The Dirt on Clarifying (pun intended)
What is clarifying and why is it important?
Clarifying shampoos work a little harder than regular shampoos *muscle emoji* to remove built up oils or product from the scalp and hair shaft. Sometimes products can lay atop our hair creating a cast and preventing water from moisturizing our ends. How often you clarify depends on how often you wash and what products you incorporate in your routine.
We’ve mentioned clarifying as part of a healthy hair regimen so often that we figured it’s time to list some of our favorite methods for detoxing the hair and scalp. Always consult your stylist before starting a new routine. Several of our clarifying shampoos are available in travel sizes for infrequent washers, so make sure to check our online shop. Alternatively, many are also available in liters for those with oil scalps. If you have any questions about clarifying shampoos or how often you should be clarifying we’re always available by email at info@cropsbnb.com and consultations with a stylist, virtual or in person, are always free.
Our clarifying favs-
RPM CBD Thickening Shampoo- Thickening Shampoo by RPM is a great option for anyone who has a sensitive scalp or struggles with psoriasis. Most thickening shampoos are clarifying by nature because it’s important to exfoliate any build up out of the hair follicle in order for thickening agents to deliver their respective technology. RPM’s thickening shampoo contains 500mg of CBD oil to calm irritated scalps while it helps to strip any build up from the hair and scalp.
Scent- Peppermint and Eucalyptus essential oils
Bonus Tip- RPM’s thickening shampoo can be paired with the Thickening Conditioner and spray to help grow new hair holistically.
Kevin Murphy Plumping Wash- Plumping wash is also part of a thickening system that uses the same technology as eyelash growth serums. Ginger root and nettle help to densify the hair shaft and stimulate the scalp while removing toxic impurities from the follicle.
Scent- Floral
Bonus Tip- Plumping Rinse, Body Mass, Thick Again, Killer Waves, and Angel Masque all contain the same thickening technology to help regenerate new growth.
Kevin Murphy Stimulate Me Wash- Stimulate Me Wash is a clarifying shampoo that is safe to use daily. It’s great for anyone who needs an extra scrub due to excess sweating or frequent hat-wearing.
Scent- Bergamot and Tea Tree oil
Bonus Tip- Massage this shampoo in to help stimulate blood circulation on the scalp
Kevin Murphy Maxi Wash- Maxi is one of our most recommended clarifying shampoos. Maxi Wash uses salicylic acid- much like most face washes. Witch Hazel provides antiseptic properties that detoxify the hair and scalp. It also tightens the cuticle, adds radiance and restores balance so that hair looks and feels soothed and softened.
Scent- Tea Tree, Thyme, Rosemary, and Grapefruit essential oils
Bonus Tip- Leave Maxi Wash on as a masque for up to 10 minutes for a deeper detox. Make sure to follow up with a moisturizing shampoo.
Eleven Deep Clean- Deep Clean is another clarifying shampoo safe for daily use and is by far the most moisturizing of all of our clarifiers. Deep Clean is great for anyone naturally oily because it will balance the pH of the scalp and it’s nearly impossible to over-strip with this shampoo.
Scent- Lavender and Orange Peel
Bonus Tip- Great for curly textures that are prone to thirst
Bentonite clay- Bentonite clay is a natural, fine textured clay with detoxifying properties that forms from volcanic ash. Bentonite clay can be mixed with warm water and applied to the hair and skin as a maque to absorb dirt and oil. It can be great for removing build up from the scalp but we don’t recommend pulling it through the ends. This makes it a great DIY clarifier for athletes, or anyone prone to excess sweat, but not great for any product-junkies.
Scent- Very earthy
Bonus Tip- You can add a cup to your bubble bath to detox your body. Make sure to follow up with a moisturizing shampoo.
Apple Cider Vinegar- The watery viscosity of Apple Cider Vinegar makes it great for detoxing locks, braids, or any other protective styles. It’s important to dilute Apple Cider Vinegar 10:1 with distilled water before applying it to the hair and scalp. The acidity of the Vinegar helps dissolves excess oil and dead skin from roots to ends. Make sure to always use organic Apple Cider Vinegar with the mother.
Scent- Strong, lol
Bonus Tip- Make sure to follow up with a moisturizing shampoo that contains fragrance or you risk smelling like salad dressing until your next cleanse.