Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo Review + 9 Best Alternatives

If you are looking for a Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo Review or you want to know more about anti-residue shampoos, you’ve come to the right place. 

In this article, we’ll first tackle what anti-residue, purifying, and clarifying shampoos are. Then, we’ll give an in-depth review of Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo. We’ll look closely at its ingredients, uses, and side effects. Last, we’ll explore other clarifying shampoo alternatives available on Amazon today.

Anti-Residue, Purifying, and Clarifying Shampoo

What is Anti-Residue Shampoo?

Anti-Residue Shampoo is also called Residue-free, Clarifying, or Purifying Shampoo. This type of Shampoo has a more potent formula for deep cleansing the scalp and hair. It is meant for occasional use, usually after using large amounts of hair serums and treatments or after swimming in chlorinated pools. 

Regular shampoo or Coconut oil can clean our scalp and hair. However, these cannot remove dirt, oil, dead skin, mineral buildup, and product remnants that accumulate over time. All of these become residues that make hair greasy and limp. Sometimes, it also causes dandruff and hair fall. 

Anti-Residue or Clarifying Shampoo lifts even the most stubborn residues, leaving the scalp and hair not only thoroughly clean and fresh but also making the hair lighter, smoother, bouncier, and shinier. 

How do I know if my Shampoo is Clarifying? 

To know whether your shampoo is Anti-Residue, Clarifying, or Purifying, look for the following:

First, check the product label. It must explicitly say it is Anti-Residue, Residue-Free, Clarifying, or Purifying Shampoo. 

Second, examine the ingredients. Regular Shampoos often use cleansing detergents like sulfates. While Clarifying Shampoos use surfactants. Some examples of surfactants are: 

• Ammonium-sodium lauryl sulfate
• Chloride or bromide (or derivatives of these two)
• Cetyl-fatty alcohols

Last, see the water content. Clarifying shampoos usually have a higher water content that makes them easy to rinse off, so they won’t leave any gunk in your hair.

Anti-Residue vs. Detoxifying Shampoo

Clarifying or Anti-Residue Shampoo relies on synthetic components to provide its signature deep cleanse. Detoxifying Shampoo works the same but uses natural ingredients instead of synthetic formulas.

Clarifying Shampoo vs. Dandruff Shampoo

Clarifying Shampoos are made for deep cleansing, not for treating dandruff. Unless the Clarifying Shampoo has ingredients that help control dandruff, you should stick with dedicated Dandruff Shampoo to stop flaking.

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo Overview

Who is Neutrogena?

Neutrogena is a well-recognized and trusted American skin and hair care brand that creates high-quality products for all skin and hair types. This company has been considered one of the pillars of the hair and skin care industry for over 90 years! One of their best-selling products is the Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo.

What is Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo?

The Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo is Amazon’s best-seller in the Clarifying and Anti-Residue Shampoo category. As a matter of fact, it has sold more than 8,000 products. 

This Anti-Residue Shampoo claims to be tough on impurities but gentle and non-irritating on the scalp and hair. It is formulated to remove up to 90% of heavy residues from shampoos, conditioners, and other styling products that make hair flat and dull. 

Aside from deep cleansing, this Clarifying Shampoo aims to offer the following hair benefits as well:

• Enhance hair volume by rinsing away buildup
• Strip away hair discoloration caused by hair styling products
• Gentle on color-treated treated hair

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo Ingredients

Sodium Laureth Sulfate

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) is a widely used detergent or surfactant made from palm kernel oil or coconut oil. It is often found on shampoos, cleaning products, and other personal care items. It combines with the grease and dirt on your scalp and hair, making them easy to rinse.

SLES has recently been under scrutiny because of its potential health risks. SLES can irritate the skin and the eyes. It can also be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen that can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, where it can cause organ damage. 

Other Surfactants and Cleansing Agents

The other surfactants that act as foaming and cleansing agents found in Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo are Cocamidopropyl Betaine, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, and Sodium Hydroxide.

Other Ingredients

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo also contains the following ingredients:

• Propylene Glycol is a synthetic compound that helps your scalp absorb all the ingredients by attracting and locking in moisture to your scalp.
• Glycerin draws moisture and helps hydrate your hair.
• Sodium Chloride or table salt in the formula to enhance the viscosity of the Shampoo.
• Citric Acid helps reduce hair’s pH, making it less frizzy or more manageable.
• DMDM Hydantoin an additive that prevents spoilage and preserves your Shampoo.

