Clarifying goes by many names. “Detox” and “reset” are two common alternative names for it. Clarifying is extremely important for curls. Without it, you risk the issue of product buildup.
What is clarifying?
Clarifying involves using stronger shampoos and cleansing products to deeply cleanse your hair and strip away all buildup. They remove product, dead skin, dirt and flakiness. Think of it as detoxifying your hair. Before resetting your curls, you need to know when it’s right to do so. If you feel like you’re experiencing buildup, then it’ probably a good time to clarify.
Signs of product buildup
- Greasy/oily look and feel (especially at the roots)
- Raggedy looking curls – sitting all over the place and clashing
- Flat roots/weighed down hair
- Flaking
- Hair feels dirty even after being washed, or feels like it needs to be washed again only after a couple days post wash day
What causes product buildup
Product buildup can be caused from several practices:
- Not thoroughly washing your hair, even with normal shampoo. Instead, thoroughly wash your hair through engaging the roots and massaging them with your shampoo
- Using an abnormally high amount of product
- Using products with harsh ingredients and/or ingredients that are hard to wash out
- Not using a clarifying shampoo
- Not using a strong enough shampoo (usually described as ‘lightweight’)
How to reset
Look for a product containing words like “clarify,” “reset,” or “detox.” These products generally come in shampoo or mask forms. I recommend using a clarifying clay wash because of absorbent properties found in the clay.
If you choose to use a shampoo, then swap out your usual shampoo and use that one instead. Opt for a double wash if you feel like you need some extra help. Follow up with conditioner as usual.
Bonus tip:
Deep conditioning after clarifying is a great way to give your freshly cleansed hair a boost of moisture and hydrating ingredients.
