I have not tried the Pure Paws Oatmeal shampoo, just the brightening shampoo. What is the Silk?
I can see why you weren't overly impressed if all you are using is the Brightening Shampoo. When using the Brightening Shampoo, it's best to use the Oatmeal or Reconstructing Shampoo as the 2nd bath. To get the best results, follow the 3 bath formula both Ed & I have shared in the PurePaws Thread in the Vendor Section. I only do the 3 bath formula every 4-6 weeks. Otherwise, I just bathe with the Oatmeal or the Reconstructing and then condition using either the Oatmeal or Ultra Moisturizing Conditioner with the Ultra Silk Cream.
For Mercedes, this is what I would do:
Shampoo:
Oatmeal at a 50/50 dilution ratio.
Condition:
1 ounce Oatmeal Conditioner
1 ounce Ultra Silk
2-4 ounces of warm water. (You'll be able to determine if you want it weaker or stronger for next the next bath. When using previously mixed up conditioners, remember to warm it up first because all the conditioners are heat activated.
The longer you can allow the conditioners to set on the coat, the better the results. Sometimes I like to take a warm towel from the dryer and wrap them in that while the conditioner is setting. Remember to use tepid to cool water for the final rinse to seal the hair shaft.
Drying:
When the hair is almost dry while using your pin brush and stretch drying, spray a very light mist of the Ultra Shine Spray and finish drying. The Ultra Shine Spray protects the hair from heating elements and gives a nice shine to the coat. It's what I use for daily brushing and combing and is great as a detangler. I've gotten some pretty nasty matts out of customers dogs really easily with it.
The reason I really love the combination of the Oatmeal Conditioner with the Ultra Silk Cream is that they both do different things. The Oatmeal and Ultra Moisturizing Conditioner really is all you need if you don't want to add the Silk. But by adding the Silk, it gives the hair a glossy sheen and a wonderful texture. It also helps to get matts out if there are any before the bath. I really think the Silk in conjunction with the conditioners is perfect for the Maltese coat in giving it the texture, silkiness, sheen, and helps prevent both 'poufy-ness' and aides in getting a straighter coat. With a really curly coat, you need to use more of the Silk to get the hair to straighten.
Here are the links to all the products I'm suggesting fyi only. Not trying to be pushy, just helpful.:wub:
Pure Paws Oatmeal Shampoo
PurePaws Oatmeal Conditioner
PurePaws Ultra Silk Conditioner