If You Have Oily Roots, This Is What Might Be Missing From Your Routine

BeautyThe 15 Best Clarifying Shampoos + Signs You Need OneAuthor: Hannah FryeJuly 27, 2023Assistant Beauty & Health EditorBy Hannah FryeAssistant Beauty & Health EditorHannah Frye is the Assistant Beauty Editor at mindbodygreen. She has a B.S. in journalism and a minor in women’s, gender, and queer studies from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Hannah has written across lifestyle sections including health, wellness, sustainability, personal development, and more.What is a clarifying shampoo?Criteria Best clarifying shampoosSigns you need a clarifying shampooFAQThe takeawayImage by mbg creativeJuly 27, 2023Our editors have independently chosen the products listed on this page. If you purchase something mentioned in this article, we may earn a small commission.

There are myriad reasons someone might gravitate toward a clarifying shampoo: Perhaps you have an oily scalp that's prone to buildup. Maybe you have notoriously flat hair that's begging for a lift at the roots, or maybe you just want that scrubbed-clean feeling post-shower.

Regardless of motive (or hair type, might we add), a clarifying cleanse can transform your dull strands into the soft, shiny locks you adore. Although, finding the best clarifying shampoo for your hair can feel like a grind. To help you out, we've curated the best clean clarifying shampoos on the market. To come, our picks and how to use them.

What is a clarifying shampoo?

"A clarifying shampoo is a deep cleanser for the hair and scalp. It is formulated to remove excess buildup from products, impurities, and any residues in the hair and scalp," stylist, colorist, and co-owner at Broome Street Society in New York City Josie Sanchez told mbg.

Clarifying shampoos are amped-up versions of the day-to-day ones that thoroughly clean both the hair follicles, scalp, and hair fiber.

Preview of the best clarifying shampoos of 2023

• Best overall: Ouai Detox Shampoo ($32)
• Best gentle: Act+Acre Cold Processed Hair Cleanse ($32)
• Best color-safe: Colorproof Clear It Up Shampoo ($38)
• Best for curls: Pattern Cleansing Shampoo ($20)
• Best for dry hair: dpHue Apple Cider Vinegar Soothing Shampoo
• Best splurge: Oribe The Cleanse Clarifying Shampoo ($49)
• Best budget: Monday Haircare Clarify Shampoo ($8)
• Best for volume: Olaplex No.4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo ($32)
• Best for odor: amika Reset Clarifying Gel Shampoo ($28)
• Best for hard water: Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Triple Detox Shampoo ($34)
• Best for weekly use: HOURS Day 7 Shampoo ($32)
• Best for damaged hair: K18 Peptide Prep Clarifying Detox Shampoo ($38)
• Best for oily hair: Bumble and bumble Sunday Clarifying Shampoo ($32)
• Best for thin hair: JVN Embody Voluminizing Shampoo ($21)
• Best for shine: Davines SOLU Shampoo ($34)

mindbodygreen's picks for the best clarifying shampoos of 2023

Best overall: Ouai Detox Shampoo

:view on Sephora | $32:view on Ouai | $32:view on Amazon | $32

Pro

• Cuts through stubborn grease & buildup
• Floral scent masks hints of vinegar

Con

• Not the best for severely damaged hair

Key ingredients:

Apple cider vinegarHydrolyzed keratin

Best for:

Oily hairColor-treated hairCurly hairStraight hairWavy hair

Apple cider vinegar is the workhorse in this formula, as it deeply cleanses the scalp and even leads to shiny, soft hair (it brings your hair's pH levels back down and seals the cuticle shut). ACV can also help with dandruff: The acidity makes it a less favorable environment for the yeast to thrive, which can help itchy flakes subside. Massage into your scalp, let it sit for a few minutes, and rinse with cold water for the shiniest of strands.

What our tester says:

I know this product is adored online, but it's worth the hype in real life, too. I tested this formula after I neglected to wash my hair for a week (hey, things happen) and it immediately restored the shine, leaving my strands and scalp clear of gels, oils, and dry shampoo that had built up over the previous seven days. It's slightly drying (as most clarifying shampoos are) so super dry and damaged hair may not love the results. The formula is super concentrated, so a tiny bit goes a long way. Be sure to add water to your hands to get the formula foamy before applying.

