Hair washing is a crucial part of our hair care routines, but it often gets overlooked and/or we end up accidentally using the wrong techniques. Ensuring you have a proper hair washing routine can help maintain the health of your hair and prevent damage, leading to shinier, smoother and healthier locks. Continue reading for our step-by-step guide to the perfect hair washing routine!

Step 1: Prepare your hair

Before getting in the shower, make sure your hair is detangled. Use a wooden brush or wide-tooth comb to remove any knots or tangles to prevent breakage during the washing process. Shop our wooden brushes and combs here.

Step 2: Choose the right shampoo

Select a shampoo that is suitable for your hair type and address any specific issues such as dryness, oiliness or dandruff. If you're unsure which shampoo is best for your hair type, take our hair care quiz here.

Step 3: Wet your hair

Wet your hair thoroughly under running water. Avoid using hot water, as this can damage the hair cuticles and cause unnecessary dryness. Instead, opt for lukewarm water to cleanse your hair.

Step 4: Apply shampoo and lather
Apply a small amount of shampoo to your scalp and massage it in using your fingertips. Do not rub your hair, as this can cause tangles and damage. Instead, use a gentle circular motion to cleanse your scalp and hair.

Step 5: Rinse thoroughly
Rinse your hair thoroughly to remove all traces of shampoo. Use lukewarm water to avoid damaging the hair cuticles.

Step 6: Lather again

Add another small to moderate amount of shampoo and lather your shampoo again. Lathering your hair twice with shampoo helps to ensure that all areas of the scalp and hair are thoroughly cleaned, removing any dirt, oil, or buildup that may have accumulated. This results in a deeper clean, leading to a healthier-looking (and feeling) scalp and hair. 

Step 7: Conditioner

No matter what your hair type is, a conditioner is a must for the overall health of your hair! Apply your conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, avoiding the scalp to prevent greasiness. Leave it on for a few minutes rather than rinsing right away, so that your hair is able to absorb all the nutrients and hydration it has to offer. After a few minutes has passed, rinse thoroughly.

Step 8: Finish with a final rinse

For a final rinse, use cold water to help close the hair cuticles, which can make your hair look shinier.

Step 9: Apply a leave-in conditioner

Applying leave-in conditioner to wet hair is important because it helps to lock in moisture, detangle, smooth the hair, and protect the hair cuticles. This is especially crucial for those with dry, damaged or curly hair, as it helps to keep the hair hydrated, reducing breakage and frizz, while promoting overall hair health and manageability. Not to mention it's also great at helping to detangle your hair! Shop our leave-in conditioners here.

Step 10: Dry your hair 

Pat your hair dry with a towel, avoiding rough towel-drying, which can cause breakage. If possible, let your hair air-dry, as using heat tools like blow dryers can further damage your hair.

When it comes to you hair health, it all comes down to perfecting the most basic habits, such as washing your hair. By taking something you usually do mindlessly, and doing it with more intention, your hair health will improve immensely!