How to wash your hair properly: shampoo, conditioner and rinsing

How to wash your hair properly: shampoo, conditioner and rinsing

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Washing your hair properly means cleansing the scalp and caring for the lengths without unnecessary scrubbing. This complete shampoo and conditioner routine can be adapted to your hair and the products you use.

Choose products for your hair and scalp

Choose shampoo for your cleansing needs and conditioner for the care your lengths need. Fine hair may need lighter conditioning than dry or curly hair. Consider the whole formula and your experience; a sulfate-free or silicone-free label alone does not guarantee gentleness.

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1. Detangle gently

Loosen knots from the ends and work upwards without pulling. Straight hair can often be combed before washing, while curls may be easier to detangle wet with conditioner. Use your fingers or a suitable tool; a dry-hair brush is not automatically best for wet hair.

2. Wet your hair thoroughly

Wet both the scalp and hair with comfortably lukewarm water. Separate dense hair into sections so water reaches inside. A cold final rinse is optional, not essential. Read more about water temperature when washing hair.

3. Apply shampoo to the scalp

Follow the product instructions for the amount and any contact time. Spread shampoo over the scalp, including the nape and behind the ears, and massage gently with fingertips rather than nails. Avoid piling the lengths on your head or vigorously scrubbing the ends.

4. Rinse thoroughly and assess a second wash

Rinse out the shampoo completely, letting the water run through the lengths. Check dense hair and the nape for residue. A second shampoo application may suit substantial oil or product buildup, but is not compulsory. See the guide to double shampooing.

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5. Use conditioner as directed

Apply conditioner to the lengths and ends, using the amount and contact time stated on the product. Fine hair may need less than dry, dense or curly hair. Rinse out rinse-out conditioner; leave-in products are used differently. Read about the order of shampoo and conditioner.

6. Dry without vigorous rubbing

Gently squeeze out excess water and use a soft towel or T-shirt without scrubbing. Slowly detangle any remaining knots from the ends. Limit heat styling and follow the heat protectant instructions when using heated tools.

Adapt the routine instead of following fixed rules

Wash as needed to remove oil, sweat and product residue; no single weekly schedule suits everyone. If your hair feels heavy afterwards, first check product amounts and rinsing. Stop using a product that irritates you, and have persistent or significant scalp discomfort assessed.

How often do you wash your hair?
Every day
A few times per week
Once a week
Less often than once a week

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