Apple cider vinegar is the workhorse in this formula, as it deeply cleanses the scalp and even leads to shiny, soft hair (it brings your hair's pH levels back down and seals the cuticle shut). ACV can also help with dandruff: The acidity makes it a less favorable environment for the yeast to thrive, which can help itchy flakes subside. Massage into your scalp, let it sit for a few minutes, and rinse with cold water for the shiniest of strands.

Read full review

Best gentle: Act+Acre Cold Processed Hair Cleanse

:view on Act+Acre | $32:view on Violet Grey | $32:view on Blue Mercury | $32

Pro

• Non-stripping

Con

• May not clear stubborn buildup

Key ingredients:

Apple amino acidsBaobob oilGlycerin

Best for:

Dry hairColor-treated hairCurly hairWavy hairSensitive scalps

If typical clarifying shampoos are just too harsh for your strands, this formula will stand out amongst the rest. Rather than an ultra-sudsy foam, this creamy formula ever-so-gently removes buildup and oil from the scalp and strands, without disturbing the moisture barrier. It sounds too good to be true, but this clarifying shampoo really does help restore moisture in the hair.

What our tester says:

I call upon this shampoo whenever my hair feels dry but simultaneously dirty. It never (and I mean never) dries out my hair or scalp but I always notice an improvement in the look and feel of my hair. It's not quite strong enough to cut through intense buildup from products like harsh gels and sticky hairspray, but it's great to have on hand as your go-to, especially if you have a sensitive scalp or damaged strands.

If typical clarifying shampoos are just too harsh for your strands, this formula will stand out amongst the rest. Rather than an ultra-sudsy foam, this creamy formula ever-so-gently removes buildup and oil from the scalp and strands, without disturbing the moisture barrier. It sounds too good to be true, but this clarifying shampoo really does help restore moisture in the hair.

Read full review

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Best color-safe: Colorproof Clear It Up Shampoo

:view on Colorproof | $38:view on Amazon | $38

Pro

• Won't strip hair color like some formulas

Con

• Not the best for sensitive scalps

Key ingredients:

Apple cider vinegarBaking sodaEucalyptus oil

Best for:

Oily hairColor-treated hairCurly hairStraight hairWavy hair

It's generally best practice to skip clarifying shampoos when you have non-permanent hair color as many formulas can strip off a gloss or lighten a rich color tone. If this sounds like your hair situation, then opt for this color-safe formula. Colorproof is known for helping hair lovers protect their salon color and extend the life of it—this product is no different.

What reviewers say:

Reviewers of this product rave about the fresh and clean feeling it leaves behind and its ability to deeply cleanse sweat and dirt. Keep this product in mind if you have a gloss or semi-permanent dye job. Trust, it'll clear out buildup without stripping your hues.

It's generally best practice to skip clarifying shampoos when you have non-permanent hair color as many formulas can strip off a gloss or lighten a rich color tone. If this sounds like your hair situation, then opt for this color-safe formula. Colorproof is known for helping hair lovers protect their salon color and extend the life of it—this product is no different.

Read full review

Best for curls: Pattern Cleansing Shampoo

:view on Sephora | $20:view on Ulta | $20:view on Pattern | $20

Pro

• Gentle enough for curls & coils
• Affordable

Con

• May not remove stubborn buildup

Key ingredients:

Rosemary leaf extractSafflower seed extractCoconut oil

Anyone with curls or coils probably knows that clarifying shampoo can be a risky product to use, given that it may steal moisture from already dry textured hair. Luckily, this formula falls right in the middle: Natural cleansing agents help to lift light buildup and balance the scalp while powerhouse hydrators like coconut oil and safflower oil preserve the moisture simultaneously.

What reviewers say:

Some reviewers note that this formula doesn't get rid of stubborn buildup, which makes sense given that it has to keep moisture preserved in curls. It's not for those with super oily hair, but could be a game-changer for anyone with curly hair looking for a deeper clean.

Anyone with curls or coils probably knows that clarifying shampoo can be a risky product to use, given that it may steal moisture from already dry textured hair. Luckily, this formula falls right in the middle: Natural cleansing agents help to lift light buildup and balance the scalp while powerhouse hydrators like coconut oil and safflower oil preserve the moisture simultaneously.

