CAH Although a pet's coat type is mainly a product of its genetic background, environment, and ongoing care, we in the pet styling industry have found that a coat's natural texture and feel can be altered to a certain extent with the use of specific shampoos and conditioners. Knowing the proper products to use starts with determining what we want to accomplish through correction or change. Human cosmetologists deal with either skin or hair. Attention must be given to each area individually without allowing one to adversely affect the other. Dry, damaged coats will benefit from a mild cleansing shampoo and a protein and emollient based conditioner.
Proteins can repair a damaged coat by helping to rebuild the cuticle of the hair shaft.
Most medicated shampoos also contain deep-cleansing additives, such as salicylic acid, which will benefit both dry and oily skin conditions. When using a medicated shampoo, be sure to condition the dry coat ends after use. Mild shampoos containing additives such as oatmeal or tea tree oil can be used to soothe irritated skin. Oils and emollients restore elasticity and prevent breakage. Additives, like color enhancers and optical brighteners, help round out the bill in coat restructuring products.