I don't have to shampoo my hair for 2 weeks sometimes (just usually a rinse and some conditioner, daily)because my scalp just doesn't produce very much oil... When my hair absolutely needs a wash, it sucks because the shampoos that I have used strip ALL the oil out my hair. This leaves it dry and lifeless for like 4 days until it builds up again. I have tried a few different shampoos, most recently Aussie Moist. It all seems to have the same result... Is there anything out there that is a little milder and wont strip so much out of my hair?
Thanks,
TDKR
Paul Mitchell's Shampoo 1, make it together with The Rinse, also from Paul Mitchell, they work wonders together
I like the "Redken Cat" shampoo and conditioner. They leave my hair feeling so silky and smooth! I usually double condition.
Oh- try to use the same brand of conditioner as the shampoo you use. For example- If you use Paul Mitchell Shampoo- try to use Paul Mitchell conditioner with it. Products within a brand name are designed to work together and compliment each other without causing an adverse chemical reaction.
If you start mixing brands- for instance- Pantene pro-V shampoo with Aussie conditioner- you run the risk of setting up a mild chemical reaction between the two products that could cause anything from a scalp that is dry and itchy, to hair that is more brittle and weak, to even getting a mild burn or rash. Usually this won't happen but there is always a slight risk. If you've been experiencing problems with dry/brittle lifeless hair this could be one of the factors.
Rule of thumb: Don't mix brands!
(I learned all of this in the "Make-up for Theater" course I took at University. It was covered in the chapter on the Chemistry of Cosmetics. We performing artists are slightly concerned with our appearance! If we dont' look good than who will want to see us on stage?!!)
*A Cosmetic factoid*
Our skin and hair normally lean slightly towards the acidic side of the pH scale.
Most soaps, shampoos, and even hard tap water lean towards the basic side of the pH scale (which is why they strip oils and dirt so well from our bodies, hair and scalp- and also can leave hair and skin dry and itchy.)
Conditioners usually have an acidic pH to counter the effects of hard tap water, shampoos, soaps, etc... Use of a conditioner helps to hasten the restoration of your hair and scalp's natural pH balance.
This is why it is essential to always use a conditioner when you shampoo! (Of course- you probably know all of this- I think I'm preaching to the congragation... hehehe)
On a different note and for the very same reasons it is also a good idea to use a moisturizer (even men) after you wash your face to keep your skin from drying out. A good low cost brand (that I believe is hypo-allergenic) is "St. Ives Collagen and Elastin moisturizer". It can be found in most pharmacies or grocery stores. Using a moisturizer will help keep you looking younger longer. Of course- it's up to you to choose your favorite.
And all this time, I thought it was because each company wants us to only buy their product and not their competitor's!
I have dryness issues too. I had an idea that maybe Baby Shampoo would be worth a try. You know, the cheap yellow stuff, that won't hurt if you get it in your eyes. I think its made by Johnson n Johnson, or you can get generic. I beleive it is alcohol free. It is a lot gentler, and weaker, and smells pretty good. Doesn't dry my hair out as much. Give it a shot, its like 99 cents. Good luck.
slacker