What To Look For
When shopping for a shampoo, take into consideration the type and texture of hair. A shampoo for fine to medium hair is going to be dramatically different than a shampoo for coarse or curly hair. You may also have a special condition, such as a sensitive, flaky or oily scalp, that you need your shampoo to help correct. Look for shampoos formulated for your hair type, texture and special requirements.
Common Pitfalls
Avoid shampoos that claim to repair, restructure or nourish damaged hair. Hair is not a living structure and therefore cannot be repaired. A shampoo cannot repair split ends or reverse damage from styling or dying. Another common pitfall is the belief that more expensive products work better than inexpensive products. They contain many of the same ingredients and the truth is, there are both good and bad products as all price points. So don't expect more just by paying more.
Where To Buy
The best lower price point shampoo for fine to medium hair is Garnier Fructis Fortifying Daily Care. This product moisturizes, cleanses and protects color-treated hair. Garnier Fructis Fortifying Daily Care can be purchased at most grocery stores and drug stores, or online.
The best higher price point shampoo for fine to medium hair is Wen Sweet Almond Mint. Wen is a foamless shampoo that contains no foaming agents or detergents, making it a more gentle and moisturizing shampoo. It is also safe to use on color-treated hair. Wen Sweet Almond Mint can be purchased only online.
The best lower price point shampoo for coarse or curly hair is Herbal Essences Hydralicious. This product is a conditioning shampoo that helps moisturize dry, damaged or coarse hair. Herbal Essences Hydralicious can be purchased at most grocery stores and drug stores or online.
The best higher price point shampoo for coarse or curly hair is Wen Fig. This product contains natural ingredients that are rich and dense to deliver ultimate moisture. Wen Fig can be purchased online.
The best lower point anti-dandruff shampoo is Nizoral. Nizoral contains ketoconazole, a powerful antifungal ingredient that was once available only by prescription. Results may be seen in as little as two uses. Nizoral can be purchased in most grocery stores and drug stores or online.
The best higher price point anti-dandruff shampoo is Nioxin Scalp Recovery shampoo. This product contains pyrithione zinc, which is a color-safe, sulfate-free skin cleanser that is less drying on the hair. Nioxin can be purchased at salons or online.
Cost
Garnier Fructis Fortifying Daily Care, 13 oz., ranges from $4.99 to $9.69.
Wen Sweet Almond Mint, 16 oz., ranges from $30.00 to $45.94.
Herbal Essences Hydralicious, 10 oz., ranges from $2.96 to $5.99.
Wen Fig, 16 oz., ranges from $34.95 to $47.81.
Nizoral, 7oz., ranges from $8.99 to $12.31.
Nioxin Scalp Recovery, 7oz., ranges from $17.38 to $19.99.
Insider Tips
Shop online for better prices and options to buy in bulk. The most effective shampoos for any hair type are products in a category called "no-poo shampoos". These products do not foam, and contain more gentle and nourishing ingredients. For dry hair, do not wash every day. Every other day will give your scalp a chance to re-moisturize. Try to avoid shampoos with sulfates, which is a harsh detergent ingredient.
Member Comments