Hair products or any product at the very least, seem to be such a hassle to possess. The myriad factors that affect our decisions to purchase ONE product almost requires meticulous R&D - cost analysis, product ingredients, tested on animals?, eco friendly?, organic, etc.. This is eventually narrowed down to ONE part of our anatomy: H-A-I-R. Locks play such an important role in our appearance that many (not necessarily women now with the rife existence of the much sought out metrosexual male mate) tend to seek the creame of products to maintain their glossy "whiskers".

I'm not an avid salon-goer but I definitely care (a bit too much if you ask me) about the health of my tresses.. I'm rather typical in many ways - Shampoo and conditiner every other day i.e Skip one day and leave-on moisturiser (now that I've highlighted my hair). I must admit that the Great Salon of God did a fine job with my hair. I am gifted with non-frizzy and soft, shiny hair. That being said, no one can outdo my days of BAD HAIR since I lack in the caring-for-your-hair department.

Salons in my opinion do have GREAT hair cleansing products. They leave your hair shiny and smelling great for 2 days tops in non-humid countries. However, I do not think that they are necessary. Most people shun from professional salon products due to the cost. So I decided to go price scouting to gather evidence to this assumption.

COST*:

My current shampoo, TRESemme (a salon recommended shampoo), leaves my scalp feeling fresh and clean with a floral after-scent. It costs about MYR 14.90 in Malaysia (About USD 4.50) for a 500ml bottle. However, a Sunsilk bottle of 750ml costs MYR 22.90 (USD 5...). Thus about the same for 500ml. Thus cost seems not to a factor.

*Prices are based on author's research at her nearby personal care store in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

ULTIMATELY:

The choice of product is always dependent on the user. I've tried numerous brands; Pantene, Sunsilk, TREsemme, L'oreal, Elsive and Dove. I'm loyal to products once I've found one that fits my criteria and needs. It is not necessary to stick to ONE BRAND for ALL essentials. I use TRESemme Moisture Rich for my Shampoo, Clairol Herbal Essences Hot Oils Conditioner and Pantene leave-on Anti-Aging Hair Moisturiser.

A list that may be used to help you purchase your "loyal" shampoo (not in order of importance):

• Price/Cost - The cost of living is on the rise so don't feel inferior if you are particular about this criterion. Cost is important and should be addressed. I usual do MENTAL MATH when I'm out shopping. I check for the volume of the products I've chosen and compare the price for say 500 ml or 1 litre, or whichever amount is convenient. This helps to provide an estimate of which is more expensive. Oh call me a cheapskate if you want to but it sure helps me! :D
• Scent - I usually flick open the cap and take a deep breath to inhale the scent of the shampoo. This factor is important as EVERYONE LOVES GREAT SMELLING HAIR. I usually go for a more floral scent but you should choose any scent that makes you feel at ease since it is going to be your constant companion when your perfume/eau de toilette wears off during the course of the day.
• Effect - I usually pay close attention to my hair when I use a new product during the end of the 1st week. This is because this is the period when the effect of the shampoo can be seen after sufficient time interval for the old shampoo to wear off. This usually takes about 2 washes - The time interval. If your hair drops a lot more during this period it may not be the right one for you.
• Conditioners & Leave-Ons - Please don't forget to apply generous amounts of conditioner to the tips of your hair during your shower and leave-on after your hair is dry. This is important as SHAMPOOs CLEANSE your scalp but they also remove natural oils from the roots of your hair. To nourish your hair and return moisture, conditioners are REQUIRED.
• Type - For dyed, bleached and/or highlighted hair, extra moisture is required or hair may be left brittle and dry. Look out for shampoo that has keywords such as "Extra Moisture", "with Vitamin E", "Conditioning Shampoo" and the likes. For all types of hair, the best bet would be on ph7 shampoo since it neutralises the acidity of the scalp. Alkaline shampoo may alter the acid balance of your hair though it may clean during wash.

Lastly, hair products (or any product as a matter of fact) need not be expensive to be effective. Salon shampoo is merely, (IM MY OPINION) more publicised. At the end of the day, caring for your hair is more important than any product that you use. Besides, we modern race runners dash through the day without time to check for all the added benefits of products anyway - as long as it washes and smells good. :D