Wrong shampoo can cause dryness, dirty hair

SINCE PREHISTORIC times man has found ways to cleanse the body in order to prevent diseases.  This includes washing or shampooing the hair and scalp. The word “shampoo” is derived from the Hindi language and really means “to cleanse.”  Earliest history notes that various herbs and soaps were used to cleanse the hair.  Today we have various blends and brands of commercial shampoo that are very effective cleaning agents.  However the wrong shampoo for your hair can result in dryness, brittleness or dirty hair.  Yes, I said dirty hair.  Lets look at the various types of shampoo and what is to be considered in choosing the right shampoo.

Plain shampoo is transparent with colour and contains strong detergent.  It is best for use on non-chemically treated hair or oily hair. It is not recommended for use on chemically treated hair, tints, perms, relaxed hair or hair that is damaged by the sun. Cream shampoo has a milky appearance and contains special oils. This type of shampoo cleanses and also has a reconditioning effect.  It makes the hair feel softer but should not be used on hair /scalp that has not been washed for some time, since it may not truly clean hair or scalp. Non-stripping shampoo or neutralising shampoo is recommended for chemically treated hair or dry damaged hair.  It helps to keep the right PGH or acid balance of the hair and scalp.  It is mild and contains conditioners making it very effective for colour treated hair since it will not remove colour. This results in longer lasting colours.

Soapless-oil shampoo is very popular for hair that is braided. It is also ideal for use by persons who, because of circumstances are unable to wet their hair. Anti-dandruff shampoo is specially formulated to clean unsightly build up of dandruff.  There are several of these on the market.  Some contain conditioner and some do not.  You should be guided by a hair and scalp analysis before using this type of shampoo, since as per my previous articles there can be several reasons for the build-up of what appears to be dandruff on the scalp.

Medicated shampoo is formulated to treat scalp disorders other than dandruff, such as saoborrhea and psoriasis.  Some of these are prescription drugs while others are over the counter drugs.  Again, you should not try to treat yourself with these shampoos and should use them only on the advice of your dermatologist or trichologist. Remember also that excessive use can cause hair to become dry and brittle. The directions for use must be followed carefully. It is important for you to receive guidance on the shampoo that is best suited for your hair and scalp.  You should always read labels carefully before selecting. Cleansing or shampooing is a basic principle for the maintenance of healthy hair and scalp.  If you need help consult a trichologist.

Dear Germaine:
Do I need to have my hair shampooed before or after having it cut? Concerned

Dear Concerned:
This is best determined by your hairdresser.  The things he or she will consider include:
-  hair type and texture. 
- The style you are trying to achieve. 
Note that straight hair is best cut wet then styled while relaxed hair is best cut when it is dry, not that it cannot be cut wet. However, at all times hair should be clean and free of grease and chemical residue before cutting.