Shampoo or CoWash

I’m often asked the question, “How often should I wash my hair?” In response, it is not as important how often you wash your hair but what you are using when you wash your hair… A Clarifying or NonClarifying Shampoo or a CoWash. In order to decide which one you should be using, ask yourself a few questions…

  • How often do I currently wash my hair?
  • Do I condition my hair?
  • Do I use a lot of hair products on a daily basis i.e. curl creams, gels, butters, oils, holding sprays, etc.?
  • Is my hair dry/brittle?

After answering these questions, you can decide which of the following to use.

1. Many shampoos fall into the category of a Clarifying shampoo. This shampoo removes product build-ups such as the gels, creams, butters and sprays. And if you’re hitting the pool lately during these summer months…a clarifying shampoo will remove chlorine and chemicals from swimming pools that may be in your hair. (Reference)

Due to the fact that a clarifying shampoo removes so much from your hair, you will need to make sure that you condition your hair well. I would even suggest pre-pooing or a deep conditioner afterward. 

Here is a list of Clarifying Shampoos.

2. A Non-clarifying shampoo on the other hand is a shampoo that does not contain sulfates that will strip your hair and may contains oil.

Here is a list of 7 Sulfate Free Shampoos.

I personally like Argan Magic  and Creme of Nature Sulfate Free Shampoo.

3. A CoWash is a conditioner-only-washing of your hair. It cleanses the hair gently and also provides moisture.

Here is a list of 10 CoWash Conditioners under $10. 

I actually love and use Pantene Naturals Co-wash cleansing conditioner at home, which is also under $10.

So if you’ve been wearing your hair product heavy and need to really get it cleansed, go with a clarifying shampoo. Otherwise use a non-clarifying shampoo for regular wash days. If you workout a lot or feel the need to wash your hair more than once per week, use a co-wash.

Hope that you find this helpful. Be blessed lovelies!

 

5 Comments

  1. Very helpful! I’ll be looking into some of these suggested products. Thanks!

  2. I shampoo & deep condition every 2 weeks the other washes in between that 2 week period is a coWash

  3. As someone with naturally curly hair, this is GREAT information!

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      Thanks Mionna! I’m so glad you found it to be helpful!

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