The Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Shampoo for Your Hair Type

The shampoo market is one of the most overwhelming places in any shop. Dozens of bottles. Dozens of claims. And almost no useful guidance on which one is actually right for your hair.

The truth is that shampoo is not a one-size-fits-all product. The wrong formula, even a high-quality one, can leave your hair feeling stripped, limp, or greasy. The right one, matched to your specific hair type and scalp condition, can transform your entire routine.

We break down exactly which Paul Mitchell shampoo is formulated for your needs and why.

Step 1: Know your hair type

Before selecting a shampoo, it helps to understand where your hair sits on two key axes: texture (fine, medium, coarse) and condition (normal, oily, dry, damaged, colour-treated). Your scalp behaviour — how quickly it produces oil, is a separate consideration from your hair condition, and both matter when choosing a formula.

Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two: For fine or oily hair

Shampoo Two is formulated for hair that needs a thorough cleanse without being weighed down. It uses a gentle yet effective surfactant system that lifts oil and product build-up from the scalp while leaving fine or naturally straight hair with body and movement.

Best for: fine hair, oily scalps, those who shampoo daily, or anyone whose hair loses volume quickly after washing.

Tip: Apply directly to the scalp and work in gentle circular motions. The hair lengths rarely need as much product as the roots.

Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three: for thick, coarse, or very dry hair

Shampoo Three is a richer, more nourishing formula designed for hair that needs moisture and manageability. It contains conditioning agents that begin working during the wash, making it particularly effective for thick, textured, or chemically straightened hair.

Best for: coarse or thick hair, chemically relaxed hair, very dry hair, or those who shampoo every two to three days.

Tip: Leave the lather on for 60 to 90 seconds before rinsing to allow the conditioning agents more time to work.

Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo: for scalp health

Tea Tree Special is in a category of its own. The Australian tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender formula delivers a deep, invigorating cleanse that addresses build-up, product residue, and scalp imbalance. It is a favourite among those who use a lot of styling products or who experience mild dandruff or scalp sensitivity.

Best for: all hair types, those with product-heavy routines, those with oily or congested scalps, or anyone who wants a refreshing scalp reset.

Tip: Used once or twice a week alongside your regular shampoo, Tea Tree Special acts as a scalp treatment rather than a daily cleanser.

Paul Mitchell Platinum Plus Shampoo: for blonde, grey, or highlighted hair

Platinum Plus is a toning shampoo designed specifically for hair with cool tones. The violet pigments in the formula neutralize the yellow and brassy undertones that develop in blonde, white, grey, or heavily highlighted hair over time, keeping the colour looking fresh and salon-maintained between appointments.

Best for: blonde hair (natural or coloured), grey or silver hair, highlighted hair, or any hair that tends to go yellow or brassy.

Tip: Leave the lather on for two to five minutes before rinsing. The longer the contact time, the stronger the toning effect. Start with a shorter time and adjust based on your desired result.

A note on shampooing frequency

There is no single correct answer to how often you should shampoo. It depends on your scalp type, lifestyle, and the products you use. As a general guide: fine or oily hair benefits from washing every one to two days; thick, dry, or curly hair typically does better with less frequent washing,  every two to four days, to preserve natural oils that condition the hair shaft.

Browse the full Paul Mitchell shampoo collection → Find your match today!