How to Use Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo?

Apply the Shampoo on wet hair and massage it throughout the hair and scalp. Please start with the scalp and roots going towards the ends, then rinse it thoroughly. Use the Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo once a week.

Neutrogena Shampoo for Dreadlocks

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo is suitable not only for natural hair but also for washing protective hairstyles like dreadlocks. 

Dreadlocks are unique and stylish hairstyles that require constant upkeep. Due to how they’re bound, dreadlocks easily trap dirt, buildup, and residue and can lead to stinky and moldy hair. Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo formula can deeply clean, help eliminate contaminants, and keep dreadlocks clean and fresh. 

How to Use Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo on Dreadlocks

1. Wet your dreadlocks and scalp well.
2. Add some Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo to your hands. 
3. Massage it to your scalp gently but thoroughly with your fingertips.
4. Work it gently on your hair as well. 
5. Rinse with lots of water. Let the shampoo flow through your dreadlocks and avoid touching new locks as much as possible to preserve their shape and style.
6. For those with mature dreadlocks, you can opt to squeeze them to wring out the Neutrogena shampoo.
7. Repeat the entire process once more or until satisfied.

Where to buy Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo?

The Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo is available on Amazon.

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo Reviews

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo is one of Amazon’s best sellers for a reason. The majority of its users agree that this Clarifying Shampoo works. They love the scent and how this Shampoo leaves their scalp and hair clean, fresh, and bouncy. Most people with dreadlocks who use Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo are also satisfied.

That said, it is essential to remember that not because it works for many, it is automatically suitable for all. Some users reported that this Clarifying Shampoo makes their hair fall out. Others find that it can be a bit drying if used too often. 

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo Side Effects

There are no adverse side effects directly linked to Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo. However, like all Clarifying Shampoos, users should be wary of overuse, which can cause dryness, dullness, irritation, and sometimes hair fall.  

The sulfates in Clarifying Shampoos can also cause adverse effects on people with sensitive scalps or allergies. Also, this Clarifying shampoo has DMDM hydantoin that releases negligible amounts of Formaldehyde. That said, it is important to note that exposure to large quantities of Formaldehyde over time can cause skin, eye, nose, and throat irritation. It can also lead to cancer. 

Use Clarifying Shampoos only when necessary, like washing dreadlocks, removing buildup, or stripping hair color.

Recent Updates Regarding Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo

The company discontinued the production of Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo, but it is very much still available on Amazon today. 

Bottomline

To summarize this Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo review, I would say that while this Clarifying Shampoo works well for most users, the product formula can use some improvements to minimize potential irritation and health risks. 

If you’re looking for Anti-Residue Shampoo alternatives, read on to learn more about the best-rated Clarifying Shampoos on the market. 

10 Best Rated Clarifying Shampoo Reviewed

Here are the best Clarifying and Anti-Residue Shampoos to deeply clean your scalp and hair, as well as protective hairstyles like dreadlocks and microlocs. 

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Best Clarifying Shampoo for Dry Hair

#1 Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo

Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo Review:

People with dry hair have difficulty finding the ideal Clarifying Shampoo because most shampoos will only worsen matters. If that’s you, then you don’t have to struggle anymore. The Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo, 8.5 oz is hands down the best Clarifying Shampoo for dry hair.

The Shampoo features fantastic ingredients that clean and hydrate your hair and scalp. The Shampoo uses Lavender, Chamomile, Avocado, and Rosemary extracts for cleaning purposes. While Keratin, Jojoba seed extract, and Argan oil will moisturize and strengthen your dry hair.

Many users are also satisfied with how effectively this Clarifying Shampoo removes impurities from using hard water. The hair feels clean and soft right after every wash.

How to Use

Apply the Shampoo on the wet scalp and hair. Add enough, but not too much, water to get the best out of each ingredient. Rinse it off thoroughly.

Pros: 

• Formulated to cleanse and moisturize scalp and hair deeply
• Contains high-quality natural ingredients
• Excellent customer feedback

Cons: This Clarifying Shampoo is a little pricey. 

Bottom line: If you need a Clarifying Shampoo to remove the impurities from hard water and provide moisture to your dry hair, then Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo is what you need. 

