If your hair is feeling dull, lifeless, heavy, and unclean even after washing, you may be suffering from hair buildup. This is caused by a variety of issues, which we’ll go into more detail about in a moment.

But whatever the cause, your hair most likely needs a clarifying shampoo.

In this post, we’ll go into the causes of hair buildup, what is a clarifying shampoo, common questions about using clarifying shampoos, a roundup of the best clarifying shampoos, as well as clarifying shampoos for curly, straight, and color-treated hair. So, let’s get into it!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my full disclosure for more information.

What is Hair Buildup?

Hair buildup is a common issue that can leave hair feeling greasy, limp, and lifeless. It's primarily caused by a combination of internal and external factors:

Styling Products: One of the most common causes of buildup is the frequent use of hair styling products like gels, waxes, sprays, and mousses. These products can leave residues that accumulate over time, especially if they are not thoroughly washed out.
Shampoos and Conditioners: While designed to clean and condition your hair, some shampoos and conditioners can leave residue, especially if they contain silicones, waxes, and heavy moisturizing agents. These ingredients can coat the hair shaft, leading to buildup.
Natural Oils: Sebum, the natural oil produced by your scalp, can also contribute to buildup. While sebum is essential for keeping hair healthy and moisturized, excessive production can lead to oily hair and scalp buildup.
Minerals in Water: Hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, can leave deposits on your hair over time. This is especially true if you live in an area with particularly hard water.
Environmental Pollutants: Dust, dirt, and other environmental pollutants can accumulate in your hair, adding to the buildup, especially in urban and industrial areas.
Infrequent Washing: Not washing your hair regularly can allow the natural oils and any products you use to accumulate, leading to buildup.
Dead Skin Cells: Just like the rest of your skin, your scalp sheds dead skin cells. If not properly cleansed, these can mix with natural oils and hair products, contributing to buildup.
Chlorine and Other Chemicals: Regular swimmers might notice buildup due to chlorine in pool water. Similarly, chemicals in certain hair treatments can leave residue if not properly washed out.

Hair buildup can lead to a range of issues, such as dandruff, scalp irritation, and a decrease in hair volume and shine. Regular use of a clarifying shampoo, appropriate to your hair type, can help prevent and remove buildup, keeping your hair looking healthy and vibrant.

What is Clarifying Shampoo?

Clarifying shampoo is designed to deeply cleanse the hair, removing residue, product buildup, and excess oils that regular shampoos might leave behind. It's the deep clean solution for your hair.

The Purpose of Clarifying Shampoo

Clarifying shampoos serve a specialized role in hair care. Unlike regular shampoos that focus on daily dirt and sebum, clarifying shampoos are formulated to tackle tougher challenges. They act like a detox for your hair, removing not just everyday grime but also the accumulated residue from styling products, conditioners, and even mineral deposits from hard water. This deep-cleaning ability makes them a crucial product for maintaining hair health.

Composition and Function

What sets clarifying shampoos apart are their active ingredients. They often contain surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate, which are more effective at cutting through oil and residue. However, their strength doesn’t stop at just cleaning; they can also effectively reset your hair’s natural pH balance, which can be disrupted by various hair products and environmental factors.

The Immediate Effect

Using a clarifying shampoo can be a revelation, especially if you've never used one before. After a wash, you might notice your hair feels exceptionally clean, almost 'squeaky'. This sensation is due to the removal of all the residues that coat the hair shafts. For those who use heavy styling products or have naturally oily hair, the difference can be quite dramatic. Hair not only feels cleaner but also appears more voluminous and vibrant, as it’s no longer weighed down by buildup.

Ideal Usage Scenarios

Clarifying shampoos are particularly beneficial for those who frequently use styling products like hairsprays, gels, or waxes. Swimmers can also benefit greatly, as these shampoos can remove chlorine buildup from the hair. Furthermore, individuals living in areas with hard water will find clarifying shampoos effective in combating the dulling effects of mineral deposits.

