Washing your hair correctly can not only improve the condition of your hair and scalp but also enhance its overall appearance. Properly washed hair stays fresh, shiny, and resilient for longer.
Healthy, shiny, and strong hair starts with the right washing routine. By washing and caring for your hair properly, you can improve both hair and scalp health. This ensures your hair stays clean longer, becomes less greasy, and retains its natural shine. Moreover, a good washing routine prevents dryness and damage, keeping your hair looking beautiful and well-maintained for longer.
The Ideal Water Temperature
Avoid washing your hair with water that is too hot, as it can dry out both your hair and the ends. While hot water cleans effectively, it also makes your hair dry and frizzy. Cold water, on the other hand, helps prevent dryness and adds shine but does not dissolve grease as well, meaning your hair may not be fully clean.
The ideal temperature for washing your hair is around 38 degrees Celsius—similar to the recommended temperature for a baby bath. After washing, rinse your hair with cooler water. This not only ensures thorough cleansing but also helps seal the hair cuticles, giving your hair extra shine.
How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?
Everyone has a different hair type: some people experience greasy hair or dandruff more quickly than others. However, the general rule is to wash your hair as little as possible. Washing less frequently helps prevent dryness, reduces oil production in the long run, and keeps dyed hair vibrant for longer. For most people, washing twice a week is sufficient.
The Best Way to Wash Your Hair
Preparation
Brush your hair before washing to reduce tangles. Wet hair is more fragile and breaks more easily, so the less you need to comb it after washing, the better. Start detangling from the ends and gradually work your way up.
Applying Shampoo
Thoroughly wet your hair before applying shampoo. Avoid using too much product—a larger amount won’t make your hair cleaner. First, rub the shampoo between your hands to create foam, allowing for even distribution.
Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips, paying extra attention to the hairline and nape. If you have long hair, avoid rubbing the ends too harshly and don’t pile your hair on top of your head—this prevents tangling and damage.
Rinsing
Take your time to rinse out the shampoo properly; this step should take longer than the washing itself. Use plenty of lukewarm water to ensure no residue is left behind. Leftover shampoo can weigh the hair down, make styling more difficult, and cause it to become greasy faster by attracting dust and dirt.
Double Washing
A golden rule: always wash your hair twice.
- The first wash cleanses: use a shampoo amount the size of a coin.
- The second wash nourishes: use only half the amount you used in the first wash.
Frequent washing does not make your hair greasy, but over-massaging the scalp or using water that is too hot can stimulate excess oil production. Avoid this to keep your hair fresh for longer.
Conditioner and Hair Masks
Always use a conditioner or hair mask after washing. If your hair gets greasy quickly, apply it only to the ends and avoid the scalp. Rinse it out thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs completely clear.
Final Rinse and Drying
Rinse your hair with cold water to seal the cuticles. This helps reduce frizz and adds extra shine. Then, gently pat your hair dry with a towel instead of rubbing it to prevent damage.
By following these steps, you can get the most out of your hair care routine and keep your hair fresh, healthy, and radiant for longer!
