How To Actually Wash Your Hair According To A Trichologist

It may sound silly, but did you know there are actually several dos and don’ts when it comes to washing your hair? From the amount of product you’re using, right through to the technique, here’s everything you need to know from expert trichologist, Richard Spencer…

First things first, how often should you be washing your hair? “This depends entirely on your hair and scalp type. Those who produce more sebum and natural oil will want to wash their hair more frequently than those whose oil glands are inhibited,” says Richard, owner of London-based, The Spencer Clinic. “There are extremes to this too - with some needing to wash their hair every day (sometimes twice), and others who can leave theirs a week to 10 days. How active you are will also have an impact.”

Now we’ve cleared that up, here’s a step-by-step guide…

1. Prep Your Hair

Like with most things, preparation is key. “Before getting into the shower, give your hair a good brush to help detangle any knots and dislodge any product build-up,” says Richard. This is particularly important if you’re an avid dry shampoo user. “Next, properly wet your hair with lukewarm water to further dissolve dirt and impurities.” Be mindful that the water isn’t too hot as this can dry out your scalp and weaken the root. It can also make your hair too porous which can lead to breakage and frizz.

2. Apply Shampoo

“Evenly spread the shampoo between your palms before applying directly onto your scalp and hair. Depending on your hair length and thickness, different hair types will need different amounts, but I’d suggest using half a palm full for short to medium length hair and almost double for long, thicker hair,” Richard explains.

Since our Shampoo is naturally-derived and does not contain silicones or sulphates, you may experience a slightly different lather compared to other shampoos. You’ll notice the consistency is lighter and there is a less foamy, bubbly texture when applied. Although it might feel different at first, you can rest assured you’re still getting a thorough and deep cleanse. Try adding a little water to the shampoo in your hands before applying to help emulsify.

3. Use The Right Technique

“When shampooing your hair, use a massaging motion with your fingers to really work the shampoo into your scalp,” adds Richard. “When it comes to the rest of your hair, smooth the shampoo down from root to tip in a stroking motion. Avoid rubbing strands together between your hands as this can also cause breakage to your hair cuticle and can result in flyaways, frizz and broken ends.”

4. Consider A Second Shampoo

If you’re washing your hair every day or every other day, Richard says one good lather should suffice, but less than every other day, he’d suggest shampooing twice. “This is preferable for ensuring your scalp has had a thorough cleanse which is a must for keeping it as healthy as possible.” Think of your first shampoo as cleansing and the second as purifying.

Top tip? If you’re going in for a second shampoo, use less product than you did first time round. “I’d also recommend taking a little more time washing the scalp on your first shampoo. As soon as the lather begins to die, rinse off and apply second shampoo. This will lather for longer and you can wash the hair more thoroughly this time - still not forgetting the scalp.”

5. Rinse Thoroughly

Make sure you properly rinse out all of your shampoo – again, not with the water too hot. “My best advice for a good rinse is to wait until the water runs clear,” says Richard. Use your hands to help massage it out too.

6. Apply Conditioner

Similarly, to how you did with your shampoo, pour your conditioner into your hands, and spread between your palms before applying to well-rinsed hair. “Focus the majority of the product on the mid lengths to ends as your hair needs more conditioning than your scalp,” says Richard. “Again, be sure to use smoothing downwards motions.

If your hair is particularly thick or prone to knots, try using a wide tooth comb to reduce tangles. For optimum results, leave your NEOM Conditioner on for around two to three minutes to really work its magic.

7. Properly Rinse AGAIN

“When it comes to rinsing your conditioner, stop when the water is almost clear,” says Richard. “It can be easy to rinse too much or too little - if you rinse too much, your hair will be left unconditioned but not enough, and your hair can feel lank and oily.” Try a cold-water rinse if you can brave it since this helps to close the hair cuticle and boost shine.

As our Conditioner is rich in natural goodness and has a fairly thick texture, we’d suggest rinsing for a little longer than you may be used to.

8. GENTLY Towel Dry

Your hair is most fragile when wet so do take extra care. Being too rough or aggressive with wet hair will cause damage and even breakage. “Towel dry your hair well but use a scrunching technique to absorb water as opposed to rubbing it against the towel,” says Richard. Microfibre towels like these ones from Aquis, are great at quickly and gently drying your hair without any friction. They’re also a wise move if you’re prone to frizz. “Always use a comb to detangle wet hair as opposed to a brush and don’t tug. Work in small sections.