When it comes to coloring your hair, there are a lot of steps to consider to ensure you get the best results. One of the most debated questions is whether or not to use a clarifying shampoo before coloring your hair.
Some people swear by it, while others avoid it altogether. So, what’s the verdict? Is clarifying shampoo a friend or foe when it comes to coloring your hair?
The truth is, it depends on a few factors. The type of hair you have, the type of color you’re using, and the condition of your hair all play a role in whether clarifying shampoo is a good choice before coloring.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and risks of using clarifying shampoo, and help you make an informed decision on whether or not it’s right for you.
Pre-Coloring Rituals: What Should You Do?
Before coloring your hair, it’s important to prep your hair properly to ensure the color goes on smoothly and lasts as long as possible. There are a few steps you should take before coloring your hair, including:
- Wash your hair at least 24 hours before coloring to remove any product buildup or oils that could interfere with the color.
- Skip any heavy conditioning treatments before coloring, as this can create a barrier between your hair and the color.
- Consider using a protein treatment or bonding treatment to strengthen your hair before coloring.
- Avoid using any heat styling tools or products that could cause damage to your hair before coloring.
Now that you know the basics of pre-coloring rituals, let’s dive into the world of clarifying shampoo.
What Is Clarifying Shampoo?
Clarifying shampoo is a special type of shampoo designed to remove buildup and residue from your hair. This can include product buildup, excess oils, and hard water minerals. Clarifying shampoo is typically used once a week or once a month to deep clean the hair and scalp.
How Does Clarifying Shampoo Work?
Clarifying shampoo works by using a high concentration of surfactants to remove buildup and residue from the hair. These surfactants are stronger than those found in regular shampoo, which is why clarifying shampoo is typically only used once in a while. Some clarifying shampoos also contain acids, such as citric acid, to help remove hard water minerals and other buildup.
Benefits of Using Clarifying Shampoo
There are several benefits to using clarifying shampoo before coloring your hair, including:
- Removing buildup: Clarifying shampoo can help remove any buildup or residue from your hair, which can make it easier for the color to penetrate evenly.
- Reducing brassiness: If you’re going for a cool-toned color, clarifying shampoo can help reduce any brassy tones in your hair.
- Improving color longevity: By removing buildup and residue, clarifying shampoo can help your color last longer and stay vibrant.
Risks of Using Clarifying Shampoo
While there are benefits to using clarifying shampoo, there are also some risks to consider, including:
- Stripping natural oils: Clarifying shampoo can be harsh on the hair, and can strip away natural oils that are important for maintaining healthy hair.
- Drying out the hair: If you have dry or damaged hair, clarifying shampoo can make it even drier and more brittle.
- Fading color: If you use a clarifying shampoo too soon after coloring your hair, it can cause the color to fade faster.
Clarifying Shampoo or Regular Shampoo: Which One Is Better?
When it comes to choosing between clarifying shampoo and regular shampoo before coloring your hair, it really depends on your hair type, the color you’re using, and the condition of your hair. If you have a lot of buildup or residue in your hair, or if you’re using a cool-toned color, clarifying shampoo may be a good choice. If your hair is already dry or damaged, or if you’re using a warm-toned color, regular shampoo may be a better option.
Final Verdict: To Clarify or Not to Clarify?
So, should you use clarifying shampoo before coloring your hair? The answer is, it depends. If you have a lot of buildup or residue in your hair, or if you’re using a cool-toned color, clarifying shampoo may be a good choice to help improve color penetration and reduce brassiness. However, if your hair is already dry or damaged, or if you’re using a warm-toned color, you may want to stick with regular shampoo to avoid further damage or fading of the color. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your hair and your coloring goals.