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Best Shampoo for 4c Low Porosity or Fine Hair

#2 Pattern Clarifying Shampoo

Pattern Clarifying Shampoo Review: 

Curly and kinky hair types require more hairstyling products, often leading to hair buildup. At the same time, they are more prone to dryness and breakage. That is why it is essential to use a Clarifying Shampoo explicitly formulated for type 3 and 4 hair. 

The Pattern Clarifying Shampoo is an incredible option for everyone with curly hair. It does all the necessary deep cleansing without affecting stripping hair’s natural oils and moisture. 

This Clarifying Shampoo for curly hair does the job using keenly selected ingredients. It does not contain Sulfates, Parabens, Phthalates, and Formaldehyde. Instead, it uses gentle yet effective cleansing alternatives like Tea tree leaf oil, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, and Sodium Hydroxide, among others. 

It also has Aloe Vera, Coconut oil, and Honey to keep the curls and coil hydrated and healthy. 

How to Use

Massage the Shampoo onto your freshly cleaned hair and scalp thoroughly, then rinse it. Follow it with a conditioner.

Pros: 

• Formulated for curly hair
• Uses gentle and non-stripping cleansing ingredients
• Contains natural ingredients that hydrate and nourish hair
• Color-safe
• Free of Sulfates, Parabens, Phthalates, and Formaldehyde

Cons: It comes in small bottles.

Bottom line: The Pattern Clarifying Shampoo is an excellent Clarifying Shampoo that deep cleans and hydrates low-porosity hair. 

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 All-Natural & Sulfate-Free: Best Vegan Clarifying Shampoo

#3 Avalon Organics Clarifying Lemon Shampoo

 

Avalon Organics Clarifying Lemon Shampoo Review:

The Avalon Organics Clarifying Lemon Shampoo is an excellent choice for an all-natural, gentle, deep cleanser. This EWG-certified Shampoo is sulfate-free, non-GMO, vegan-friendly, biodegradable, and free from synthetic fragrances and parabens that can cause irritation and health risks.

The Avalon Organics Clarifying Lemon Shampoo, 11 oz. (Pack of 2) contains powerful natural ingredients like Lemon essential oil, Vitamin E, Quinoa protein, and Aloe Vera. Not only do these ingredients exfoliate residues, but they go as far as hydrating your hair, giving it a great glow.

How to Use

Massage the Shampoo gently throughout your wet hair and scalp. Rinse it off and then follow it with a Lemon Clarifying Conditioner.

Pros: 

• Gentle and hydrating formula
• Contains all-natural deep cleansing and nourishing ingredients
• Excellent customer feedback
• Affordable.

Cons: Some find the lemon scent overpowering for them.

Bottom line: If you are looking for an affordable all-natural Anti-Residue Shampoo that will remove impurities and restore your hair’s natural texture and shine, then Avalon Organics Clarifying Lemon Shampoo is a great buy. 

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Best Clarifying Shampoo for Sensitive Scalp

#4 Head & Shoulders Supreme Detox & Hydrate

 

Head & Shoulder Supreme Detox & Hydrate Shampoo Review:

The Head & Shoulder Supreme Detox & Hydrate Shampoo is a dermatologically-recommended shampoo primarily formulated to purify and nourish the scalp to allow hair to grow strong and healthy. 

It uses gentle cleansing and hydrating ingredients like Coconut water and Argan oil to detoxify the scalp of impurities and moisturize the hair simultaneously. The Head & Shoulder Supreme Detox & Hydrate Shampoo is free of potential irritants like Parabens, Phosphates, Dyes, Ethanol, and Phthalates. 

In addition to cleaning your hair, this Head & Shoulders Detox and Hydrate Shampoo 11.8 Fl Oz Twin Pack has 1% Pyrithione Zinc, an ingredient that effectively gets rid of dandruff.

How to Use

Use this Shampoo on wet hair. Massage it throughout your hair and scalp, and then rinse it off. It would help if you used this Shampoo whenever you want to remove dandruff effectively.

Pros: 

• Dermatologically-recommended Detox Shampoo
• Gentle cleansing and hydrating formula for the scalp and hair
• Contains 1% Pyrithione Zinc to help fight dandruff

Cons: This Detox Shampoo contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate. 

Bottomline: if you are looking for a Clarifying Shampoo that targets the overall health of your scalp, then The Head & Shoulder Supreme Detox & Hydrate Shampoo is an excellent option. 