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Best for dry hair: dpHue Apple Cider Vinegar Soothing Shampoo

:view on dpHue | $32:view on Amzon | $32:view on Ulta | $32

Pro

• Soothes itchy scalp

Con

• Not strong enough for stubborn buildup

Key ingredients:

Apple cider vinegarAloe veraLavender extractPanthenolPanthenol

Lo and behold, another ACV number. Although, this one is arguably gentler than a twice-a-week confection: It's jam-packed with soothing ingredients (think lavender, aloe, and ginseng root extract) that nourish the follicles while you scrub.

What reviewers say:

Reviewers with sensitive scalps and dry strands report more moisture and clear roots after using this wash. Many people report that it is gentler than other popular formulas.

Lo and behold, another ACV number. Although, this one is arguably gentler than a twice-a-week confection: It's jam-packed with soothing ingredients (think lavender, aloe, and ginseng root extract) that nourish the follicles while you scrub.

Read full review

Best splurge: Orbie The Cleanse Clarifying Shampoo

:view on Orbie | $49:view on Sephora | $49:view on Dermstore | $49

Pro

• Doesn't strip natural oils
• Powerful cleansing power

Con

• Pricey

Key ingredients:

Papaya fruit extractSea kelpVolcanic ashGreen tea

Best for:

Dry hairOily hairStraight hairWavy hair

Sure, the words volcanic ash may raise a few brows, but this ingredient is actually great for congested hair. It's been used for centuries to cleanse and purify, and it works similarly to activated charcoal—it's able to gently draw out impurities in the scalp and provide a natural lift at the roots. Plus, the product lends quite the fun, foamy application: It has the whipped texture of a mousse yet works into a lather when mixed with water.

What reviewers say:

One of the common statements made by reviewers is how effective the formula is—some even mention being able to go days without washing unlike before. Some people report slight dryness after using, so pair this shampoo with a moisture-replenishing hair mask if your strands are already on the dry side.

Sure, the words volcanic ash may raise a few brows, but this ingredient is actually great for congested hair. It's been used for centuries to cleanse and purify, and it works similarly to activated charcoal—it's able to gently draw out impurities in the scalp and provide a natural lift at the roots. Plus, the product lends quite the fun, foamy application: It has the whipped texture of a mousse yet works into a lather when mixed with water.

Read full review

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Best budget: Monday Haircare Clarify Shampoo

:view on Ulta | $8:view on Amazon | $8:view on Target | $8

Pro

• Affordable

Con

• Not great for dry hair types

Key ingredients:

Coconut oilGrapefruit extractVitamin E

Best for:

Oily hairStraight hairWavy hair

If you want to explore clarifying shampoos without breaking the bank, this one is a good start. It's a truly deep cleanse but does contain nourishing ingredients like vitamin E and coconut oil as well, helping to restore softness. This one is great for those with tons of oil or buildup looking for a fresh start, or trying to extend time between washes. Plus, you can find it at drugstores like Target and CVS.

What reviewers say:

Reviewers of this product lean into the effectiveness of this formula, occasionally noting some dryness. Many people report their hair feeling squeaky clean and staying clean for a few days between washes.

If you want to explore clarifying shampoos without breaking the bank, this one is a good start. It's a truly deep cleanse but does contain nourishing ingredients like vitamin E and coconut oil as well, helping to restore softness. This one is great for those with tons of oil or buildup looking for a fresh start, or trying to extend time between washes. Plus, you can find it at drugstores like Target and CVS.

Read full review

Best for volume: Olaplex No.4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo

:view on Sephora | $30:view on Amazon | $30:view on Ulta | $30

Pro

• Increases volume
• Adds clarity to hair color

Con

• Should be used more often

Key ingredients:

PanthenolBis-Aminopropyl Diglycol DimaleatPanthenolHyaluronic acid

This one is a crowd-pleaser, especially for folks who crave more volume from the root. The formula is far from stripping, but effectively gets rid of buildup and regulates oil production. The unique addition of Olaplex's patented bond-building ingredient blend Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleat ensures even damaged strands are being fed nourishment and protected during the wash.

What our tester says:

I'm obsessed with this formula because it makes my hair color pop. That's an often underrated use of many clarifying shampoos, partly because not every formula delivers on that front, but this shampoo is truly a color-enhancer. I do find myself reaching for it more often than the other products, but that's not necessarily a con for everyone—it just means it's a bit gentler than other options, so you can use it more frequently.

