How we test clarifying shampoos:
The GLAMOUR team has collectively reviewed hundreds of clarifying shampoos from a variety of brands. When it comes to testing, we keep in mind various hair types and textures, assessing each formula on things like efficacy, value for money, ingredients and packaging.
In the rare instance where we can’t personally test something, we make sure to consult our little black book of experts, as well as consumer reviews, to bring you a truthful and informed review nonetheless. Read more about how we test here.
What kind of hair needs clarifying shampoo?
Those of an oily haired disposition, clarifying shampoo is for you – it’s perfect for removing excess oils and product build up, leaving your hair uber clean and swishy.
But even if you don’t have oily hair, you can still benefit from a clarifying shampoo. Stephen Buller reveals that a clarifying shampoo on any hair type will lead to healthy, shiny hair and help to boost volume. And we’ll take that any day of the week!
With this in mind, you can expect to notice less breakage, a brighter colour, and your scalp won’t get as oily as quickly. In short? Using a clarifying shampoo is always a win.
Does a clarifying shampoo remove colour?
If you’ve just got a fresh colour done at the salon, step away from the clarifying shampoo.
Although clarifying shampoos aren’t designed to remove colour, they are still potent cleansers that can remove your colour alongside product build-up and grime.
If the grease just won’t cease and you need to use a clarifying shampoo, you can – but bear in mind that constant use will cause your colour to fade.
What are the benefits of clarifying shampoo?
“Clarifying shampoos are usually more concentrated than regular ones and feature higher pH levels, making them more effective at cleansing the hair,” explains Katy Grimshaw.
“While both types of shampoo aim to clean your hair and scalp, clarifying shampoo is stronger and much more effective. The deep cleanse of a clarifier is specifically designed to get rid of residue, dead skin cell build-up and excess oils. They’re also great for removing product build-up before colouring hair. It’s often recommended to use a clarifying shampoo if you use a lot of hair products, suffer from an oily scalp or hair, have very hard water or if you’re a swimmer with a greenish tint from chlorine buildup. ”
How often should you use a clarifying shampoo?
That being said, it’s not exactly the best idea to deep-clean your hair with a clarifying shampoo every time you wash. Clarifying shampoos have harsher ingredients, which, if used too regularly, can dry hair and scalps out.
“This is a product that means business. So, use it wisely and have a conversation with your stylist first,” muses Stephen. “Generally, I wouldn’t recommend using a clarifying shampoo regularly – you should introduce it alongside your current hair care routine. I would recommend two-three times a month, alongside your regular shampoo. If you overuse a clarifying shampoo it can dry out the scalp and irritate it further. So go easy!”
What to look for in a clarifying shampoo:
Ana likes to pick “sulphate-free and naturally derived ingredients” as they’re “both kind to your hair and the environment,” but Jack Merrick-Thirlway says sulphates can be helpful – they’re lathering cleansing agents that remove build-up.
“If you have dry or colour-treated hair, prioritise a gentler clarifying shampoo – look for formulas with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or glycerin. If you have oily hair, you can opt for a more traditional clarifying shampoo with sulphates for a stronger clean,” he explains.
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Stephen says you should pick whichever ingredients are “suitable for you”.
Katy recommends looking for exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid, which can help to control sebum production. “Some clarifying shampoos can dry out your scalp and cause cells to produce more oil though, so watch out for that,” she adds.
Looking for more hair products? Head this way for the best shampoos for all hair types and over here for conditioners to pair with them. We’ve also got hair masks, purple shampoos, soothing shampoos for sensitive scalps, the best shampoos for curly hair and the best shampoos for greasy hair.
For more beauty and wellness content from Glamour UK Commerce Contributor Humeara Mohamed, follow her on Instagram @humeara and TikTok @humearaa.