The Balancing Act

While clarifying shampoos are a powerful tool, they need to be used judiciously. Their strength can also be their downside if used too frequently, as they can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness and potential irritation. Therefore, understanding your hair type and needs is essential in incorporating a clarifying shampoo into your routine without disrupting your hair’s natural harmony.

What is the Best Clarifying Shampoo Out There?

The "best" clarifying shampoo depends on hair type and personal preference. Here are five widely acclaimed options, each with its unique strengths:

Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo
- Best for: Hydration and Nourishment
- Why It Stands Out: Infused with argan oil, keratin, and lavender, rosemary, chamomile, and jojoba extracts, this product not only cleanses thoroughly but also nourishes and hydrates the hair. It’s particularly beneficial for those with dry or color-treated hair who don’t want to compromise on moisture while clarifying.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three
- Best for: Removing Chlorine and Impurities
- Why It Stands Out: Ideal for swimmers and those exposed to heavy styling products, this shampoo excels in removing chlorine and impurities, minimizing future damage and discoloration. It's also great for preventing that 'swimmers' green' that can occur with frequent exposure to chlorinated water.
Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo
- Best for: Weekly Detox
- Why It Stands Out: Designed to be used once a week, this shampoo removes residue of styling products, hard water, and pollutants. It's perfect for resetting the hair's condition, leaving it with a fresh start each week. Note that it's not recommended for color-treated hair, due to its deep-cleansing properties.
Redken Hair Cleansing Cream Shampoo
- Best for: Versatility and Gentle Clarification
- Why It Stands Out: Suitable for all hair types, this shampoo uses a high concentration of chelating agents to remove minerals and styling product buildup. It’s gentle enough for regular use and is particularly effective in areas with hard water.

Each of these clarifying shampoos offers unique benefits, catering to different hair care needs. Whether it’s removing product buildup, combating the effects of hard water, or maintaining healthy, hydrated hair, there’s an option available that suits various requirements and preferences.

Difference Between Detox and Clarifying Shampoo?

Understanding the difference between detox and clarifying shampoos is crucial for choosing the right product for your hair care needs. Both are deep-cleaning formulas, but they target different issues.

Detox Shampoos

Target Area:
- Scalp-Centric: Detox shampoos are primarily formulated to purify the scalp. They focus on removing toxins, excess sebum, and environmental pollutants that can accumulate on the scalp.
Key Ingredients:
- Natural and Healing Elements: These shampoos often contain ingredients like activated charcoal, clay, or herbal extracts. These elements are known for their detoxifying properties and ability to draw out impurities from the scalp.
Benefits:
- Scalp Health: By targeting the scalp, detox shampoos can help alleviate issues like dandruff, itchiness, and oiliness, promoting a healthier scalp environment.
- Hair Growth Support: A clean, healthy scalp is a foundation for healthy hair growth. Regular use of a detox shampoo can contribute to improved hair growth and overall scalp health.
Usage Scenarios:
- Ideal for Polluted Environments: If you live in a city or an area with high pollution, a detox shampoo can help combat the effects of environmental aggressors.

Clarifying Shampoos

Target Area:
- Hair Strands: Clarifying shampoos are designed to cleanse the hair strands themselves, effectively removing product buildup, hard water minerals, and excess oils.
Key Ingredients:
- Strong Surfactants: They typically contain stronger detergents like sulfates that are highly effective in cutting through residue.
Benefits:
- Deep Cleansing: These shampoos can rejuvenate and refresh hair, restoring natural volume and shine by stripping away residue.
- Preparation for Treatment: Clarifying shampoos are often used before chemical treatments like coloring or keratin treatments, as they ensure the hair is free of any substances that might interfere with the process.
Usage Scenarios:
- Ideal for Heavy Product Users: If you regularly use styling products such as hairsprays, gels, or waxes, a clarifying shampoo can help prevent buildup and maintain hair health.

