Clarifying Shampoos and Rinses

You know for the longest time I've been meaning to tell the naaniFAM about this but every time I begin updating the site, my A.D.D. kicks in and I end up working on bunch of different projects and finishing none.

For the longest time folks have been asking me how to remove Build-up and it dawned on me, nowhere on the site do you mention Clarifying shampoos.  Yeah I know...DOH!

Well to my favor, most of you know how clarifying shampoos work right?  Most of you know that you should be using them periodically to help remove build-up and mineral deposits in your locks?  Most of you know that these are not shampoos to be used regularly because doing so will cause more harm than good.  Well since everyone knows this, I can stop typing now right?  Yeah I know, continue...

What are Clarifying Shampoos?
The quick and easy answer is that clarifiers work to deep-clean and remove buildup resulting from styling products, mineral deposits from Hard water and environmental factors (smog, smoke, dust, etc).

Clarifying shampoos contain heavy-duty Surfactants-the detergents used to cleanse the hair and remove oils.  Some also contain natural, acidic ingredients like vinegar or lemon to further cut through build-up that generally leaves your hair feeling heavy and looking dull.  

Many professionals suggest using a clarifier the week or so before undergoing a chemical procedure (i.e. relaxing or coloring) because doing so helps remove deposits enabling the trea tment to work more evenly and effectively.

How Often do You Use a Clarifying Shampoo?
Generally this depends on your product usage.  If you're the type who regularly uses lots of styling aids-pomades, oils, hair sprays and/or gels, you will probably have to use the clarifier more frequently than others.  

Because clarifying shampoos are so intense, they can also leave the hair and scalp feeling dry and brittle.  This is why they shouldn't be used as a regular shampoo.  

I suggest using the clarifier in one shampoo and a moisturizing shampoo for your final washing.  Follow it with a good conditioner and you will minimize any negative results associated with the clarifier.

For those with Dreadlocks, how often you use the clarifier will generally depend on how often you wash your hair.  If you're the type who goes 3+ weeks in-between shampoos, the use of a clarifier during at least one shampoo will help strip any build-up that has resulted in that time frame.  Again, follow the clarifier up with a moisturizing shampoo and a conditioning treatment to avoid dryness.

For those with straight/natural hair, you can generally use a clarifier less frequently.  Unless you're using a lot of product in-between shampoos, generally those with African hair types can use a clarifier every 3-4 shampoos, if not more.  There's really no set time frame.  Some folks can go 6 months before needing the use of a clarifier so use your discretion.  It is however a good idea to use a clarifier the week or so before you relax/color your hair.

Natural Remedies
Essentially Herbal Vinegar Rinses and lemon are naturally acidic.  Doing an rinse herbal vinegar rinse will serve as a natural alternative to clarifying shampoos.  Once every 2-3 weeks will sufficiently remove any build-up that has accumulated.  They will also help close the cuticle, seal in moisture and aid in styling.

Rotating Shampoos & Conditioners
To avoid overall build-up, the easiest thing to do is to rotate your shampoos and conditioners.  Most professionals suggest rotating your products every 4-6 months.  By doing so, you will get the best results from the product and will avoid having to undergo a product-switch every time you think the products lose their effectiveness.

So, it's best to have 2 or 3 product lines that you know will work well with your hair and rotating them every few months to keep your hair looking its best.