You may have selected the right shampoo and conditioner that works well for your hair type. Other hair essentials like creams and oils that work well for you may even be at your disposal. Still, getting that satisfying, clean wash may prove difficult. Washing your hair isn't just lather and water. Following a proper hair-washing guide can promote gorgeous, healthy hair.
Common Hair Washing Mistakes to Avoid
Too many times, you thought you'd outdone yourself at your hair game, but just as you leave the shower, you can't guarantee that the clean feeling can accompany you for days.
Washing Hair Too Often
Itching and discomfort are common with those with dry or greasy scalp. You may then feel tempted to wash your hair to feel better. But, doing it too often can strip hair of its natural oils, leaving you with dry, brittle and damaged hair. You should also avoid using regular shampoos and those with sulfates, especially if your hair has been color-treated, as it can cause the hue of your hair to fade faster.
Using the Wrong Shampoo and Conditioner
A stronger, smoother and shinier hair is not easy to come by. As much as you desire this, always prioritize what goes into your hair. Shampoos and conditioners can stimulate the scalp, moisturize and hydrate hair, but the wrong formulas may fail to provide these benefits. Not all shampoos and conditioners are for you. While GK Hair's Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner works great for all hair types, a shampoo like Shield Shampoo offers more than hydration for colored-treated hair. It contains ingredients that protect color from fading quickly.
Layering on Different Product
As you start taking your hair care routine seriously, selecting a hair care product line that works might prove difficult. However, using products from different hair care lines cannot get you good results as each manufacturer boasts of their unique ingredients. GK Hair is a trusted and viable option, if you are seeking a hair care line that accommodates your hair needs.
How to Properly Wash Your Hair
Lather, rinse, condition—most people think it's as simple as that. Washing doesn't involve complex techniques and lots of products as using too many can weigh hair down. This is why you should know how to properly wash your hair.
Prep Your Hair
No, the shampoo isn't your first go-to. This is where you may have been missing it. First, rinse your hair with water—lukewarm, not hot nor cold—for a good start to open up your cuticles to receive natural goodness embedded in your chosen hair care products. Now, if you've got thick hair, dividing it into sections will make it easier for you to wash thoroughly.
Apply Shampoo
Be sure you've stocked up on the right shampoo for your hair type. Then, apply a small amount to your palm and rub it in before applying it to your scalp. Massage your scalp using your fingertips and move in gentle circular motions to lift dirt and product residue off the roots while washing mildly. Then, work the suds down the length of your hair. Your focus should be on your scalp rather than your hair strands, as this is where cleansing and stimulation are most effective.
Have you selected the right shampoo and other hair essentials? Read on Everything You Need to Keep Your Hair Gorgeous, with product recommendations for your hair type.
Pro-tip: Avoid applying shampoo to your lengths but if you need to, apply a little to your palm and create a lather before working through hair.
Rinse Out
Once you are certain you've massaged evenly on your scalp, rinse out products. Be sure your water is safe, soft and non-chlorinated. Rinse under running water until the shampoo bubbles and lather are all gone. Rinsing correctly will reduce buildup on your scalp. For dry hair, rinsing with cold water will give strength and health to your strands.
Apply Your Conditioner
After you've done the shampoo routine on your scalp, your length needs the conditioner. Don't undo all the work you've done by applying the conditioner to your scalp. If you are sure you've selected the best hydrating conditioner, apply it evenly and leave it to sit for 2-5 minutes to soften and smooth your hair. Your conditioner should not stay for too long unless it's a Leave-In Conditioner. Get a wide-toothed comb in hand and detangle your hair. If you've done this while prepping your hair in step 1, then you do not need to do it again.
Rinse Out Again
You’re on the right track if you’ve followed all the steps up to this point. Rinse out the conditioner thoroughly as you did for the shampoo.
Dry
This is another step people don't pay much attention to for healthier strands. In an attempt to dry, don't rub your hair. If you've got a microfiber towel, pat your hair with it or leave it to air-dry. Here, a cream or serum oil will do no wrong for a perfect finish.
How to Maintain Your Hair
Since you now know how to properly wash your hair and what washing too often does, following a maintenance routine can extend the life and health of your hair.
Use a Dry Shampoo
A dry shampoo should be your new best friend now that you know how to wash hair better. Refresh your hair with a dry shampoo that absorbs excess oil on oily scalp or scalp that's already greasy.
Do Protective Hairstyles
Wearing your hair down looks beautiful, especially when you have just shampooed. Protective hairstyles like braids and updos can protect your hair from breakage which will in turn reduce the need for frequent washing.
Revive Hair With a Spray
Once you feel your curls or waves need texture, use a Volumizing spray like GK Hair's VolumizeHer Spray to enhance your hair's natural texture and volume.
Engage in Scalp Massages
Caring for your scalp is key to maintaining healthy hair on non-wash days. Scalp massages with your fingers stimulate blood circulation which helps in hair growth and provides nutrients to your follicles.
Bottom Line
Now that you know how to properly wash your hair, stay big on using the right hair products and be consistent in your hair care routine.
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