How to Properly Wash Your Hair: A Guide

A hair wash goes beyond simply cleaning your hair – it revitalizes and leaves you feeling refreshed. While it may seem like a straightforward task, there are recommended techniques for washing hair with shampoo and conditioner. Let's dive into the best practices for achieving a thorough and effective wash.

Why is regular wash necessary?

As noted, washing your hair regularly doesn’t require daily washing. It's best to stick to a routine of washing 2 to 3 times a week for optimal results!

Sweaty head

When you exercise, your body naturally sweats, and your scalp is usually the first to perspire. According to doctors, it's not advisable to leave your hair unwashed after a workout. Sweat contains lactic acid, which can contribute to hair loss, and DHT, which can cause scalp calcification, restricting blood flow to your hair follicles.

Using cosmetics

If you're a performer, party-goer, or simply someone who enjoys using hair gel or other cosmetics, it's important to wash your hair before going to bed. Hair products can slowly seep into your scalp overnight, clogging the pores. Additionally, it's best to avoid overloading your hair with too many products. Embracing natural hair can lead to stunning results without the need for excessive cosmetics.

Getting rid of scalp sebum buildup

Is your hair becoming greasy throughout the day? This is caused by sebum, the natural oil produced by your scalp. When sebum builds up for extended periods, it can harm your hair. High sebum levels may also indicate a deficiency in co-enzymes from the liver. Be sure to wash your hair properly to remove excess oil and maintain a healthy scalp.

Removing dead skin cells

Shampooing helps eliminate dead skin cells that would otherwise accumulate and fall off as dandruff. While shampooing too frequently can lead to a dry scalp and potentially worsen dandruff for some, washing your hair can provide relief if your scalp feels itchy. It removes those dead cells and clears away the flakes for a more comfortable feel.

Living in humid climates

Living in a humid climate can lead to an excess buildup of oil on the scalp, much like sweating every day at the gym. Regular washing helps keep your hair free from fungus and dandruff. While washing up to four times a week can be done if needed, it’s best to avoid over-washing, as it can lead to dryness and irritation of the scalp.

Here are the steps to wash your hair

• Before taking a shower, gently comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb to remove tangles and prevent damage to the hair shafts when dry.
• Wet your hair with warm water, apply shampoo, and slowly massage it through the hair, ensuring it’s worked through the entire length. Take your time to do this properly.
• Rinse your hair with cold water, stroking it downward to help seal the cuticles and maintain smoothness.
• Apply conditioner only to the tips of your hair, as instructed by beauty experts. Let it sit for five minutes to strengthen the cuticles and prevent limpness.
• Rinse out the conditioner and gently blot your hair with a towel, ensuring not to rub it too harshly, which could cause breakage.
• Treat your wet hair gently to avoid damage or weakening.
• Avoid blow-drying, as the heat can damage the structure of hair follicles, leading to roughness. Let your hair dry naturally and only blow-dry when necessary.

Tips to remember while washing your hair

Detangle hair properly

Before or during shampooing, be sure to gently detangle your hair to avoid knots. Detangling is much more difficult when hair is wet, as wet hair becomes fragile and weaker. To make it easier, divide your hair into four sections before starting.

Oil your hair well before shampooing

Our grandmothers were right to suggest applying oil before a hair wash. For best results, massage oil into your scalp and hair 2-3 hours before washing. Use natural oils like coconut, olive, or mustard to prevent harsh shampoos from stripping your hair of essential moisture.

Wet your hair well

Thoroughly rinse your hair with water before applying shampoo. Properly wet hair helps shampoo lather more effectively, allowing it to spread evenly, and you'll need less product to cleanse your hair.

Rinse with warm water first

Start with a rinse of lukewarm water to loosen excess oil and dirt. The warm water opens your pores, allowing the shampoo to penetrate deeper while helping to clear away impurities. This also prepares your hair for better conditioning by opening the cuticles for better absorption.

Don’t apply shampoo directly to hair

Instead of applying shampoo directly onto your scalp, dilute it with water for an even distribution across your hair. Simply drop a small amount of shampoo into your palm, mix it with water, and lather gently. This technique also helps prevent using more shampoo than necessary, saving both your product and hair.

Refrain from abrasive washing

Always lather gently from the roots to the tips of your hair using your fingers and palms, not your nails. Scrubbing with nails can lead to abrasions, infections, and damage, as nails often carry bacteria. Aggressive washing can cause hair breakage and loss due to the stress it places on the hair follicles. Use your fingertips for a soothing massage, and avoid harsh back-and-forth or circular motions, which can also cause tangling and weakening of your hair strands.

Don’t forget about the ends

While moisturizing the scalp is crucial, it’s equally important to give attention to the ends of your hair where damage and breakage are most likely to occur. Always start conditioning from the tips, working your way up. This allows the ends to absorb more moisture and nourishment before it reaches the scalp.

You don’t have to shampoo twice before applying conditioner

It’s a common myth that shampooing twice is necessary before conditioning. Over-shampooing can strip your hair of its natural oils, which are essential for healthy growth. Unless you’ve applied oil and need to remove residue, a single wash is sufficient for cleansing your hair and preparing it for conditioning.

Never apply conditioner on the scalp

Avoid applying conditioner directly to your scalp, as this can cause the roots to become oilier than usual. The ends of your hair are the driest part and need the most hydration. Condition from the mid-length to the tips, ensuring the ends receive a bit more product and time to absorb the moisture they need.

Wash off the conditioner with water

To lock in moisture and keep your hair smooth, rinse the conditioner with cool water. The cold temperature helps seal the cuticles, preventing excess moisture absorption and reducing frizz.

Make sure you rinse well

While saving water may seem like a good idea, it's essential to rinse your hair thoroughly. Failing to rinse properly can leave behind shampoo and conditioner residue, which over time can cause scalp issues like dandruff. Take your time to ensure that no buildup remains.

Don’t overdo with shampoo and conditioner

Frequent washing with shampoo and conditioner isn't necessary. Over-washing can strip your scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Washing 2 to 3 times a week is typically enough to maintain a healthy scalp and hair balance.

Avoid rubbing harshly

When towel-drying your hair, avoid rubbing it too vigorously. This can cause hair damage and dullness. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water or let your hair air dry naturally to minimize friction and preserve its health. Adjust your washing routine based on your hair type for optimal care.