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Best Clarifying Shampoo for Oily Hair

#5 Acure Curiously Clarifying Shampoo

Acure Curiously Clarifying Shampoo Review:

The Acure Curiously Clarifying Shampoo is a gentle shampoo that can be used daily, although I highly advise you to use it twice to thrice a week to avoid over-stripping of natural oils in your hair.

This Shampoo is free of parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, and Formaldehyde. It is also cruelty-free and vegan-friendly.

The Acure Curiously Clarifying Shampoo contains acai, blackberry, pomegranate, avocado, and lavender oils. These provide gentle but super-effective cleaning. This clarifying Shampoo can remove gels, pomades, and other heavy styling products that you apply on your hair. The ACURE Curiously Clarifying Shampoo - 8 Fl Oz - Performance-Driven Hair Care Gently Cleanses, Removes Buildup, Boosts Shine & Replenishes Moisture - Lemongrass & Argan, 100% Vegan also hydrates and moisturize the scalp and hair lightly.

How to Use

Apply it on wet hair, massage it throughout the hair and scalp, and wash it off thoroughly.

Pros:

• The gentle clarifying formula for oily hair
• Suitable for all hair types, including curly and coily hair
• Contains effective natural ingredients
• Free of irritants and additives
• Affordable

Cons: It is difficult to spot a con for this product. That said, not because it works for the majority of its users, it automatically works for all. There are still a few who said that this Clarifying Shampoo did not meet their expectations when it comes to removing buildup.

Bottom line: If you have extremely oily hair and you need a Clarifying Shampoo to remove oil buildup on almost a daily basis, then you should give this Acure Curiously Clarifying Shampoo a try. It is gentle yet potent enough to tackle your specific hair problem. Lastly, it is suitable even for textured hair types. 

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Best Clarifying Shampoo for Dandruff

#6 Sachajuan Anti-Pollution Shampoo

Sachajuan Anti-Pollution Shampoo Review:

Think about it, every time you step out of the house; your hair comes into contact with all sorts of pollutants ranging from dirt, smoke, smog, etc. These will accumulate on your scalp, making your hair lose its color and look.

The SACHAJUAN Scalp Shampoo, 8.4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) has the best formula for a healthy scalp in this list. It is formulated with Salicylic acid to shed off dead skin cells and Lactic acid to regulate oil production in the scalp. The other ingredients, such as Ginger extract and Rosemary oil, soothe scalp irritation and fortify hair and protect it against impurities.

Besides protecting your scalp and hair against pollution, this Shampoo also helps improve your hair’s manageability.

How to Use

Apply the Shampoo on the wet scalp and hair and massage it gently before rinsing it off.

Pros: 

• Formulated to promote a healthy scalp and fight dandruff
• Contains ingredients that regulate oil production and soothe scalp irritation
• Excellent user feedback

Cons: This Clarifying Shampoo is a little pricey compared to other products in this list.

Bottomline: If your hair is exposed to pollutants daily, then the Sachajuan Shampoo has the perfect formula for your hair.

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Best Shampoo for Stripping Hair Colour

#7 L’Oreal Paris Hair Care Colorista Reset Shampoo

L’Oreal Paris Hair Care Colorista Reset Shampoo Review:

This Clarifying Shampoo is made specifically for stripping hair color. While it’s lighter and gentler than other clarifying shampoos, you can still expect a thorough wash with L’Oreal Paris Hair Care Colorista Reset Shampoo.

However, its main draw – color removal – isn’t a definite result. Customers have indicated mixed reviews, ranging from complete color removal to hair bleaching to no results at all.

Pros:

• Clarifying Shampoos formulated to fade hair color
• Smells great

Cons: Can take roughly six washes to see results, made specifically to remove L’Oreal Colorista Semi-Permanent colors, can bleach hair, doesn’t lather well

Bottom line: If you like experimenting with L’Oreal’s Colorista product line, this clarifying Shampoo is definitely for you. The catch – it only works flawlessly with Colorista colors.

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Best Clarifying Shampoo and Conditioner 

#8 Herbal Essences Clarifying Shampoo & Conditioner

 

Herbal Essences Clarifying Shampoo and Purifying Conditioner Review:

Herbal Essences Clarifying Shampoo is a light shampoo with a very rich lather. Made without silicone or mineral oil, this clarifying Shampoo harnesses the power of tea tree oil and jasmine to remove any buildup from your hair and give it weightless volume.

