Selecting the Right Shampoo and Conditioner for Your Hair Type

Beauty supply stores and retail discount stores have a plethora of products to choose from. Therefore, selecting the right hair shampoo or conditioner can be a bit overwhelming. Just as like choosing any skin care product understanding the condition you are trying to address will aid in selecting the right product.

When selecting your shampoo and conditioner, the questions you should ask is "what is my hair type" and "what problems am I trying to address".

Coarse and dry hair is caused from lack of moisture to the ends of the hair. This lack of moisture is also the reason for split ends. When selecting shampoo and/or conditioner seek out ingredients that are rich in moisture such as shea butter and emu oil to name a few. Damaged hair will also benefit from moisture rich shampoo and conditioner. Additionally, hair masks that add protein and moisture will alleviate dry coarse hair.

Recommedation: Emu Shampoo and Conditioner






Hair that is limp and fine is usually on the oily side too. While this hair type does not necessarily need a conditioner it may need a volumizing shampoo and a spray mist for detangling. Spray conditioners or detanglers are perfect as they do not reach the scalp and add any unwanted oil.

Recommendation: Oily Hair and Scalp Kit

Breaking hair is the result of not enough moisture to maintain flexibility. This is a common occurrence in Black and African American women due to the hairs naturally and tightly wound nature. A conditioner that adds protein and amino acid will alleviate breakage and repair the cuticle layer. Additionally, some homemade protein masks will do wonders.

Recommendation:  Nourish for Dry Brittle Hair

For those lucky enough to have normal hair (no obvious signs of damage, split ends, to oily or to dry) select products that will add shine, bounce and luster.

For more hair care articles and recipes visit Complete Hair Care Therapy.

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How Your Health Affects Your Hair

Hair problems such as dry brittle hair, hair thinning, hair loss and flaky scalp can be an indicator of a health condition or lack of nutrients in the body. There is a direct correlation between your health and the health of your hair.


Hair Breakage, Dry, Brittle, and Dull Hair - there are basically three reasons for this hair condition. The first is self-inflicted by the use of blow dryers, flat irons, chemical processes, pulling the hair to tight with pony tails, braids and excessive sun exposure. All of the above damages the cuticle layer of the hair shaft. The second is lack of protein and/or moisture to the hair. The omega 3 fatty acids found in salmon, flaxseed or fish oil supplements will play a role in keeping the strands strong, healthy and shiny. Lastly is low levels of parathyroid hormone which causes calcium to fall and phosphorous to rise. However, if this is the case you will also notice scaly skin.

Limp and Thin Hair - thinning hair is not the same as hair loss. Thinning hair is when the actual texture of the hair changes. Thinning hair is usually an indication of an under active thyroid. Sometimes the eyebrows will thin and a good indication of an under active thyroid is the outermost third of the eyebrow thins out or disappears altogether. If this be the case, consult with you doctor and a test can determine your thyroid levels.

Hair Loss - it is normal to lose about 100-150 strands of hair a day. However excessive hair loss can be caused by changes in hormones, medications, stress, eating disorders (lack of proper nutrition) and ill health. Hair loss for the above reasons is usually temporary and will grow back.

Eczema, Dandruff, Psoriasis - all of these conditions affect the scalp and cause dry, itchy and flakes. While these conditions can be controlled with certain shampoos specifically made for the condition it is advised that you see your doctor so that you know what condition you are treating. For instance, dandruff is not dry scalp; it is an inflammation of the scalp. Psoriasis on the other hand will form a thick crust on the scalp usually at the hairline.

Gray Hair - gray hair is genetic. If one of your family members had gray hair chances are you are predisposed to gray hair too. The hair doesn't actually turn gray but it is the new growth that comes in gray. As we age there is a decrease in melanin production in the hair bulb, thus new strands form and grow out with less or no pigment.

To summarize, your health plays an important role in the health of your hair. Your hair needs protein and moisture just like the rest of the body. If there are no underlying health issues affecting your hair then take the time to treat it gently and provide the nourishment it needs with a healthy diet and an occasional hair mask.

Visit Complete Hair Care Therapy for some great hair mask recipes to add protein and nourish the hair.

Also check out Healthy Hair Plus and get 15% off of great hair care products!