Let’s Just Get to the Point:
Whether you want to deep clean your strands, your scalp, or both, Hask Purifying Charcoal Shampoo ($6) delivers. Still, it’s gentle enough that it won’t strip your color, or leave your hair feeling dry or brittle.
If You Want to Know More:
There’s no denying that charcoal is the ‘it’ ingredient of the moment, making an appearance in everything from face masks to toothpaste to even ice cream. Add shampoo to that list; the Hask Purifying Charcoal Shampoo uses a combo of charcoal and citrus oils in its clarifying formula.
Known for its standout detoxifying abilities, charcoal works by absorbing and removing impurities. So it’s no surprise that it would be a good choice in a shampoo, given that all kinds of dirt, oil and residue can quickly buildup on both the scalp and hair. Here, it’s a charcoal derived from coconut shells (who knew?) doing the heavy lifting to purify and deep clean.
Admittedly, the idea of a charcoal-based shampoo was a bit off-putting at first. I use charcoal often, but it can definitely be a bit gritty, particularly in beauty products. But I was pleasantly surprised at the creamy, not in the least bit gritty, consistency of this shampoo; the only indication of its namesake ingredient was a pearlescent-gray color.
As a general rule, clarifying shampoos come with a trade-off: Sure, your hair feels extra clean, but it can also feel dried out and brittle as a result. Not the case here. This formula lathered nicely, rinsed cleanly and completely, and left my hair smooth and snarl-free, even pre-conditioner. Lemon and grapefruit oils made for a citrusy scent that was refreshing, without being overly cloying.
And to address the elephant in the room, it is in fact safe even for colored hair, not to mention is also free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, gluten, alcohol, and artificial colors, and gentle enough daily use. Whether you make it your regular sudser or reserve it for times when you’re in need of a deep clean, this shampoo is worth adding to your shower stash.
