Washing your hair is a routine that we all do regularly, but did you know that improper washing can be a leading cause of weak, brittle hair that falls out more easily and looks dry? This is especially true for women with long hair or those who regularly dye their hair. Learning how to shampoo and condition hair properly is not just about cleanliness, but it is the foundation for healthy hair from root to tip.
Understanding Your Hair Before You Start Washing: Different Hair Types and Care
Before you begin washing your hair properly, the first thing you should understand is your hair type and scalp condition. These directly affect how often you should wash your hair and which products are best for you, for example:
- Oily Hair: Should be washed every other day, avoiding conditioners with high levels of silicone.
- Dry Hair: Should be washed about 2-3 times a week and always use conditioner and treatment products.
- Oily Scalp with Dry Ends: Use specific treatments for each area, such as scalp serums and nourishing treatments for the ends of your hair.
6 Steps to Properly Wash Your Hair
1. Brush Your Hair Before Washing to Prevent Tangles
Gently brushing your hair before washing helps reduce hair breakage during the washing process and helps distribute natural oils from your scalp to your hair tips.
2. Rinse Hair with Water Before Shampooing
Rinse your hair thoroughly with water for about 1-2 minutes to wash away dust and oil, and open the hair cuticles to prepare for cleaning.
3. Mix Shampoo with Water Before Applying
Pour the appropriate amount of shampoo onto your palms and mix it with water to create a lather before applying it to your scalp. Avoid pouring shampoo directly onto your head.
4. Gently Massage Your Scalp Using Your Fingertips
Using your fingertips, massage your scalp in circular motions to stimulate blood circulation and remove dirt. Avoid scratching with your nails as it can lead to scalp irritation or even injury and infection.
5. Rinse Shampoo Thoroughly
Make sure to rinse your hair completely until there’s no shampoo residue or foam left. Shampoo residue can clog your scalp’s pores, which may cause scalp irritation, dandruff, and even hair loss.
6. Apply Conditioner Only to the Ends of Your Hair
Avoid applying conditioner to the scalp or roots as it can make your hair greasy and contribute to clogged pores.
Habits That Can Cause Hair Damage Even If You Wash It Correctly
Even if you are washing your hair correctly, these habits can still lead to weak hair:
- Washing your hair too often (twice a day or more) – the recommended frequency is every other day, or once a day for those with very oily hair.
- Using shampoo that isn’t suitable for your hair type.
- Going to bed with wet hair.
- Tying your hair too tightly when it’s wet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Washing Your Hair Properly (FAQ)
Q: Is it okay to wash my hair every day?
A: It’s not necessary, especially for people with dry hair. Washing too often can strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and damaged.
Q: Why is my hair still oily even though I wash it every day?
A: This may be due to using a shampoo with strong chemicals, which can irritate the scalp and trigger increased oil production.
Q: What shampoo should I use?
A: Choose a shampoo that’s suitable for your hair type and avoid those containing parabens and silicones.
Q: How often should I change my shampoo?
A: If you don’t experience scalp issues like dryness or irritation, there’s no need to change your shampoo frequently. You should stick to one shampoo for at least 1-2 months to allow it to work effectively.
If You’re Washing Your Hair Properly, But It’s Still Falling Out, What Should You Do?
Sometimes hair loss is not only caused by washing habits, but by internal factors such as hormones, genetics, or scalp conditions. If you notice excessive hair shedding, visible scalp patches, or hair that’s not growing in certain areas, consulting an expert is the best option. Max Hair Thailand, a clinic specialising in hair transplant, offers consultations and personalised treatment plans. For more information, contact us at 083-289-1664 or via LINE: @MAXHAIR
References:
- “How to Wash Your Hair, Because It Turns Out There’s (Kinda, Sorta) a Right Way to Do It.” Retrieved on May 30, 2025, from Healthline.
