Clarifying shampoo is one of those hair care essentials that doesn’t always get the spotlight, but it’s a key player in maintaining scalp health and keeping hair fresh. Think of it as a reset button for your hair—removing buildup from styling products, excess oil, and impurities that regular shampoo might leave behind.
But how do you actually use a clarifying shampoo? And how often should you reach for it? Let’s break it down.
What Is a Clarifying Shampoo?
Clarifying shampoos do more than cleanse. When used correctly, they refresh hair, restore shine, and help strands absorb treatments better. Containing stronger surfactants than everyday shampoos, they break down styling product residue, excess oil, chlorine, and mineral deposits from hard water.
They work best for those who:
• Frequently use leave-in treatments, hairspray, and other styling products
• Shower with hard water, which leaves minerals behind that dull hair
• Swim frequently and experience chlorine buildup
• Notice hair feeling greasy or heavy too soon after washing
• Struggle with scalp congestion, flakiness, or persistent oiliness
Clarifying Shampoo vs Regular Shampoo
Which one should you use? What’s the difference at all? Here are answers to some common questions:
• Can clarifying shampoo replace regular shampoo?
No, clarifying shampoo is meant to be used occasionally.
• Is clarifying shampoo more effective than regular shampoo?
Not necessarily. Clarifying shampoo is better for tackling heavy buildup, but you should use regular shampoo for everyday cleaning.
• Do you use clarifying shampoo before regular shampoo?
No. In most cases, it’s best to use it as a standalone product.
When Should You Use a Clarifying Shampoo?
As mentioned, clarifying shampoo should not replace your regular shampoo routine, but it can be essential for specific situations. Go for it in these cases:
1. When Hair Feels Heavy or Greasy
Does your hair feel coated after washing or look flat by the end of the day? This could be due to buildup from dry shampoo, leave-ins, or even hard water deposits. A deep cleanse can help remove the residue and restore your hair’s volume and movement.
2. Before Conditioning or Repair Treatments
Deep conditioning masks, keratin treatments, and protein treatments work better on clean hair. Buildup can block these treatments from penetrating properly. Using a clarifying shampoo first clears the way so your hair gets the full benefit.
3. After Swimming
Chlorine and salt water can dry your hair and cause it to be brittle. So, after swimming, get your hands on a clarifying shampoo to remove lingering chemicals before they do long-term damage.
4. If Your Scalp Feels Congested
An itchy, flaky, or irritated scalp can be caused by residue clogging hair follicles. Clarifying shampoo cleans deeply, giving your scalp a fresh start.
5. If You Have Hard Water
Minerals in hard water coat hair over time, making it look dull and feel rough. A clarifying shampoo formulated for hard water helps break down these deposits, restoring softness.
How Often Should You Use a Clarifying Shampoo?
Wondering how often you should use clarifying shampoo on curly hair? What about colour-treated hair? It all depends on your hair type, how much product you use, and your environment, but this can be a general guideline:
• Oily Hair: Once a week or every 5-7 washes.
• Fine or Thin Hair: Every 10-14 days.
• Thick or Coarse Hair: Every 2-3 weeks.
• Colour-Treated Hair: Once monthly. Use a colour-safe clarifying shampoo.
• Curly or Dry Hair: Once a month or as needed. Follow up with a deep-conditioning treatment.
How to Use a Clarifying Shampoo
Not sure how to apply clarifying shampoo? Follow these easy steps:
1. Wet Hair Completely: Lukewarm water helps open the cuticle so the shampoo can work more effectively.
2. Focus on the Scalp: Apply a small amount of shampoo directly to the scalp. Massage gently using fingertips (not nails) to break up buildup.
3. Work It Through the Lengths: Once the scalp is clean, run the lather through the rest of the hair. Avoid scrubbing aggressively—let the shampoo do its job.
4. Rinse Well: Make sure no shampoo is left behind. Residue from any product, even a clarifying shampoo, can cause buildup.
5. Follow with a Conditioner or Mask: Clarifying shampoos remove residue, but they can also strip moisture. A deep conditioner or hydrating mask restores balance, leaving hair soft and manageable.
Choose the Right Clarifying Shampoo
Try Radia Purifying Shampoo for a gentle, all-around option. It’s perfect for dry or irritated skin and works for all hair types! It rids chemical buildup and detoxifies your hair while keeping it soft and hydrated. Unlike most clarifying shampoos, Radia’s gentle formula is great for daily use, even on sensitive scalps.
Why You’ll Love It:
• Deep-cleansing & detoxifying without stripping moisture.
• It leaves hair smooth, manageable, and shiny.
• Great for curly hair, it moisturises and detangles for better definition.
• UV protection shields hair from environmental damage.
• It’s sulphate-free, paraben-free, and colour-safe.
How to Use Radia Purifying Shampoo:
• Massage it into wet hair and scalp.
• Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then rinse well.
• For the best results, follow up with the Radia Purifying Conditioner.
Where to Find the Best Clarifying Shampoo in South Africa
Whether your hair feels weighed down, looks dull, or your scalp feels congested, a good clarifying shampoo can make all the difference.
At DS Laboratories, we offer science-backed haircare solutions designed to deliver real results. Our clarifying shampoos use advanced biotechnology and Nanosome Delivery Systems to provide deep cleansing while maintaining scalp health and hydration.
Refresh your hair with our advanced hair treatments! Visit our shop today and experience the power of clinically proven hair care.