What is the primary purpose of a clarifying shampoo?

The primary purpose of a clarifying shampoo is to remove product buildup from the hair and scalp. Over time, daily use of styling products, conditioners, and even hard water can leave a residue that regular shampoos aren’t able to fully cleanse. Clarifying shampoos contain stronger cleansing agents that specifically target and eliminate these residues, leaving the hair feeling fresher and lighter. This is particularly important for individuals who use a lot of styling products, as the buildup can weigh down the hair and dull its appearance.

Moisturizing hair is typically the role of moisturizing shampoos, which are designed to hydrate and nourish the hair rather than strip it of buildup. Adding shine is more associated with specific shine-enhancing products or conditioning treatments, which focus on improving the hair's luster rather than cleansing it deeply. Coloring hair is the function of hair dyes or color treatments, which are not related to the cleansing properties of clarifying shampoos. Thus, the function of a clarifying shampoo remaining focused on product buildup removal distinguishes its purpose clearly from these other options.