Choosing the Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Your Hair Type

Whether it’s dry, oily, or frizzy, everyone’s hair type is unique. Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair type can mean the difference between a fabulous ‘do and a flop.

According to recent data, the global haircare market reached a valuation of $91.2 billion in 2023.

If you’re still searching for the right products, read on to discover which type of shampoo and conditioner will work best for your specific hair type, including options for damaged hair and thinning hair.

Coloured Hair

Whether you use permanent or semi-permanent hair dye, your coloured hair needs special care. Always look for shampoo and conditioner that are specifically labelled as being formulated for colour-treated locks.

If you use products that aren’t deemed for this specific hair type, your colour could fade much faster. It may also lead to your beautifully coloured hair looking dull, drab, and not quite the colour you originally intended.

Anything labelled as colour-safe is a good bet to prevent your beautiful colour from being stripped away. This type of shampoo and conditioner should be devoid of additives and chemicals like parabens and sulphates, which can do serious damage to coloured hair. Most will contain additional moisturising ingredients to keep those colourful strands protected and moisturised, including blonde shampoo for those with lightened hair.

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Oily Hair

If your hair feels “oily,” it’s more than likely due to an oily scalp. For those with this hair type, it’s important to avoid anything that will contribute to too much sebum (oil) production, which can make the issue worse.

Shampoo and conditioner that contains moisturising or hydrating ingredients will add too much moisture to an oily scalp and roots. Instead, look for a deep-cleaning shampoo and a gentle conditioner that will make your hair clean and soft without the additional oily ingredients.

Any hair care product labelled as strengthening, volumising, or balancing is likely a good choice. Clarifying shampoos work well for people with very oily scalps, but avoid overuse which could make your scalp too dry over time. Work the shampoo deep into your scalp and rinse it well to remove excess oil, then work the conditioner into the roots only.

Dry Scalps and Dry Hair

On the other hand, if you deal with a dry, itchy, or flaky scalp or generally dry hair, you’ll want to use something that includes added moisturisers. Look for shampoo and conditioners that have hydrating and moisturising ingredients and those that are made for people with curly hair. Moisturising hair masks make an excellent occasional treatment for those with dry hair, too.

It’s also recommended that you avoid using dry shampoo since these products are designed to absorb excess oil, which could make your dry hair and scalp worse. A smoothing shampoo and smoothing type of conditioner can keep your dry locks shiny, smooth, and hydrated all day. A deep cleansing shampoo can help to remove excess oil as well.

Stay away from anything that contains sulphates, as they’re very drying. Instead, stick to products that promote moisture retention and those that are specially designed for people with dry scalps. Some styling products like gels and pomades may absorb moisture in the hair, causing frizz and dryness.

Products for Specific Hair Types

Oily and dry aren’t the only two hair types out there. Other things may also define which hair type you have, and it’s important to know which shampoo and conditioner will work best.

Fine Hair

If your hair is thin or fine, try a volumising shampoo and conditioner. These products can add volume and a bit of thickness to your locks without weighing them down.

Thick Hair

Those with thicker hair typically need a bit of extra moisture. Try hydrating or moisturising shampoos and conditioners to bring more shine and hydration to thick hair while adding a smoothing effect.

Straight Hair

Straight hair can be tricky to manage. A smoothing shampoo or products specifically made for those with straight hair have extra moisturisers and smoothing agents to combat frizz. Try a quality anti-frizz conditioner that will seal the cuticle and keep your locks looking shiny and fabulous.

Wavy Hair

Somewhere between straight and curly lies wavy hair. If this applies to you, try “balancing” shampoo and conditioner products. This option is not too hydrating, but it also won’t dry your hair out so your beautiful waves can continue to shine.

Curly Hair

People with curly hair definitely need extra moisture. Always use a moisturising shampoo and conditioner specially formulated for curly hair. These products feature ingredients that combat frizz without weighing your beautiful, bouncy curls down.

More Hair Care Tips

In some cases, your hair type may depend on various factors like the weather, your diet, or the products you use. Healthy hair should be shiny and bouncy, and that beautiful bounciness comes from the hair’s natural elasticity.

If your hair has lost its bounce, try products that contain humectants like glycerin. This ingredient draws in moisture and works well for those with a dry scalp while also promoting elasticity. Argan oil, sunflower seed oil, and mango seed oil are lightweight while also being very moisturising to help support bouncier locks and nourish damaged hair.

For those dealing with annoying dandruff, it’s likely because you have an oily, flaky scalp. This can be caused by several things including your diet, not shampooing your hair enough, or it could be due to using a shampoo that’s too gentle. 

If you have an imbalanced scalp, some products are available that can restore the balance in your scalp’s oil levels. You may want to speak to a dermatologist if you’re still experiencing dandruff regularly after switching up your hair care routine. 

Find Your Perfect Hair Care Products

Keep these tips in mind to help you choose a shampoo and conditioner that’s perfect for your hair type. While there are many different hair types out there, finding the right products will make a massive difference in how your hair looks and feels.

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect products, Salon Direct Hair & Beauty Supplies has you covered with a wide range of shampoo and hair care products. Be sure to browse our website or contact us today to find out more!