You know how amazing your hair feels (and looks, for that matter) when you leave the salon? That's because the pros know the perfect method for washing your locks. Well, mirroring their techniques could make a world of difference when it comes to your hair's health, bounce and shine. The trouble is, if you're not washing your hair correctly (we all make very common mistakes), you could be damaging your locks without even realising it.
So, instead of jumping in the shower and washing your tresses in 60 seconds or less, why not follow these seven tips on how to wash your hair like the pros and transform your mane.
1. Getting The Water Temperature Right
When it comes to washing your hair correctly, it’s essential to avoid using water that's too hot. You see, if the water is too warm, it will over-stimulate the sebum glands on your scalp, causing them to produce excess oil. Essentially, use water that is too hot and you’ll be left with greasy roots!
2. Using The Right Amount Of Shampoo
As it turns out, most of us are using too much shampoo, so remember to portion control. Pop a 10p-sized amount of shampoo into the palm of your hand and rub your hands together. When it starts to lather, gently massage it into your scalp.
You also want to avoid shampooing too vigorously as this can damage and weaken your hair. To prevent this, apply shampoo using your fingertips and palms, never your nails.
3. Shampoo, Rinse, Repeat
Here’s another golden rule: if you're not washing your hair daily, applying shampoo twice is usually better. Whilst the first shampoo works to remove any dirt and grease, the second will penetrate the hair shaft and give your hair what it needs, be it hydration or volume.
4. The Truth About Lather
If you're using a high quality or non-sulfate shampoo, keep in mind that it might not produce as much lather as you expect – and you really shouldn’t apply more of it to get that foaminess. Whilst we’re predisposed to associate foam with cleanliness, the lathering effect of shampoo actually serves no purpose. Yep, really. It's created by sulfates and, if anything, can be damaging.
5. How To Properly Condition Your Hair
After shampooing, you should always use a conditioner. Before applying it, though, make sure that you squeeze any excess water from your hair first, as this will dilute the formula and stop it being as effective. I’d recommend drying it slightly with a towel.
You should also only apply conditioner to your mid-lengths and ends as it does absolutely nothing for your scalp, other than clog your pores.
6. Try To Use Higher Quality Ingredients
When it comes to haircare, we're fully behind using the highest quality products you can afford (although this doesn't mean you need to break the bank). Trust us, it does make a difference. Professional haircare contains higher quality ingredients, more advanced technology, and fewer nasties. On the other end of the spectrum, lower quality formulas tend to leave a 'plastic' coating on the hair which fools us to think our locks are super shiny, when in fact they have actually created a barrier that's preventing any good ingredients getting in!7. Choose The Right Haircare For Your Hair Type
It's also imperative that you use the right product for your hair type. Why? Because if you use one that's designed for damaged hair when your hair isn't damaged, it just results in heavy, weighed down locks and lots of leftover residue. In fact, the majority of the UK population use an anti-dandruff formula when they don't need to be. The result? A very dry scalp.
To give you a helping hand, I’ve rounded up the best formulas to use for your hair type...
Dry Hair
If your hair tends to be a little on the dry side, it's time to give it some TLC before it becomes really damaged. Using a hair mask as part of your routine will help to restore moisture, whilst adding a hydrating shampoo and conditioner to your bathroom line up will ensure that your mane is given a moisture boost every time you wash.
I’d recommend the Aveda Dry Remedy Masque. It will intensely moisturise dehydrated, weak hair, reviving brittle strands and leaving them soft, supple and healthy.
Oily Hair
If it’s oiliness that you struggle with, try using a scalp exfoliator once a week. It will remove dead skin cells and product build-up, leaving your hair fresh and clean. It will also prevent your scalp from getting clogged and producing excess sebum.
I’d recommend Kérastase Chronologiste Revitalising Exfoliating Care. It will gently massage and exfoliate your hair, whilst ridding each strand of built up grime and dirt.
Fine Hair
A lot of women with fine hair often avoid using conditioner altogether as they feel that it weighs the hair down, but you're actually not doing your locks any favours! Instead, choose a very light or volumising conditioner and apply it sparingly to the lengths and ends of your hair.
I’d recommend the Redken High Rise Volume Lifting Conditioner. Its volumising formula works to lift fine, flat, lifeless hair.
Damaged Hair
A deep conditioning mask is your damaged tresses’ new BFF. If your hair is feeling a little worse for wear and in need of immediate repair, opting for a 5-minute protein-rich treatment once a week will strengthen them and prevent any snapping.
I’d recommend the Moroccanoil Restorative Hair Mask. It is a revitalising treatment that nourishes, rebuilds strength and restores hair's elasticity.
Follow these simple rules about washing your hair correctly and you’ll have salon-worthy tresses every day!
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