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But then there are co-washes, which fall smack in the middle of the cleansing category.

Co-washes are better suited for those with more textured, curly, or thick hair types.

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Keep scrolling to learn more about the hair-care product category.

What is a co-wash?

A co-wash is aconditioner-based product that has a few cleansing surfactant ingredients in it, says Odesho.

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New York City-based hairstylist and colorist

It will essentially cleanse and condition the hair.

The idea behind co-washing is to prevent over-cleansing the hair, saysShab Reslan, a hair health expert atHairClub.

That also allows your natural scalp oils to remain in place to increase moisture in your hair.

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But, according to Odesho, a major differentiator is how much a co-wash lathers.

Shampoo usually foams a lot, while co-wash doesnt foam at all, she says.

Thats rather than a foaming cleanser, for example, which can be drying.

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As with most products, there can be too much of a good thing.

Co-washes also untangle hair better than shampoo, and help to decrease hair breakage, she says.

As far as how often to use one, it depends on your hair key in.

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New York City-based hairstylist and colorist

If youre using a co-wash in your hair-care routine, continue to use a regular shampoo, too.

Aclarifying shampoois great for the job, since it gives your scalp exfoliation.

It softens and adds loads of shine, she says.

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Its very easy to apply and you notice a difference in the balance of oils in your hair.

The cream gently gets rid of impurities and nourishes with sweet almond extract.

Its a clarifying and conditioning multi-tasker that works best on textured, thick, dry, and color-treated hair.

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Ohlmeyer loves it because it smells like a tropical vacation while keeping your hair shiny and strong.

The formula sloughs off scalp buildup while leaving your strands smooth, shiny, and frizz-free.

Its formulated to help protect your hair against external pollutants as it smooths frizz and encourages coils.

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