Micellar shampoos: what is it, how do they work and who needs it

Micellar shampoos are a new generation of regular daily shampoos that offer gentle cleansing of the scalp and hair, remove impurities like their "brothers" and are suitable for almost everyone. We tell you what you need to know about them and what means to use.

The need for frequent shampooing has created a demand for delicate hair care products that are suitable for constant use. These are soft, gentle, almost pure formulas that allow you to normalize the hydro-lipid balance and are designed for daily cleansing. So, a whole segment of products appeared on the market, including various co-washing products and sulfate-free shampoos.

On the same wave, another know-how was successfully formed – micellar shampoos. The advantage of these remedies is that they are universal and have virtually no contraindications (unless you are allergic to the substances in their composition). Let’s see how good they are.

What is micellar shampoo

Micellar shampoo is a daily hair cleanser with micelles (the same oily particles found in micellar water). These double microscopic molecules consist of a hydrophilic (water-soluble) head and a hydrophobic tail. The first loves water, the second loves fats. Together they act like magnets, effectively drawing out dirt and impurities. The task of micelles is to capture fat molecules and dissolve it.

“Micelles are a combination of surfactants. They interact with both oil and water, which means that when they are washed out, they leave the hair cleaner than ever," says Christian Pinyatta, Senior Stylist at Neville Hair & Beauty.

Micellar shampoos are very mild, do not dry the skin and hair, so they can be used every day. They act delicately and are considered gentle. At the same time, they have good cleansing properties, perfectly wash the roots and nourish the main length. Once will be enough, the second application – according to need and personal feelings. 

“In some ways, they are similar to clarifying shampoos because their main job is to remove sebum and impurities that build up on the surface of the hair and scalp,” celebrity hairstylist Jason Collier explains.

“But, unlike clarifying shampoos, micellar formulas can be used every day to prevent buildup; clarifying shampoos should only be used once a week and should never be used on color-treated hair,” he adds.

How do they work and who are they suitable for?

Micellar shampoos are suitable for almost all hair types, because everyone needs protection from toxins and the negative effects of the environment. They do not contain silicones and sulfates, which makes them ideal for daily washing and a godsend for owners of dyed strands.

“Micellar shampoos are designed to cleanse all types of daily dirt on the scalp and hair. They contain micelles that attract all external contaminants like a magnet, gently cleanse the remains of styling, excessive and daily secretions of the scalp, leaving a feeling of cleanliness and taking care of the hair,” says Maxim Zotov, technologist of the Redken brand.

These shampoos are usually oil-free, so they have a light texture that doesn’t weigh hair down. Depending on the purpose, their formulas can be enhanced with UV filters, enterosorbents, antioxidants and plant extracts. Just like sulfate-free shampoos, micelle products do not form a thick and lush foam, so they must first be shaken with water in the palms of your hands or use slightly cool water. The main foaming agent can be, for example, soaproot extract. 

Micellar shampoo may not be suitable for those who are allergic to any of the components in the composition. Otherwise, it is a completely universal remedy for the whole family. If you want to try micellar shampoo, here are the products to get you started.