In the previous article, I discussed the benefits of clarifying with bentonite clay masks and shared some great masks to experiment with.
However, if bentonite clay masks can clarify and detox curls, does this mean you can eliminate commercial clarifying shampoo completely?
In this article, I explore the differences between clarifying shampoo and bentonite clay mask and which is better for removing product buildup.
Both methods can effectively cleanse the hair and scalp, but they work in different ways and offer distinct benefits.
Understanding these two options will help you choose the proper treatment for your hair care routine.
Let’s examine clarifying shampoos and bentonite clay masks in more detail, their benefits, potential drawbacks, and how they affect hair health.
What is Clarifying Shampoo?
Clarifying shampoos are specially formulated with stronger surfactants than regular shampoos.
They are designed to remove heavy buildup caused by styling products, oils, and other residues, such as silicones, mineral deposits from hard water, or chlorine.
Clarifying shampoos break down and lift away these residues from hair and scalp.
Benefits of Clarifying Shampoos
- Quick and Easy to Use: The application process for clarifying shampoos is straightforward. No additional preparation is needed, and it doesn’t require a long time to leave it on your hair.
- Effective for Heavy Buildup: Clarifying shampoos excel at removing buildup from products such as hairsprays, gels, oils, and styling creams. They can also remove mineral buildup from hard water, making hair look dull and lifeless.
- Scalp Cleansing: Besides clarifying the hair, these shampoos also clean the scalp by removing oil, sweat, and environmental pollutants. This ensures a fresh, clean surface for hair to grow and thrive.
Despite all these advantages, clarifying shampoos can be drying due to the strong surfactants and may irritate sensitive scalps. They also can’t be used frequently.
What is Bentonite Clay?
Bentonite clay is a natural mineral known for its powerful cleansing and detoxifying properties.
When mixed with hot water or apple cider vinegar, bentonite clay forms a paste that can be applied to hair and scalp.
This clay mask can absorb toxins, oils, dirt, and product buildup in the hair and scalp, drawing them out.
Benefits of Bentonite Clay Masks
- Gentle on Hair: Unlike clarifying shampoos, bentonite clay masks are often gentler on the hair and scalp. Bentonite clay removes impurities without stripping the hair of its natural oils, making it an excellent option for dry, curly, or textured hair.
- Nourishing and Mineral-Rich: Bentonite clay contains beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, nourishing hair and scalp. These minerals help maintain healthy hair and promote growth while also helping to balance the scalp’s natural oils.
- Promotes Scalp Health: One of the key advantages of bentonite clay is its ability to detoxify the scalp. It helps to unclog hair follicles, reduce dandruff, and balance the scalp’s oil production. This makes it an excellent treatment for those with oily scalps or scalp conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
- Moisturizing: In addition to clarifying, bentonite clay has moisturizing properties. It helps hydrate the hair, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and manageable after use. This makes it an excellent option for maintaining moisture balance in the hair.
Despite these benefits, applying bentonite clay masks and waiting for them to activate is time-consuming.
Additionally, the application is messy, and depending on how curly, thick, and long your hair is, it can take some time to rinse out all the clay.
Clarifying Shampoo vs. Bentonite Clay: Which is Best for Hair?
Both clarifying shampoos and bentonite clay masks effectively remove buildup but cater to different hair needs and preferences.
Ultimately, both clarifying shampoos and bentonite clay masks serve their purpose in removing buildup.
Use a clarifying shampoo if you use many styling products, have an oily scalp, or need a quick and effective cleanse.
Use a bentonite clay mask if you prefer natural ingredients, want to detoxify without harsh chemicals, have dry, curly, or sensitive hair, or need a more nourishing approach to clarifying.
For the best results, consider incorporating both into your routine. Use a clarifying shampoo once a month or less and a bentonite clay mask as a gentler alternative when your hair needs a refresh without stripping essential moisture.
If your hair has been in a protective style for an extensive time as well, you will need to use a clarifying shampoo to remove all the buildup, regardless of your hair type. However, you could dilute the shampoo to reduce the stripping effects.
Whichever option you choose, it’s essential to balance your clarifying treatments with regular conditioning and moisturizing to keep your hair healthy, hydrated, and looking its best.
Abi is a curly hair care expert and an avid researcher. She is the founder of Ade Ori Hair Care, Natural Oils for Hair & Beauty, and Healthy Natural Hair Products, premier destinations for the best information, support and resources for your natural hair care and healthy hair journey! Learn more here.
