How to Properly Wash Your Hair

How often do you wash your hair? Which products do you use and why? Did you know that there is no medical reason why we should wash our hair? Plus, our hair has no self-cleansing mechanism. What does this mean, then? We have to wash our hair in the right way.

Now, there is no universal way of washing hair the proper way. It all depends on our preference, type of hair, the texture of our scalp, and whether our hair is oily or dry.  In this quick guide, we’ll go through all these factors. Then, we’ll share a basic hair wash routine that you can adapt to your hair type and circumstances. Are you ready to discover? Let’s get started!

What Happens When We Wash Our Hair?

Washing our hair the right way has an impact on the scalp and beneath the roots. Hence, we must understand what goes on during a routine wash day as follows: –

•         We remove dirt, dust, and root clogging.
•         You rejuvenate the roots for hair growth.
•         Your hair renews its shine.
•         It reduces excess oil on the hair.
•         It eliminates ingrown hairs.
•         You’ll get rid of a severe product build-up.
•         No more foul smells.

Tips for a Basic Washing Routine for Your Hair

Daily Washing is a No-No

Unlike popular belief, top stylists recommend washing hair three times a week at most. Indeed, our hair produces and loses sebum, its natural oil with every wash. Washing hair daily leaves the hair dry and brittle. In turn, it creates too much split ends, which lead to hair breakage. Persons who have dry hair can nourish their hair by skipping a few wash days.

Luke Warm Water Is Best

Yes. Hot water dries hair. And, cold water constricts the blood capillaries on the scalp. In effect, it blocks a smooth flow of nutrients to the roots. But, when you wash your hair with lukewarm water, the hair cuticles open up. Your hair roots can now breathe with ease.

Massage Your Hair From The Roots To The Tips

As you wash your hair, ensure you massage it for two to three minutes, starting from the roots towards the hair tips. These strokes push the sebum that forms at the roots into the entire hair strand. It also removes any product build up along the strands. You can massage your hair using a soft brush. Avoid scratching your scalp with your nails.

Use The Right Shampoo and Washing Products

First, use a purifying shampoo for oily hair. Moisturizing shampoos are excellent with dry hair.  Second, use products that are in line with the current weather. Use products with sun protection in the summer. And, opt for a static preventer for the winter.  Third, use a reliable conditioner every time you wash your hair. Conditioners help to deodorize and rejuvenate your hair after a wash.

Make sure to read our definitive guide to shampoo, it’s guaranteed to help you make the right pick.

Since hair tends to adapt to the products we use, it is best to change your hair products every six months. Also, take note of aging and use products that are less stressful for your hair. Otherwise, they may not be as effective as when you started using them. Are you undecided on which hair washing products to use? Then, ask your stylist to suggest some of the best products.

View Favorite Purifying Shampoo Here

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Step 1: Soaking

Wet your hair in lukewarm water. Use your hands to lift the edges. Let the water reach the root areas with most dirt and product build-up.

Step 2: Lather

Mix shampoo and water in your palms and lather it.

Step 3: Proper Application

Apply the shampoo to the hair roots. Detangle your hair using your fingers.

Step 4: Proper Massage

Use your fingertips to massage your scalp in circular motions. Start at the crown, coming down to the back of your neck. Apply more pressure at the neck area where there tends to be more buildup of sweat, oil, and product. Then, work on your hairline from your temples coming down.  Avoid scratching the hair or scalp with your nails. Ensure you scrub your entire scalp, reaching all hidden spots.

Step 5: Rinse and Condition

Rinse your hair with clean water, stroking it downwards to get rid of all the shampoo. Apply your choice shampoo and let it sit for five to ten minutes. Then, wash it off with lots of water.

Step 6: Pat Dry and Treatment

Blot your hair with a thick towel. Let the towel absorb as much water as possible. Apply an organic treatment. Let your hair dry in the sun. As much as possible, avoiding any heat treatments to dry your hair. Blow drying your hair too many times ends up damaging it. If you are in a hurry and must get your hair dry soonest, apply a heat protector before you do the heat treatment.

Step 7: Oil and style as desired.

Washing Hair FAQs

Q. How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?

If you have dry hair, you ought to wash your hair less often to preserve your natural oils. Typical dry hair includes curly, aging or gray, treated, and thick hair. In contrast, oily hair needs a wash with sulfate-based products at least thrice a week. Such hair includes light or straight hair. Also, hormonal changes during puberty or menopause can cause too much oil on your scalp.

Second, take note of your scalp condition. Wash your hair less often if your scalp tends to be itchy, flaky, and dry. Instead, opt for more oil massages. Plus, consider your preferred hairstyles. Complicated hairstyles and weaves can be cumbersome to wash. Hence, ensure you protect your hair from dirt and avoid unnecessary washes. 

There is a lot more to discuss about this topics, that’s why we made separate article on it. Make sure to check it out.

Q. Is it advisable to cold rinse my hair for the best shine?

No. Unlike the common belief that a cold rinse can make your hair glossy, it doesn’t. Chilled water provokes the blood capillaries to constrict. In turn, it interrupts the free flow of nutrients to your hair. To improve your hair shine, condition it more often.

Q. Does hair have a self-cleaning mechanism?

No, it doesn’t.  You must wash your hair the right way to rejuvenate it and get it clean.

Q. Must I use a shampoo every time I wash my hair?

No. Unless your hair is very dirty, shampoo it twice a month. Afterward, wash it with water or other organic products only. Remember, water makes our hair to be supple and soft. A good shampoo draws more water into your hair as it cleans the strands.

Q. Which organic products can I add to my wash routine?

Eggs

Make half a cup of beaten eggs and apply it to damp hair. It’ll condition and heal brittle hair.

Honey

Add three tablespoons of honey to your conditioner to make your hair shine.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Do you fancy bouncy hair? Add a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to your rinse water. Then, use pure water to get rid of the smell of vinegar on your hair.

Almond Oil

Begin your hair wash routine with an almond oil treatment. This dose of natural oil helps to strengthen your hair roots.

Conclusion

Healthy hair doesn’t happen by chance. It is intentional. All it takes is a little investment in understanding how our hair responds to the way we handle it.  So, know your hair type. Start by washing it the proper way. Then, adopt a hair wash routine that will help you keep your natural oils and shine. Plus, include some organic products in this routine and let nature nourish you. Maintain this practice for healthy, clean, and shiny hair.  

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