As winter turns to spring, I’ve noticed how a good clarifying shampoo becomes essential for refreshing my hair after months of buildup from styling products and environmental grime. I’ve tested dozens, and honestly, a quality one makes a real difference—making hair feel lighter, looking shinier, and removing stubborn residues.
From my experience, the key is a formula that deeply cleans without stripping moisture. That’s where the Redken Detox Clarifying Shampoo 8.5oz shines—it’s designed for all hair types, easily removes hard water minerals, pollution, and styling residues, and leaves hair invigorated. Plus, it strengthens the cuticle with ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids and fruit acids. Compared to others, it offers a professional, pH-balanced clean that truly refreshes without over-drying, making it my top pick for regular use before conditioning. Trust me, this one’s a game changer!
Top Recommendation: Redken Detox Clarifying Shampoo 8.5oz
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because it combines deep cleansing with strengthening ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids and fruit acids, which effectively remove pollution, hard water minerals, and product buildup without over-drying. Unlike alternatives, it’s suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair, and offers a professional-grade, pH-balanced formula that leaves hair shiny and refreshed—making it the best overall choice.
Best shampoo cleansing hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair – Best cleansing shampoo for oily hair
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 10.14 fl oz – Best cleansing shampoo for coloured hair
- Redken Detox Clarifying Shampoo 8.5oz – Best cleansing shampoo for oily hair
- Cantu Sulfate-Free Shea Butter Cleansing Shampoo 13.5 oz – Best cleansing shampoo for natural hair
- Neutrogena Exfoliating Clarify & Shine Shampoo 12oz – Best cleansing shampoo for fine hair
Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo for Oily & Color-Treated Hair
- ✓ Deep cleansing power
- ✓ Suitable for color-treated hair
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and full
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Not ideal for daily use
| Main Function | Clarifies hair by removing buildup, excess oils, silicones, and mineral deposits |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including color-treated hair |
| Key Ingredients/Features | Super sudsing, purifying, volumizing, shine enhancing, mineral detoxifying |
| Application Method | Apply a dime to quarter-sized amount to wet hair, massage into scalp, rinse thoroughly, repeat if necessary |
| Free From | Parabens, phthalates, silicones; cruelty-free and vegan |
| Size | 11.89 fl oz (351 ml) |
As soon as I popped open the bottle of Kristin Ess Clarifying Shampoo, I was greeted by a fresh, slightly citrusy scent and a clear, almost gel-like liquid that felt surprisingly lightweight in my hand. The texture is super sudsy, which instantly makes you feel like you’re getting a deep clean.
You only need a small amount—about a quarter-sized dollop for my medium-length hair—and it lathers up quickly once you massage it into your scalp.
Applying it feels like a satisfying scalp massage, and the rich foam really works into the roots. I noticed how effectively it removed buildup from styling products and excess oils without stripping my hair entirely.
It rinses out smoothly, leaving behind a clean feeling without that tight, squeaky sensation that some clarifying shampoos give. After rinsing, my hair looked visibly brighter, and I could tell it was free of residue.
What I really appreciate is how versatile this shampoo is. It works well on my color-treated hair, and I don’t worry about it dulling my tone.
I used it once a week, and it kept my hair feeling fresh and full of volume, especially on days when my hair felt weighed down or oily. Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free, vegan, and free from parabens, phthalates, silicones, and sulfates makes it a guilt-free treat for my hair care routine.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a deep clean in a bottle, perfect for when your hair needs a reset. It’s not overly drying, and it makes my hair feel light, shiny, and refreshed.
Just a heads-up—if you have very dry or sensitive scalp, you might want to follow up with a nourishing conditioner.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 10.14 fl oz
- ✓ Deep cleans effectively
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and full
- ✓ Easy to use and lathers well
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Not for daily use
| Product Volume | 10.14 fl oz (300 ml) |
| Primary Function | Clarifying and deep cleansing |
| Suitable For | Removing buildup and dulling residues |
| Application Frequency | Recommended before deep conditioning treatments |
| Key Benefits | Removes buildup, leaves hair shiny and full of body |
| Ideal Hair Type | All hair types needing deep cleansing |
As I squeezed out the Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two for the first time, I was surprised by how thick and rich the lather was—more than I expected from a clarifying shampoo. It’s like a deep, foamy cloud that instantly signals a serious cleanse.
What really caught me off guard was how squeaky clean my hair felt after just one wash. Usually, clarifying shampoos leave my hair feeling stripped and brittle, but this one managed to remove buildup without sacrificing softness.
