Shampoo

What does shampoo do?

Shampoo works as a cleanser for your scalp and strands. It gives a deep cleansing that clears away dirt, sweat and build-up from your day. At the same time, it helps maintain balance so your hair feels fresh and healthy.

The right shampoo won’t strip away your natural oils. It works with them to leave you soft, clean and easy to manage. Choosing one that fits your needs makes every wash part of a healthy haircare routine that keeps your hair looking and feeling its best.

Are you supposed to put shampoo on your ends?

No, your roots need shampoo the most because that’s where oil and buildup collect. A light cleansing at the scalp is usually enough, and the lather will flow down to clean the rest.

Your ends don’t need the same treatment. Rubbing shampoo through them every wash can make them feel dry and more prone to split ends and breakage. To keep them smooth, use conditioner or a hair treatment instead.

Is it good to dilute shampoo with water?

No, you don’t need to add water to your bottle. Most formulas are already balanced with the right mix of ingredients to cleanse your hair and scalp. Adding extra water can throw this off and make the hair product less effective.

If you’re after a gentler wash, look for a sulphate-free or paraben-free shampoo. For a deeper refresh, reach for a clarifying shampoo. These give a thorough, purifying clean without leaving your hair dry. To boost results, choose shampoos enriched with keratin, argan oil or hydrating ingredients that smooth and strengthen hair.

How often should I shampoo my hair?

How often you wash comes down to your scalp, hair type and lifestyle. You might need to wash more often to feel fresh if you’ve got oily hair. If your hair feels dry, leaving longer gaps between washes helps lock in hydration and keeps strands looking smoother.

The right products support that balance. A moisture shampoo adds softness and nourishment, while dry shampoo refreshes roots and absorbs oil on days you skip a wash. When your haircare routine matches your hair concerns, it’s easier to keep your hair looking fresh and healthy.

Can shampoo expire?

Yes. Like any product, hair shampoo has a shelf life. Once opened, it’s exposed to air and humidity, which can cause the formula to break down. This makes it less effective over time. You may notice changes in the texture, smell or lather, which are all signs it’s time to replace it.

Using expired shampoo & conditioner usually won’t cause major harm, but it won’t clean as well and can leave your hair dull or your scalp irritated. For the best results, keep bottles tightly closed, store them in a cool place, and replace them when they’ve been sitting around too long.

Can I bring shampoo on a plane?

Absolutely! You can pack shampoo in your carry-on as long as it follows airline rules for liquids. That usually means bottles of 100ml or less, stored in a clear bag. Big haircare bottles can go in checked luggage if you want to take your whole routine with you.

For trips, a travel-size shampoo or a shampoo bar is the easiest choice. Both are compact, convenient and simple to top up when you next hit checkout. That way, your hair feels fresh no matter where your flight takes you.

Which shampoo is best for my hair type?

The best shampoo is the one suited to your hair type and needs. Matching it to your biggest hair concern makes your wash more effective and helps you keep your locks looking healthier every day.

Here’s how to choose the right one for you:

• Dry hair: Hydrating formulas soak moisture back into thirsty strands, helping them feel softer and less prone to breakage.
• Curly hair: Defined curls need gentle cleansing with anti-frizz haircare to keep their natural bounce without weighing them down.
• Fine hair: A volume shampoo gives a light lift at the roots so hair feels fuller and holds style better.
• Thinning hair: Hair growth shampoos support a healthier scalp and leave hair looking fuller over time.
• Damaged hair: Weak, over-processed strands benefit from a repair shampoo that strengthens the cuticle and smooths rough texture.
• Blonde hair: Using a blonde shampoo tones down brassy hues, keeping blonde shades bright and fresh.

How to use shampoo properly

Washing your hair seems simple, but the way you do it can change how your hair looks and feels. Using the right technique helps your shampoo work at its best, whether it’s a hydrating shampoo, a frizz shampoo or a shampoo for sensitive scalps.

No matter your hair type, these steps will help you get a better clean and healthier strands:

1. Wet your hair thoroughly: Make sure your hair is fully wet so the shampoo spreads evenly and lathers well.
2. Apply a small amount: A coin-sized amount is usually enough to clean without stripping too much.
3. Focus on your scalp: Gently massage the roots with your fingertips to lift away dirt, oil and buildup while leaving the ends protected.
4. Rinse well and repeat if needed: A second wash can help if you use heavy styling products or want a deeper clean.
5. Finish with conditioner: Lock in hydration with a conditioner or add hair treatments for extra moisturising, nourishing or strengthening care.

At Hairhouse, you’ll find a wide range of international and Australian hair shampoo brands, from everyday favourites to bestsellers you’ll love. Shop online and enjoy quick delivery straight to your door, or use our store locator to find the nearest Hairhouse.

Need expert advice? Chat with our experts during a consultation to match the right shampoo to your hair type and routine!