Do You Need to Use Both Shampoo and Conditioner?

With all of the hair products vying for your attention on the shelves these days, you may be unsure which ones are necessary and which ones will actually do nothing for your hair. If you’re swamped with adverts for products all claiming to make your hair grow faster, longer, shinier and stronger, your best bet is to ignore them all and stick with the basics – shampoo and conditioner. These are the only products you really need if you have a good hair care routine.

But do you really need both shampoo and conditioner? What is the difference between the two?

Shampoo is designed to clean hair. It is a mild detergent that strips away residue from hair spray, dirt particles from the air, and oils from your scalp to leave hair clean and easier to manage. Conditioner, on the other hand, is designed to smooth the strands of hair, which can become rough from everyday damage. The way most hair conditioners work is to deposit a thin layer of silicone onto each hair, sealing the rough cuticles that can lead to hair feeling dry and getting tangled. Rough strands are harder to comb and they appear to be frizzy or dull.

So do you really need both shampoo and conditioner? Many people think that shampoo is the only important part of their hair care routine. However, since shampoo does strip away any buildup on the hair, it can actually leave your strands vulnerable to damage. Conditioner not only smooths your strands, but it also seals and protects them from any further damage. It is important to use both shampoo and conditioner every time you wash your hair.

One thing to note about conditioner is that if you use the same brand for a number of months or years, you may start getting buildup of the product on your hair. Use a clarifying shampoo every month or so to prevent this, and switch between your two favorite brands often so you are not using the same product every month. This will help you avoid buildup, which can leave your hair looking greasy and dull, even when it is clean.

Do not be confused by all the hair care products available today, and keep in mind the most important two. By keeping shampoo and conditioner as a part of your routine, you can take the best care of your hair possible. Remember that shampoo and conditioner are not the same and you will need both, no matter what the fancy adverts claim.