While both detox and clarifying shampoos serve to clean hair deeply, their focus areas differ. Detox shampoos target the scalp, promoting its health and thereby indirectly benefiting hair growth and scalp comfort. On the other hand, clarifying shampoos concentrate on the hair itself, removing residues that weigh it down and dull its appearance. Understanding these differences can guide you in choosing the right product for your specific hair and scalp needs, ensuring optimal health and appearance of your hair.

Common Questions about Clarifying Shampoo

How Often Should You Use a Clarifying Shampoo?

It's generally recommended to use a clarifying shampoo once a week or every few weeks, depending on your hair type and the amount of product you use regularly.

How Does Your Hair Feel After a Clarifying Shampoo?

After using a clarifying shampoo, hair typically feels extremely clean, lightweight, and sometimes a bit dry. It's important to follow up with a good conditioner.

When Should You Not Use a Clarifying Shampoo?

Avoid clarifying shampoos if your hair is overly dry, damaged, or if you have a sensitive scalp. Also, if you have recently had certain chemical treatments, consult with your stylist first.

Disadvantages of Clarifying Shampoo

Overuse can lead to dryness, irritation, and stripping of natural oils. It's not ideal for daily use, especially for those with dry or color-treated hair.

How Do You Know If You Need a Clarifying Shampoo?

Signs include hair that feels weighed down, greasy, or doesn’t hold styles well, indicating product buildup.

Do I Use a Regular Shampoo After a Clarifying Shampoo?

You do not typically follow up with a clarifying shampoo when using a regular shampoo. Instead, follow up with a good conditioner.

Does Clarifying Shampoo Strip Hair Color?

Clarifying shampoo can accelerate the fading of dyed hair due to its deep-cleansing properties. Be sure to choose a clarifying shampoo made for color-treated hair. Keep scrolling to see my favorites for dyed hair.

Does Clarifying Shampoo Lighten Hair?

It doesn't lighten hair, but it can remove buildup that may make hair appear dull, restoring its natural shine.

Clarifying Shampoo for Curly Hair

When selecting a clarifying shampoo for curly hair, the key is to find products that effectively cleanse without stripping the natural oils that curls need to maintain their shape and moisture. Sulfate-free formulas are often recommended because they tend to be gentler on the hair. Here are a few more options that are well-suited for curly hair:

SheaMoisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo
This shampoo is designed to soothe the scalp while removing buildup. It’s infused with natural ingredients like African black soap and tea tree oil, which are great for promoting scalp health without over-drying curls.
DevaCurl Buildup Buster Micellar Water Cleansing Serum
DevaCurl's Buildup Buster uses micellar technology to gently remove buildup. It’s specifically formulated for curly hair and is enriched with natural oils to maintain moisture balance.
Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo
This unique micro-exfoliating shampoo is infused with binchotan charcoal to draw out impurities and coconut oil to moisturize. It's especially effective for curly hair that is prone to dryness and requires deep cleansing.
Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo
Formulated with citrus extracts to effectively cleanse without stripping essential oils, this shampoo is ideal for curly hair. It also helps to maintain the natural pH balance of the hair and scalp.
Kinky-Curly Come Clean Natural Moisturizing Shampoo
Free of harsh sulfates and parabens, this shampoo uses mandarin orange extract and sea kelp to cleanse and moisturize. It's excellent for curly hair, particularly those looking for a more natural formulation.
Curlsmith Wash & Scrub Detox Pro-Biotic
This product offers a unique approach to clarifying, using probiotics and micro-exfoliators to gently cleanse the scalp and hair. It’s particularly good for curly hair that needs a thorough cleanse without harsh chemicals.

When using clarifying shampoos on curly hair, it's important to follow up with a good conditioner or deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and ensure that your curls remain hydrated and defined. These products strike a balance between removing unwanted buildup and preserving the natural beauty of curly hair.

