Just as there are different skin types, hair too has its own kind of traits. Especially when it comes to the comparison between Asian hair and Caucasian hair. Broadly speaking, Asian hair strands are round and thick. Although it’s generally quite straight, the texture can vary from fine to coarse, soft to hard. Compared to Caucasian hair, it’s less dense but relatively stronger and more resistant to breakage. However, Asians also tend to have oilier scalps, which is why daily washing is needed to prevent tresses from looking flat and greasy.
Factor in the hot and humid climate that we live in, it means you also have to deal with overactive sebum glands and sweat follicles, and it makes for a constant challenge to keep the hair light and voluminous. Then you consider that over-washing can sometimes lead to dry and brittle strands. It’s a fine line of balance and care.
As Celia Tham, the creative director of BLOC+ The Salon, shares “If the climate is really humid like Singapore, then it’s good to have a lighter shampoo for everyday use. It also depends on whether you’re targeting the hair or the scalp. Scalp shampoos do more deep-cleansing and they also help to thicken fine hair, but they are usually a little more drying. Soothing scalp shampoos are gentler and more suitable for daily use. Coarse and dry hair should opt for more moisturising shampoos. If you feel that makes your hair too limp or greasy, balance it with a lighter conditioner.”
Here are 15 shampoos that will help you get your way to healthy Asian hair, no matter what condition your hair is in.