Lather, Rinse and Reap Savings on Shampoo and Conditioner -- Savings Experiment

When it comes to shampoo and conditioner, there are tons of items to choose from, but when you're trying to save money, which is your best option?

Salon Shampoos vs. Drugstore Brands
Many drugstores carry aisles of shampoo, but do they work just as well as their more expensive counterparts? Dr. Zoe Draelos, a consulting professor of dermatology at Duke University and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, says yes. In an interview with the L.A. Times, the doctor confirms that salon shampoos and drugstore products have the same cleansing properties, so all you're really paying for is the different fragrances and packaging.

Hairstylist Angel Vee agrees. She writes, "Through my experiences I have tried so many shampoos from very expensive bottles to the cheapest bottles, just to see how much of a difference there really is. Honestly, I can say that the ones I found worked the best were the generic brands."

Of course, many claim that generic shampoos are watered down, which can cause you to use twice as much as you would if you were using a brand name product. It really comes down to your hair type and preference. Everyone's hair is different, so at the end of the day, you should use what works for you, and doing so will keep you from overspending on hair care.

Two-in-One Products
Using a shampoo and conditioner in one can save you some money. According to Dr. Matt Leavitt, president of the Hair Foundation and medical director of Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery, the two-in-ones on the market are just as effective as using a separate shampoo and conditioner.

For instance, Pantene's Pro-V Classic Care shampoo and conditioner (25.4 fluid ounces size) cost $6.99 each at Drugstore.com. Purchasing both will cost you $13.98. Meanwhile, you can get a 33.8 fluid ounce bottle of Pantene's Pro-V Classic 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner on the site for just $8.99, and you'll save time by only having to go through one rinse.

Save by Shampooing Less
However, if you really want to save, shampoo less. Dr. Draelos adds that people generally don't need to shampoo every day, unless they have particularly oily scalps, and the "repeat" recommendation on many shampoo bottles is unnecessary. Your scalp's natural oils are the best conditioner, and super-clean hair can get frizzy and be hard to style.

So, when it comes to your tresses, keep these tips in mind and use what works for you. Finding the best products and routine for your hair will ultimately help you save both time and money.