The accompanying conditioner helps keep your hair moisturized and healthy after the Shampoo’s thorough cleanse.

Pros:

• Low synthetic material content
• Formulated to regulate oil production
• Safe for color-treated hair

Cons: This Clarifying Shampoo and Conditioner is not ideal for curly and coily hair types.

Bottom line: This clarifying Shampoo is excellent for people with adverse reactions to mineral oil or silicones. It’s complemented by a nice (some say overpowering) tea tree scent that leaves your hair feeling citrusy and airy.

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Best Budget Clarifying Shampoo

#9 Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream

Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo Review:

This affordable Shampoo gives even Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo a run for its money. Offering all that a clarifying shampoo can do without the high price tag, Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo is widely endorsed by its many happy customers.

Pros: 

• Affordable
• Gentle cleansing formula
• Suitable for color-treated hair
• Safe to use on permed hair

Cons: Too much use of this Clarifying Shampoo can quickly dry hair.

Bottom line: Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream Clarifying Shampoo is best described as simple but effective. The scalp and hair instantly feel lighter after use. This Shampoo has no particular standout features (aside from a somewhat harsh orange cleanser smell, according to some) – which means that it works like a charm.

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FAQs About Neutrogena Anti-Residue Clarifying Shampoo

Is Neutrogena anti-residue shampoo sulfate-free?

Neutrogena isn’t sulfate-free. One of its primary cleansing agents is Sodium Laureth Sulfate. Sulfates are potent cleansing agents and should be used occasionally as it causes dry scalp and brittle hair. If you want a sulfate-free shampoo, try Dr. Hempster Anti Hair Loss Shampoo.

Does Neutrogena anti-residue shampoo have Formaldehyde?

Neutrogena is formaldehyde-free. It uses other cleansing agents to remove oil and dirt from your scalp and hair.

Is Neutrogena anti-residue Shampoo a clarifying shampoo?

When it comes to their use, anti-residue shampoos work the same as clarifying shampoos. They provide more intense cleaning and can remove scalp buildup and other hair product residue.

Do you use conditioner after Neutrogena anti-residue shampoo?

Because anti-residue shampoos are powerful cleansers, they can remove even your hair’s natural oils. That’s why it is essential to use a deep conditioner to bring back moisture and prevent your hair from drying.

Does Neutrogena anti-residue shampoo strip color?

Neutrogena anti-residue shampoo can effectively remove dirt and buildup without stripping your hair color. The ingredients used in its formula will not bleach or lighten your hair like hydrogen peroxide, or strong acids will do.

Does Neutrogena anti-residue Shampoo cause hair loss?

Some users report hair loss after using Neutrogena regularly. Because of their potent formula, clarifying shampoos are not meant for daily use. If you need a shampoo that you can use daily, check out hair care products that have Capixyl.

Is Neutrogena Shampoo Good for Hair Loss?

Neutrogena can help remove product buildup and dandruff that sometimes cause hair loss. If this is the leading cause of hair loss, clarifying anti-residue shampoos like Neutrogena can help. 

FAQs About Anti-Residue Clarifying Shampoo

Does Redken have DMDM hydantoin?

Redken doesn’t use DMDM hydantoin.

Does Maui Shampoo have DMDM hydantoin?

Maui Shampoo doesn’t have DMDM hydantoin.

Is T Gel a clarifying shampoo?

No, it is not. T-Gel Shampoo is an anti-inflammatory shampoo that helps deal with auto-immune skin disorders like seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis.

Does Olaplex have a clarifying shampoo?

While it’s not exactly a clarifying shampoo, Olaplex bond 4 works just like a clarifying shampoo.

Is Head And Shoulders a clarifying shampoo?

Yes, some Head and Shoulders shampoos are classified as clarifying shampoos.

Is Mane And Tail a clarifying shampoo?

Yes, Mane and Tail Brand has Mane and Tail Gentle Clarifying Shampoo. As its name suggests, it’s a gentle clarifying shampoo that cleans your hair and washes out residue from other hair products or contaminants. Mane and Tail Gentle Clarifying Shampoo also doesn’t dry your scalp or leave your hair frizzy.