs serious conditioning.

Swimmer's shampoos remove chlorine and other minerals that can build up on your hair in the pool, causing damage, discoloration, and even a funny odor.

How to Use Shampoo

You might find that the only discernible difference between products is the fragrance, or an ability to work up a good lather, neither of which really affects your hair. And don't be afraid to experiment with less expensive products. For keeping your hair clean, they're generally just as effective as higher priced "salon" formulas.