Hairdressers say: "all shampoos are not the same!"

Hairdressers have hit out at a recent article in the Daily Mail claiming all shampoos are the same.

The article quotes American beauty expert, Paula Begoun as saying: Said Luke Walton, international artistic director at Scottish chain Rainbow Room International: "There is absolutely no difference between expensive shampoos and inexpensive ones, and I say that unequivocally. All ingredients to clean and condition the hair are the same, regardless of the product."

Those readers HJ spoke to believed the article was extremely misleading. "If you bought a pure cashmere cardigan, you wouldn't wash it in washing up liquid so why should your hair be any different?  Hair is the ultimate accessory and should be cared for and treated this way.  Professional products have higher quality and purer ingredients, meaning you actually use less product in the long run.  Although professional products are more expensive, they are more economic and will last much longer, and make such a difference to the condition of your hair.   It's important to remember you get what you pay for, never underestimate the value of professional haircare."

Said Jo Minihane, Real Hair&Beauty, Tunbridge Wells: "The problem is that consumers have no knowledge where the ingredients have been sourced and how, which is very important. Yes, many of the shampoos you buy have the same top six ingredients but of different qualities and sourced with varying ethics. I like to know where my ingredients are sourced so I look for a soil to bottle policy so I know how, where and when that certain ingredient was picked or grown."

Commented Carl Mitchell Owner of Bonce Salons: "What makes professional shampoos unique to high street alternatives are their built in technologies and unique ingredient content which helps to protect, condition and nourish hair, whilst prolonging colour. After speaking to several of my clients today, to see their thoughts behind the article, even they admitted that they can tell a huge difference between the standard of a high street shampoo and a professional alternative - that the professional shampoo makes the condition and appearance of their hair much better."

Paul Simbler, HOB Salons director said: "With substantial money allocated to research and development of professional product ranges, professional hair care is sure to deliver premium results. With products tried and tested and thorough research carried out before it hits the shelf, these ranges give clients and hairdressers alike a range that can be trusted to deliver what it states on the package. With superior quality ingredients in each and every product, professional haircare sets a definite standard in hair retail."

Said Dawn Lawrence, Q Hair and Beauty, Chichester: "How many shampoos are never used, or styling product thrown away because the customer chose the wrong one in the supermarket?  Our industry understands its clients need, and our education enables us to facilitate part of the buying process. Our retail sector has never been stronger."