Interview with hairstylist and founder of Salon B haircare, Andy Uffels: debunking shampoo myths

Today, I am interviewing Andy in his studio in Amersfoort about shampoos while he is testing new products. I’m Kim, a colleague of Andy, and part of the co-creation team for new products.

Kim: Andy, there are so many myths about shampoo in the world of hair care. Can you help us debunk some of these myths?

Andy: Of course, I’d love to! Over the years, I’ve heard so many myths about shampoos and hair washing, so I’m happy to provide some clarity.

Kim: OK, let’s start with the first myth: you need to regularly change your shampoo. What’s your opinion on this?

Andy: Many people believe that their hair gets used to a certain shampoo and that they need to change it regularly. However, this isn’t true. If you’ve found a shampoo that works well for your hair type, you can continue using it without negative consequences. The key is to choose a shampoo that meets your specific needs, such as hydration, volume, or color retention. We have a range of shampoos designed for different hair types and needs. For example, our Moisture Shampoo is perfect for maximum hydration and keeps hair frizz-free and manageable. It’s also great for curls. So, there’s a solution for every problem.

Kim: What can you tell us about the myth that washing your hair daily is bad?

Andy: That’s a common myth. The frequency of hair washing depends on your hair type and lifestyle. People with oily hair might benefit from daily washing, while those with dry or curly hair can wash less frequently. The key is to use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo that doesn’t strip your hair of its natural oils.

Kim: Which of your products would you recommend for this?

Andy: Try our Moisture Shampoo. This gentle formula cleanses effectively without drying out your hair (and seals in moisture), making it very suitable for daily use. Plus, it smells wonderful!

Kim: There’s also a saying that shampoo can stimulate hair growth. Is this true?

Andy: Unfortunately, no shampoo can directly stimulate hair growth. Hair grows from the follicles in your scalp, and growth is primarily influenced by genetics and health. What shampoo can do is create a healthy environment for your hair to grow by keeping the scalp clean and free of excess oils and buildup.

Kim: What would you recommend for maintaining a healthy scalp?

Andy: Our Healthy Scalp Shampoo contains ingredients that promote scalp health, such as vitamins and antioxidants, which can indirectly contribute to healthier-looking hair.

Kim: Another myth is that foam means your hair is getting clean. What’s your take on this?

Andy: The foam produced by shampoo is mostly a cosmetic effect and doesn’t indicate how well it cleans your hair. Many foaming shampoos contain sulfates, which are harsh detergents that can strip your hair of its natural oils.

Kim: Which shampoo from The Insiders would you recommend for this?

Andy: Use our Volume Shampoo, for example. This sulfate-free shampoo cleanses your hair thoroughly without excessive foam and preserves your hair’s natural oils. Additionally, it provides natural volume and makes your hair easier to style.

Kim: Some say you don’t need to use conditioner if you have a good shampoo. What do you think about that?

Andy: That’s definitely not true. Shampoo cleanses your hair, but conditioner is essential for hydrating and protecting it from damage. Even if you use an excellent shampoo, conditioner helps keep your hair soft, shiny, and easier to detangle. Always use it!

Kim: What conditioner would you advise?

Andy: That really depends on your hair and the result you want to achieve, Kim. Pair your shampoo with the matching conditioner and look carefully through our range. A complete hair care routine that nourishes and protects your hair will give you beautiful, healthy hair in the long run.

Kim: How about the myth that natural shampoos are always better?

Andy: While natural ingredients can offer benefits, it doesn’t automatically mean they are better for every hair type. It’s important to pay attention to the specific ingredients and how they react with your hair. Some natural ingredients can even be irritating for certain hair types or scalp conditions. A combination of natural and technical ingredients almost always yields the best results. We combine the best of natural and scientifically advanced ingredients in our products.

Kim: Which shampoo from The Insiders is a good example of this?

Andy: Our Protein Shampoo, for example, offers a balanced mix of natural and effective ingredients to keep your hair healthy and shiny. It’s a great product that promotes elasticity, adds shine, and strengthens your hair.

Kim: Finally, is there a difference between rinsing shampoo with cold or warm water?

Andy: Water at any temperature can effectively rinse out shampoo. The important thing is to rinse your hair thoroughly to ensure no product residue is left, which can weigh down your hair or make it look dull.

Kim: Thank you, Andy, for these enlightening insights and tips. Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Andy: Yes, remember that finding the right products and routine is really a personal journey. It can take some time to find the right products. But that time investment is definitely worth it. It’s important to listen to what your hair needs. We can help you on the path to healthier, more beautiful hair by simply getting in touch. We’d love to assist.

Kim: Thank you for your time and valuable advice, Andy.

Andy: You’re welcome!