The scent is clean and fresh—nothing overpowering—making the whole experience feel refreshing rather than harsh. I applied it before a deep conditioning treatment, and it really made my conditioner work better, penetrating more deeply into my hair.
Using it is simple: just a small amount goes a long way. It lathers quickly, so you don’t need to use much each time.
Plus, the 10.14 oz bottle feels sturdy and easy to hold, even with wet hands.
It’s perfect for those days when your hair feels greasy or weighed down from styling products. I noticed my hair bounced back with more volume and shine after using it, which is a huge plus.
That said, because it’s so powerful, I wouldn’t use it every wash. Overuse might strip too much moisture, so I reserve it for every couple of weeks or when I need a serious refresh.
Overall, this shampoo is a game-changer if you need a deep clean and a boost of shine. Just be mindful of how often you use it to keep your hair balanced and healthy.
Redken Detox Clarifying Shampoo 8.5oz
- ✓ Deeply cleanses buildup
- ✓ Strengthens and adds shine
- ✓ Suitable for all hair types
- ✕ Can be drying if used too often
- ✕ Slightly strong scent
| Product Volume | 8.5 oz (250 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types and textures, including color-treated and non-color-treated hair |
| Key Ingredients | Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), fruit acid, cleansing complex |
| Purpose and Function | Removes product buildup, hard water minerals, excess oil, pollution residue, and hard water minerals; purifies and refreshes hair |
| Additional Benefits | Strengthens hair cuticle, adds shine, deeply cleanses oily and greasy hair, prepares hair for salon services |
I didn’t expect this clarifying shampoo to turn my normally shiny hair into what felt like freshly washed cotton candy—soft, squeaky clean, but surprisingly lightweight. The first time I used it, I was curious how a product with fruit acids and a cleansing complex could handle stubborn product buildup without stripping my color-treated hair.
Right out of the bottle, the scent is fresh and mildly fruity, which makes the whole washing experience pleasant. As I massaged it in, I noticed it immediately cut through grease and grime, even after a few days of heavy styling product use.
It lathers quickly and rinses clean, leaving zero residue behind.
What stood out most was how it strengthened my hair cuticles. After rinsing, my strands felt noticeably more purified and shiny, almost like I had just stepped out of a salon.
I also appreciated how it tackled mineral buildup from hard water—my hair felt lighter and looked brighter. It prepares my hair perfectly for conditioning, making my usual treatments more effective.
Although it’s a deep-cleaning formula, I didn’t find it overly drying, which is often a concern with clarifying shampoos. It’s versatile enough for both color-treated and natural hair.
Plus, I love that it pairs well with any conditioner, giving me flexibility depending on my mood or needs.
If you’re battling pollution residue, excess oil, or product buildup, this could be your go-to. Just be ready for a super thorough cleanse that leaves your hair feeling fresh but not stripped.
It’s a great step before treatments or color refreshes, and it really delivers on that deep clean promise.
Cantu Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo Shea Butter for
- ✓ Gentle yet effective cleanse
- ✓ Nourishes with Shea Butter
- ✓ Free from harsh chemicals
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May not foam much
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, phthalate-free, alcohol-free, mineral oil-free, paraffin-free, propylene-free |
| Suitable Hair Types | Type 2 waves, Type 3 curls, Type 4 coils |
| Key Ingredients | Shea Butter |
| Purpose | Cleanses heavy buildup, refreshes scalp, nourishes hair, reduces breakage |
| Product Size | Not specified (typically available in 12 fl oz or similar sizes) |
| Cruelty-Free Certification | Yes |
Many people assume sulfate-free shampoos don’t clean as effectively or leave hair feeling heavy and greasy. After using this Cantu Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo, I can confidently say that’s a misconception.
It actually does a great job of removing buildup without stripping your scalp or hair of moisture.
The first thing I noticed was how gentle yet efficient the formula is. It lathers nicely, despite being sulfate-free, which can sometimes be disappointing.
My waves and curls felt really refreshed after just one wash, not weighed down or sticky. The rich Shea Butter makes a real difference—my hair felt softer and more nourished, even after multiple uses.
What stood out is how it reduces breakage. I’ve had issues with dryness and breakage, especially on my curlier hair, and this shampoo helped strengthen my strands over time.
Plus, it’s free from harsh ingredients like parabens, silicones, and sulfates, so I felt good about using it regularly.
Applying it was a breeze. The creamy texture spreads easily through damp hair.
It rinses clean, leaving no residue or film. For anyone with textured hair battling buildup and dryness, this shampoo offers a refreshing cleanse without sacrificing moisture.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for cleansing and nourishing textured hair types. It balances clean feeling with softness, which is exactly what I look for in a good shampoo.
Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free is a bonus I appreciate.
Neutrogena Exfoliating Clarify & Shine Shampoo 12oz
- ✓ Gentle yet effective cleansing
- ✓ Brightens and adds shine
- ✓ Suitable for daily use
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May require extra conditioner
| Formulation Type | Cream-based, pH-balanced, sulfate-free |
| Key Ingredients | Natural pink grapefruit extract, bergamot, and floral fragrances |
| Suitable Hair Types | Oily, color-treated, all hair types |
| Usage Frequency | Safe for daily use |
| pH Level | Balanced to maintain scalp’s natural barrier |
| Additional Benefits | Removes residue and excess oil, adds shine, leaves hair soft and manageable |
The moment I opened the Neutrogena Exfoliating Clarify & Shine Shampoo, I was greeted with a fresh, citrusy aroma that instantly lifted my mood. The pink grapefruit extract gives the shampoo a vibrant, inviting hue, and the creamy texture feels surprisingly gentle between my fingers.
It’s lightweight but rich enough to feel like it’s doing something substantial. As I massaged it into my scalp, I appreciated how smoothly it spread without any harsh foaming — no SLS or SLES here.
Despite the deep-cleansing promise, it didn’t feel stripping or drying, which is a huge plus for my color-treated hair.
Rinsing it out was effortless, leaving my hair feeling squeaky clean but not overly tight. I noticed a subtle shine emerging right away, and the fresh citrus scent lingered throughout the day.
It’s clear this formula is designed to remove excess oil and buildup without sacrificing moisture.
After a few uses, my scalp felt noticeably less greasy, and my hair looked brighter and more vibrant. I love that it’s pH-balanced and safe for daily use, especially since I need a reliable clarifier without the harsh chemicals.
Plus, it’s gentle enough for all hair types, including my color-treated strands, which often get stripped with stronger shampoos.
Overall, this shampoo balances deep cleaning with caring ingredients. It’s perfect if you want that fresh, just-washed feeling without the dryness or dullness.
It’s become a staple in my routine for those hectic days when my hair needs a serious refresh.
What is a Cleansing Shampoo and How Does It Work?
Cleansing shampoo is a specialized type of shampoo designed to remove build-up from hair products, oils, and impurities. It often has fewer conditioning agents, providing a deep clean rather than hydration.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, cleansing shampoos are formulated to clear the hair and scalp of residue and excess sebum. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with oily hair or those who frequently use styling products.
Cleansing shampoos work by using stronger detergents than regular shampoos. These detergents help to break down oils and product residues, leading to cleaner hair and scalp. Users often apply these shampoos once every few weeks to avoid overdrying their hair.
The American Hair Loss Association recommends cleansing shampoos for those experiencing product build-up, as well as those with fine or oily hair. They assert that a clean scalp promotes healthier hair growth.
Cleansing needs arise from factors such as product usage, environmental pollution, and sebum production. Frequent use of styling products or treatments can also contribute to buildup.
Statistics from the Professional Beauty Association indicate that 62% of consumers use some form of hair styling product, contributing to increased demand for cleansing shampoos.
Cleansing shampoos can help restore scalp health, leading to improved hair vitality and reduced scalp issues.
They impact health by mitigating scalp conditions like dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Economically, they may drive product sales in the beauty industry.
Examples of impacts include improved hair growth and reduced hair loss among users who regularly employ cleansing shampoos.
Experts recommend using cleansing shampoos in moderation to ensure balance in hair moisture levels and scalp health.
Strategies for maintaining hair health include selecting sulfate-free formulas, avoiding excessive heat styling, and practicing regular scalp massages.
What Benefits Can You Expect from Using a Clarifying Shampoo?
Using a clarifying shampoo offers several benefits for hair health and cleanliness.
- Removes product buildup
- Eliminates excess oils
- Enhances hair color
- Improves scalp health
- Prepares hair for treatments
- Increases hair volume
- Allows for better moisture absorption
While many people appreciate the benefits of clarifying shampoos, some individuals express concerns about their frequent use. Here’s an in-depth look at the main benefits of using a clarifying shampoo.
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Removing Product Buildup: Clarifying shampoos excel at removing product buildup. Regular hair products like gels, sprays, and creams can accumulate over time. This buildup can weigh hair down or alter its appearance. When using a clarifying shampoo, users often notice their hair feels lighter, shinier, and more vibrant.