Clarifying Shampoo for NaturalLY STRAIGHT Hair

Focusing on clarifying shampoos for natural straight hair, it's important to find products that effectively cleanse the hair and scalp without causing excess dryness or weighing the hair down. Natural straight hair often requires a balance of thorough cleansing and lightweight hydration to maintain its smoothness and shine. Here are several clarifying shampoos well-suited for natural straight hair:

Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two
Designed for oily hair, it's great for natural straight hair that tends to get greasy. It deeply cleanses, minimizes oil production, and leaves hair fresh and shiny without over-drying.
Suave Naturals Daily Clarifying Shampoo
This is an affordable option that works well for normal to oily hair. It cleanses deeply, removing residue without stripping away essential moisture, making it a great everyday option for straight hair.
Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Blend Shampoo
Infused with apple cider vinegar, this shampoo is designed to add shine and volume to straight hair. It clarifies the scalp and hair while enhancing silkiness and reducing frizz. It’s also a very affordable option.
Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo
Ideal for occasional use, this weekly clarifying shampoo removes product residue and excess oil, leaving straight hair with a clean, airy lightness.
Kérastase Specifique Bain Divalent Shampoo
This shampoo is formulated for hair with an oily scalp but dry ends, which is a common concern for straight-haired individuals. It balances the scalp's oiliness while conditioning the lengths, ensuring smooth and lustrous hair.
Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo
Though deeply cleansing, it’s also nourishing, making it suitable for straight hair that needs a thorough cleanse without being stripped of natural oils. The argan oil in the formula helps maintain healthy shine.
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Triple Detox Shampoo
This shampoo not only removes buildup but also helps counteract hard water effects. It's ideal for straight hair exposed to urban environments and product buildup.

Each of these shampoos has unique benefits for straight hair, from managing oiliness to enhancing shine and smoothness. For natural straight hair, it's generally best to use clarifying shampoos sparingly – perhaps once a week or every few weeks – to prevent over-drying. Following up with a hydrating conditioner can also help maintain the natural balance and health of your hair.

Clarifying Shampoo for Colored Hair

Finding a clarifying shampoo that's safe for color-treated/dyed hair can be challenging, as you want something that cleanses effectively without fading your color. Here are a few additional options that are formulated to be gentle on colored hair while still providing the deep cleansing benefits of a clarifying shampoo:

Joico K-PAK Clarify Color Therapy Shampoo
This shampoo not only clarifies but also helps in preserving color vibrancy. Thanks to its gentle formula, it's designed to remove buildup and impurities while maintaining the integrity of the hair color.
Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo
Though it’s a deep-cleansing formula, it’s gentle enough for color-treated hair. The presence of argan oil and keratin in this shampoo helps nourish the hair while ensuring the color remains vibrant.
Redken Color Extend Magnetics Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Designed for color-treated hair, this shampoo uses a sulfate-free formula to cleanse and fortify the hair fiber without stripping color. Its RCT Protein Complex treats hair from the root to the tip, ensuring your color stays radiant for longer.
Oribe The Cleanse Clarifying Shampoo
Oribe's offering is unique in that it uses volcanic ash to powerfully cleanse the hair, removing dirt, oil, and buildup without affecting the color. It’s a luxury option that’s particularly effective for maintaining the health and vibrancy of colored hair.
Matrix Total Results Keep Me Vivid Sulfate-Free Shampoo
This shampoo is great for high-maintenance colors. It gently cleanses to prevent dullness and fading, ensuring your color stays as vibrant as possible for longer.

When using clarifying shampoos on colored hair, it’s important to be mindful of the frequency of use, as overuse can still potentially affect color vibrancy. Additionally, pairing these shampoos with color-safe conditioners can help protect and maintain your hair color. Each of these products is formulated to offer the cleansing power of a clarifying shampoo while being gentle on color-treated hair, ensuring that you get the best of both worlds.