How to wash your hair correctly?

Tatyana Solomonova , colorist, technologist TM BES, champion of Ukraine (2016, 2019)

Back in 2019, at the exhibition, we carried out scalp diagnostics for everyone and saw that out of 100%, only 10-20% knew how to wash their hair.

The most important thing when washing your hair is the choice of shampoo, mask and conditioner.

The main thing to remember is that shampoo is selected according to the type of scalp, not hair.

If you have an oily scalp and you have to wash your hair every day, then a shampoo for oily hair, a sebum-regulating shampoo, or even a shampoo for volume and hair loss is suitable, as they dry out the scalp.

If you have a dry scalp, which is not so common, because dry skin is usually accompanied by flaking, dull hair and static hair, then nourishing and moisturizing shampoos are suitable for this type of hair. Well, for those who wash their hair once every 3-4 days, shampoos for normal hair are suitable.

If your scalp itches after washing your hair, it is recommended to use shampoos designed for sensitive scalps. You also need to keep in mind that shampoo-conditioner is just a marketing ploy. Shampoos have a higher pH, and masks and conditioners have a lower pH, since the former are intended for cleansing, and the latter for restoring and closing the cuticular layer of the hair.

How to wash your hair correctly?

It is recommended to wash your hair twice, massaging the scalp well, but you do not touch the length of the hair itself, as it is cleaned by the foam draining off. When you actively rub your hair along its length, you mechanically injure it, which can lead to brittleness and tangling of a weaker texture.

The first wash helps lift dirt to the surface; the second application of shampoo removes it completely. If you wash your hair once, you may have noticed that your hair and skin get dirty faster. Also, do not apply the shampoo directly to your head; it is better to lather it in your palms first, perhaps adding water, so you can apply it more evenly. It is not recommended to wash your hair with hot water!

When choosing a mask and conditioner, you need to take into account the hair structure. Conditioners can be used every time after washing, masks - once a week. You also need to remember that these products should not be applied to the scalp, otherwise it will lead to rapid contamination and possibly even dandruff. In summer, use moisturizing masks and conditioners; in winter, use nourishing products containing oils. This is seasonal care.

How to dry your hair correctly?

When drying, do not use a high temperature hair dryer, this can lead to dry hair. If you have the opportunity to give your hair a break from the hair dryer, then do so and let it dry on its own. This is ideal in the summer when the air temperature is already high.

If you want to even out the hair structure with a hair dryer and straightener, while using a brush, then remember that at the high temperature of the hair dryer, metal brushes heat up in the same way as styling irons. So dry your hair using heat protection, without using a brush if possible, and then use a hair straightener.