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Eliminating Excess Oils: Clarifying shampoos are typically formulated to cut through grease. They effectively remove excess oils that can accumulate on the scalp and hair. Individuals with oily scalps benefit significantly from using these shampoos. A study by the American Academy of Dermatology found that proper cleansing is vital for maintaining healthy scalp conditions.
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Enhancing Hair Color: For colored hair, clarifying shampoos can help maintain vibrancy. These shampoos remove impurities that might dull color-treated hair. However, users should exercise caution; overuse can strip color. According to a survey by Hair Colorist Association, many stylists recommend using clarifying shampoos before color treatments for the best results.
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Improving Scalp Health: Clarifying shampoos can contribute to better scalp health by removing dead skin cells and excess product. A clean scalp prevents issues like dandruff and itchiness. The Journal of Dermatological Treatment emphasizes that a healthy scalp is essential for hair growth.
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Preparing Hair for Treatments: Clarifying shampoos prepare hair for treatments like deep conditioners or hair masks. They cleanse the hair of residues, enhancing the effectiveness of subsequent treatments. Many salon professionals recommend clarifying shampoo as the first step before applying any conditioning treatment.
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Increasing Hair Volume: Many users find that using clarifying shampoo can boost hair volume. Removing buildup allows hair to appear fuller and bouncier. A survey conducted by hair product manufacturers revealed that 60% of users experienced increased volume after clarifying treatments.
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Allowing for Better Moisture Absorption: Clarifying shampoos can improve moisture absorption. When hair is free from build-up, it can more effectively absorb conditioners and moisture-rich products. This leads to improved overall health and manageability of hair. Studies indicate that products function better on clean hair due to reduced barriers to penetration.
While clarifying shampoos provide various advantages, individuals with dry or textured hair types should use them sparingly. Overuse may lead to dryness or damage since these shampoos remove natural oils. Therefore, it is essential to balance their use with moisturizing products to maintain hair health.
How Can You Identify Effective Ingredients in Cleansing Shampoos?
To identify effective ingredients in cleansing shampoos, one should look for components that clean the hair without stripping its natural oils, promote scalp health, and are free from harsh chemicals.
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Surfactants: Surfactants are the primary cleaning agents in shampoos. They lower the surface tension of water, allowing it to mix with oil and dirt. Common surfactants include sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). A study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Soter et al., 2012) notes that while SLS is effective for cleaning, it can irritate some scalps. Thus, gentler surfactants like cocamidopropyl betaine are often recommended.
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Conditioning agents: These agents help maintain hair moisture and manageability. Ingredients like glycerin and dimethicone provide hydration and reduce frizz. Research in the Journal of Dermatology (McKenzie, 2015) demonstrates that conditioning agents can enhance hair shine and softness by forming a protective layer.
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Natural extracts: Ingredients such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile provide additional benefits. Aloe vera has soothing properties that can alleviate scalp irritation, while tea tree oil possesses antimicrobial properties that help maintain scalp health. A review in the International Journal of Trichology (Shah et al., 2017) highlights the efficacy of natural extracts in promoting scalp health.
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pH balance: Effective shampoos usually have a pH of around 4.5 to 5.5. This pH range helps maintain the hair’s natural acidity, preventing cuticle damage. A study from the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Cohen et al., 2020) suggests that maintaining this pH helps in reducing frizz and enhancing shine.
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Free from sulfates and parabens: Many effective cleansing shampoos do not contain sulfates or parabens. Sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils, while parabens are used as preservatives but may cause allergic reactions. A report from the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (Patel et al., 2018) emphasizes the importance of avoiding these ingredients for sensitive scalps.
By focusing on these ingredients and attributes, consumers can select cleansing shampoos that effectively cleanse while promoting overall hair and scalp health.
Which Shampoo Variants are Best for Different Hair Types?
The best shampoo variants for different hair types include those specifically designed for oily, dry, colored, and curly hair.
- Oily Hair Shampoo
- Dry Hair Shampoo
- Color-Treated Hair Shampoo
- Curly Hair Shampoo
- Fine Hair Shampoo
- Dandruff Shampoo
Oily Hair Shampoo: Oily hair shampoo is formulated to control excess sebum on the scalp. These shampoos often contain ingredients like tea tree oil or salicylic acid, which help in reducing oiliness. For instance, a study by the American Academy of Dermatology highlights that salicylic acid can aid in unclogging hair follicles.
Dry Hair Shampoo: Dry hair shampoo nourishes and moisturizes the hair to combat dryness. Ingredients like argan oil and shea butter are common. According to research published in the International Journal of Trichology, moisturizing shampoos can significantly improve hair texture and manageability for those with dry hair.
