When it comes to hair care, the world of shampoos can be overwhelming, especially when you encounter terms like "clarifying" and "chelating." Both are designed to give your hair a deep clean, but they serve distinct purposes. Understanding the differences between these two types of shampoos will help you choose the right one for your specific hair needs.
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What is a Clarifying Shampoo?
A clarifying shampoo is a deep-cleansing shampoo designed to remove product buildup and resin from your hair and scalp. Over time, products like hairspray, mousse, gel, and even regular shampoo and conditioner can leave residue on your hair. This buildup can weigh down your hair, making it look dull and lifeless.
Clarifying shampoos, such as Malibu C's Un-Do-Goo, work by using a combination of pH technology and surfactant technology. The pH technology helps to swell the hair cuticle, allowing the surfactants to penetrate deeper into the hair shaft. Surfactants are cleansing agents that lift and remove oils, dirt, and product buildup from the hair.
When to Use a Clarifying Shampoo:
Periodically for Maintenance: In general, we recommend that most hair types use a clarifying shampoo at least once per week, depending on their wash routine. This can ensure your hair and scalp receive a deep and thorough cleanse so all your favorite products keep working and your hair stays happy and healthy.
Before Coloring: Clarifying shampoos can prepare your hair for a more even color application by removing any residue that might block the absorption of color. Pair this with our Color Prepare Wellness Remedy to extend the life of your color results!
What is a Chelating Shampoo?
Chelating shampoos, on the other hand, are formulated to target and remove metal ions from the hair. These metal ions are minerals such as iron, copper, magnesium, and calcium and can accumulate in your hair from water or environmental exposure. Metal ions can cause various issues, including discoloration, dryness, brittleness, and even damage. It's important to understand that metal ions and minerals are essentially the same in this context.
The key ingredient in chelating shampoos is the chelator. Chelators are agents that have a strong affinity for metal ions. When applied to the hair, the chelator latches onto the metal ions, forming a stable complex that can be easily rinsed away. Think of it as a claw that grabs onto these unwanted metals, allowing them to be removed from your hair.
When to Use a Chelating Shampoo:
If You Have Hard Water: Hard water is the presence of calcium and magnesium in the water. The more calcium and magnesium present, the harder the water. Hard water can deposit these minerals, which oxidize over time, creating dull, lifeless hair that may be hard to comb and appear darker. Malibu C’s Hard Water Wellness Shampoo is gentle for everyday washing. This shampoo will help remove these deposits, leaving your hair softer and more manageable.
If Your Hair is Discolored: If you notice your blonde hair turning brassy or your light-colored hair developing an unwanted tint, a chelating shampoo can help by removing the metal ions responsible for the discoloration. We recommend our Hard Water Wellness Collection for intense hard water mineral buildup.
Clarifying vs. Chelating: Which Should You Choose?
While both clarifying and chelating shampoos offer deep cleansing, they serve different purposes. A clarifying shampoo like Un-Do-Goo is your best bet if your primary concern is product buildup. It will effectively remove residue from styling products and excess oils, leaving your hair feeling clean and rejuvenated.
On the other hand, if you’re dealing with hard water buildup, discoloration, or other issues related to metal ions, Hard Water Wellness Shampoo is the way to go. It targets the specific problem of metal ion accumulation, ensuring your hair is free from the damaging effects of these unwanted minerals.
You'll most likely benefit from using both shampoos. For example, the Hard Water Wellness Shampoo is excellent for everyday washing. Switching out one of those wash days for Un-Do-Goo is a great way to balance chelating and clarifying.
By understanding the unique benefits of clarifying and chelating shampoos, you can decide which product to incorporate into your hair care routine. Whether you're looking to banish buildup or rid your hair of pesky metal ions, Malibu C has a wellness solution for you.
