New Hampshire Cosmetology Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Clarifying shampoo is specifically designed to remove buildup from products, oils, and impurities in the hair. This cleansing action is crucial before applying hair color because it ensures that the hair is clean and free from any residue that could interfere with the dye's adhesion or even alter its effectiveness. By starting with clean hair, the color can penetrate the strands more evenly and achieve a more consistent result.

Using a clarifying shampoo deeply cleanses without leaving any product behind, which would otherwise inhibit the color from fully absorbing into the hair. This preparation step is important to achieve the desired shade and longevity of the color treatment.

Other products like conditioner or leave-in treatments are meant to moisturize and protect the hair but can leave residues that might hinder the color process. Hair serum typically serves to smooth and add shine, but like the others, it may not adequately prepare the hair for coloring as it doesn’t provide the necessary cleansing action that a clarifying shampoo does.