Color-Treated Hair Shampoo: Color-treated hair shampoo is designed to protect hair color. These shampoos often contain sulfate-free formulas, which prevent color fading. The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology emphasizes that sulfate-free shampoos can preserve color vibrancy for a longer duration.
Curly Hair Shampoo: Curly hair shampoo is crafted to enhance and define curls while reducing frizz. Ingredients like coconut oil and glycerin are effective in maintaining hydration. A study by the Journal of Experimental Botany found that glycerin acts as a powerful humectant, drawing moisture to the hair.
Fine Hair Shampoo: Fine hair shampoo provides volume and structure for thin hair. Ingredients like panthenol and proteins are often included to fortify strands. Research in the Journal of Cosmetic Science indicates that protein-enriched shampoos can enhance the thickness of fine hair.
Dandruff Shampoo: Dandruff shampoo targets flaking and itchiness of the scalp. Common active ingredients include zinc pyrithione and ketoconazole, which have antifungal properties. The American Journal of Clinical Dermatology reports that using an antifungal shampoo can reduce symptoms of dandruff effectively.
How Often Should You Use a Cleansing or Detox Shampoo?
You should use a cleansing or detox shampoo once every one to two weeks. This frequency helps remove buildup without over-drying or damaging your hair. If you use many styling products or have oily hair, you may benefit from using it more often, up to once a week. However, if your hair is dry or color-treated, use it less frequently, possibly every three weeks. Adjust the usage based on your hair type and the level of product buildup you experience. Always follow a detox shampoo with a conditional treatment to maintain moisture balance.
What Do User Reviews Say About the Best Cleansing Shampoos?
User reviews indicate that the best cleansing shampoos effectively remove buildup and impurities, often leaving hair refreshing and manageable.
- Effectiveness
- Ingredients
- Scent
- Lather
- Price
- Hair Type Suitability
- Environmental Impact
- Brand Reputation
User reviews reveal various perspectives on cleansing shampoos. These points reflect broad consumer experiences and highlight different priorities for users.
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Effectiveness: User reviews frequently highlight the ability of the shampoo to remove product buildup. Many customers report that effective cleansing shampoos make their hair feel lighter and more vibrant.
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Ingredients: Ingredients matter significantly to consumers. Users often prefer shampoos that are sulfate-free or contain natural ingredients. Some reviews express concern over artificial additives and their potential to irritate the scalp.
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Scent: The aroma of cleansing shampoos garners mixed reactions. While some users appreciate pleasant fragrances, others find synthetic scents overwhelming or unappealing.
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Lather: Users mention the lathering ability of shampoos. Many appreciate a rich lather, viewing it as a sign of effective cleansing. Conversely, some prefer low-lather formulas that are less drying.
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Price: The cost of cleansing shampoos influences purchasing decisions. Some users advocate for high-end brands, believing they offer superior results. Others argue that budget-friendly options can be equally effective.
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Hair Type Suitability: Different hair types influence user choices. Reviews indicate that certain shampoos work best for fine hair, while others cater to thicker or coarser textures.
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Environmental Impact: Increasingly, users consider the environmental impact of products. Shampoos with sustainable packaging and eco-friendly formulations receive positive feedback.
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Brand Reputation: Many consumer reviews mention brand reputation. Users often prefer brands known for quality and customer satisfaction. A solid brand history can enhance trust in cleansing products.
In summary, user reviews of cleansing shampoos focus on effectiveness, ingredients, scent, lather, price, hair type suitability, environmental impact, and brand reputation, presenting a diverse mix of consumer experiences and priorities.
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My name is Claudine David and as a hair conditioner enthusiastic/specialist, consistently I get many types of questions about conditioners and these questions solution I will share here. Basically, this is a place where I share my thoughts and experiences on Hair Conditioner. This website (https://conditionerhacks.com) is an outlet of my deep passion for Conditioner.
Specifically I specialize in hair conditioners. I have been working in the field of hair care for over 6 years. Basically my passion for hair care started when I was a young girl. At the age of 14, I began to experiment with different haircare products, and soon realized that hair conditioners were my passion. I’m always looking for the best and most innovative products. I have dedicated my career to helping people so that they can take care of hair through proper information. Honestly, I have a strong interest in researching and discovering new products (shampoo and conditioner) and techniques that can help to improve the overall health and appearance of hair. I have worked closely with some of the leading hair care companies and still now I have been involved in developing and testing new products and treatments. I have also worked with a number of salons and retail stores. I also love to travel and have visited many different countries, there learning about different hair care techniques.