Most of us wash our hair using shampoo and conditioner on autopilot without giving it much thought. A hair-cleansing routine is essential for your hair’s health, beauty, and wellness.
It’s not necessary to spend hours in the bathroom or buy expensive gadgets to improve your hair care routine. You can customize your hair-washing performance by selecting the right shampoo and conditioner. Learn how to wash and condition hair properly (while enjoying the process!).
What does shampoo and conditioner do for your hair?
It’s important to use shampoo and conditioner together. They have different benefits.
Shampoo cleans and purifies hair by removing dust, dirt, and product buildup from the environment. It is for this reason that your hair feels lighter after shampooing.
Conditioner smoothes and polishes the cuticle of your hair. This results in softer hair that is easier to style and comb. Conditioner is essential for rehydrating hair and counteracting the drying effects of shampoo. It is recommended that you apply conditioner every time you wash your locks.
How Should you wash your hair?
It’s easy to rush out the door in the morning and throw a handful of shampoo onto your hair. Scrub for a couple of seconds, and you’re done. It’s worth taking the time to wash and condition hair correctly. You will be rewarded with healthier, softer, and more manageable hair.
Washing your hair correctly can help you feel and look your best daily. It can be a self-care ritual with the right tools. To clean your hair correctly, follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare. Use a high-quality, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Remove all hair accessories before you shower and thoroughly comb your hair.
Step 2: Lather. Warm water is best for wetting your hair. Avoid hot water, as it can cause your hair to dry. Use a dime-sized amount of shampoo on the palm of your hands. Use a quarter-sized amount if your hair is long or thick. Apply the shampoo from the nape to the crown, starting at your neck. Gently scrub your scalp with the shampoo.
Step #3: Massage. Step #3: Massage. This is important for healthy circulation and to promote faster hair growth. After cleaning your scalp, apply the lather to your mid-shafts, ends, and hairline.
Step 4: Rinse. Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm, sterile water. This step is essential, so take your time! You’re ready to go when the water is crystal clear.
Step #5: Repetition. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 if you do not wash your hair daily.
Step #6: Conditioner. Apply a quarter-sized quantity of conditioner to your mid-strands and ends. Squeeze excess water out of your hair. Use a wet brush or comb to comb the conditioner into your hair. Leave it on for 5 minutes and then rinse.
Step #7: Cool rinse. Rinse your hair with cool water. This will seal the cuticle, boosting your hair’s natural shine.
Step #8: Dry. Squeeze excess water from your hair using your hands after your shower. After patting your hair with a microfiber towel or soft cotton tee-shirt, use your wide-toothed comb to remove tangles. Blow-dry or air-dry your hairstyle as desired.
How many times a week should you wash your hair?
It is essential to wash your hair regularly to keep your scalp, hair, and skin clean and healthy. Even those with curly, super-dry hair must periodically remove dirt and other impurities. The “no-poo” method may not be the best idea.
The frequency with which you wash your hair will depend on the type of hair, its texture, and your personal preferences. You can use the suggestions below as a starting point and adjust them until you find an effective hair-washing routine.
If you have fine hair that is limp or oily, wash it every two days.
If you have hair in between that’s neither super dry nor super oily or straight hair that has been chemically or heat-damaged, you should wash it every 2 to 3 days.
If you have thick, curly hair or waves, wash your hair every three to four days.
If you have curly, textured, or dry hair, wash your hair only once a week.
Hair between washes should be soft, clean, and manageable. You can let your roots be a little greasy the night before washing them (wear hats and dry shampoo!) You should not, however, have dandruff on your scalp or itchiness.
Try experimenting with the frequency of your hair washing until you find what works best for you.
What is the best way to wash and condition all hair types?
Each hair type is different, so your shampoo regimen should also be! Even small changes to your haircare routine can make a massive difference in the appearance and feel of your hair. Discover the best way to wash and treat your hair based on its type.
Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly Hair
Curly hair can be dehydrated because it is harder for the oils to penetrate the shaft. It’s still important to wash your curly hair regularly to keep your scalp clean and to remove pollutants.
Consider using a sulfate-free shampoo every week. (Or every 2 to 3 weeks for coils that are tighter.) Followed by a conditioner rich in nutrients. Try co-washing your hair, which is simply washing your hair with water and conditioner. This will keep your hair clean and fresh between shampoos.
Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry, Damaged hair
Avoid ALL products that contain harsh chemicals, such as sulfates and parabens. Alcohol is also a drying chemical. Wash your hair at least twice a week. (More often if you have naturally oily hair and less often if it is naturally dry.)
Apply conditioner to your hair from the midshafts down to the ends. Let it soak in for at least five minutes. Use conditioner both before and after shampooing if your hair is dehydrated. Remember to deep condition your hair every week!