This one is a crowd-pleaser, especially for folks who crave more volume from the root. The formula is far from stripping, but effectively gets rid of buildup and regulates oil production. The unique addition of Olaplex's patented bond-building ingredient blend Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleat ensures even damaged strands are being fed nourishment and protected during the wash.

Read full review

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Best for odor: amika Reset Clarifying Gel Shampoo

:view on Sephora | $28:view on Amazon | $28:view on amika | $28

Pro

• Breaks through stubborn odor absorbed by the hair

Con

• Not the best for color-treated hair

Key ingredients:

Pink claySea buckthorn oilStem cellsCharcoal

Best for:

Oily hairStraight hairWavy hair

If your hair holds onto odor, you need this clarifying shampoo. The unique formula includes clay and charcoal to cleanse the hair of unwanted smells you may absorb when walking past a cloud of smoke, spending time in a locker room, etc.

What reviewers say:

Many reviewers praise the unique gel-like formula and note that it stands out amongst other products due to the light, refreshing feel. It's not the best for color-treated hair, especially with semi-permanent color treatments like glosses.

If your hair holds onto odor, you need this clarifying shampoo. The unique formula includes clay and charcoal to cleanse the hair of unwanted smells you may absorb when walking past a cloud of smoke, spending time in a locker room, etc.

Read full review

Best for hard water: Living Proof Perfect hair Day Triple Detox Shampoo

:view on Ulta | $34:view on Living Proof | $34:view on Sephora | $34

Pro

• Helps soften hair after hard water use

Con

• Not the best lather

Key ingredients:

GlycerinCharcoalAnionic polymer

Best for:

Dry hairOily hairCurly hairStraight hairWavy hair

Hard water can be, well, hard on your hair. If your strands have built up a rough texture but you spot no buildup, or know you haven't been using many styling products, it could be due to water pollutants—which this formula can help with. The anionic polymer helps to remove buildup, without stripping the hair. Gentle surfactants give it that freshly cleansed feel while soothing ingredients like glycerin protect the scalp.

What our tester says:

This one is unique because it's quite hydrating for a clarifying shampoo, but I still noticed a difference in the amount of buildup on my stands. It doesn't lather up like a super bubbly shampoo, so pick another product if you're married to that sensorial experience.

Hard water can be, well, hard on your hair. If your strands have built up a rough texture but you spot no buildup, or know you haven't been using many styling products, it could be due to water pollutants—which this formula can help with. The anionic polymer helps to remove buildup, without stripping the hair. Gentle surfactants give it that freshly cleansed feel while soothing ingredients like glycerin protect the scalp.

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Best for weekly use: hOURS Day 7 Shampoo

:view on hOURS | $32

Pro

• Great for infrequent hair washers

Con

• Slightly drying

Key ingredients:

Coconut oilVitamin EPeppermint oil

Best for:

Dry hairOily hairColor-treated hairCurly hairStraight hairWavy hair

For those who want to feel their scalp tingle, this one is a holy grail. The formula contains hydrators like coconut oil and vitamin E to protect the strands from drying out while the strong cleansing blend keeps your scalp clear as day. Unique additions like pea protein an avocado oil contribute to the soft, shiny look you'll get post-cleanse.

What our tester says:

I've never tried a product from hOURS that I didn't love, and this clarifying shampoo is just another example of the exceptional quality the brand delivers. My hair never feels dry after using this, but I notice it easily washes away even stubborn product residue. Plus, the gentle peppermint oil feels and smells divine.

For those who want to feel their scalp tingle, this one is a holy grail. The formula contains hydrators like coconut oil and vitamin E to protect the strands from drying out while the strong cleansing blend keeps your scalp clear as day. Unique additions like pea protein an avocado oil contribute to the soft, shiny look you'll get post-cleanse.

Read full review

Best for damaged hair: K18 Peptide Prep Clarifying Detox Shampoo

:view on Sephora | $38:view on K18 | $38:view on Amzon | $38

Pro

• Prevents structure damage

Con

• Not the best for sensitive scalps

Key ingredients:

PanthenolPanthenolCharcoalSalicylic acidK18PEPTIDEOriginal Article