Everything you need to know about Shampoos and Conditioners

One walk down the hair care aisle of our SoyMacho.com store and you'll literally see hundreds of different shampoos , conditioners , and styling products for men. The professional side of the market is saturated. What shampoo and conditioner do you choose? In this guide to men's shampoo and conditioner, we'll explain the basics and try to help you choose the right product.

shampoo

There are several common types of shampoo. Since most men have hair less than three inches long, most "normal" shampoos work for the average man. When choosing a shampoo, select one that specifically targets the issues you're having with your scalp - dryness, oiliness, etc.

Normal hair shampoos will not strip the natural oils from the hair and scalp as they are typically mild. This type of shampoo works well for about nine out of ten guys.

Shampoos for oily hair contain cleansers designed to remove as much oil as possible. These are good for men with oily scalps, but can cause excessive dryness in men with normal scalps.

Dry hair shampoos (often called moisturizing shampoos) are specifically formulated to add moisture to the hair and scalp. Unless you have very dry hair, these types of shampoos are not necessary and can often weigh down normal hair.

Thickening shampoos (or volumizing shampoos) often contain glycerin, which helps hair retain water and plumps up the hair shaft by lifting the cuticle. The hair cuticle is a tough, tile-like layer that looks like fish scales under magnification. Under normal circumstances, these tiles lie flat. Many thickening shampoos cause the cuticle to open, thus making the hair puffy. In this state, the hair is more vulnerable, so follow-up with a good conditioner is recommended.

Dandruff shampoos are formulated to help prevent the itching and flaking associated with dandruff. Before using a dandruff shampoo, make sure you really do have dandruff. Dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis) causes thick flakes and irritated scalp. If you're seeing small, fine white flakes, the problem is likely dry scalp which can be corrected with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Start by using a dandruff shampoo every other day (alternating with a good moisturizing shampoo) as dandruff shampoos can often cause excessive dryness.

Clarifying shampoos have a higher acid content and are formulated to remove excessive build-up from styling products on the hair. Swimmers can also use a clarifying shampoo to remove chemicals left on the hair from the pool water. Avoid using this type of shampoo more than once a month, as the high acid content can cause dryness and damage.

Most shampoos can be used every day. In the shower, simply apply a small amount to the palm of your hand and rub your hands together to distribute the product. Gently massage the shampoo into the hair and scalp with your fingers and rinse well with lukewarm water.

conditioners

Conditioners are designed to add moisture to the hair and scalp, soften hair, increase shine and prevent tangles. Commonly formulated with silicone or fatty alcohols, modern conditioners accomplish these tasks without feeling greasy or heavy. Think of hair conditioner as fabric softener for your hair.

Moisturizing conditioners contain ingredients that help hair retain moisture and should be used by those with dry, curly, or coarse hair. If your hair is extremely dry, use a conditioner that contains essential fatty acids. These EFA-based conditioners contain sebum-like oil, which is naturally produced by the scalp.

Thickening conditioners (or volumizing conditioners) coat hair with a layer of protein that makes hair appear thicker. This type of conditioner can help fill in the gaps left in the cuticle if it is damaged and add softness and shine to the hair. Thickening conditioners are suitable for those with fine, soft or damaged hair.

Conditioners, just like a facial moisturizer, nourish your hair.

These types of leave-in conditioners can also help add a bit of manageability to hair, as well as protect it from the sun (look for one with a sunscreen). Many men believe that their hair behaves better the day after a shampoo and a conditioner can give the same manageability while allowing you to shampoo every day.

Most conditioners can be used every day. For maximum benefit, leave the conditioner in your hair for two minutes (this is a good time to shave your face) and be sure to rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

I hope that these tips have worked for you, you know that we are here to serve you and do not hesitate to leave your comments.

A pleasure

Frederick G.