8 Game-Changing Hair Wash Tips for Healthier, Shinier Hair
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through the link at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here.
When it comes to maintaining healthy, shiny hair, it all starts with one thing: how you wash your hair. While it might seem like a simple task, proper hair washing can set the foundation for stronger, healthier strands, leaving your hair full of life and bounce.
As a professional hairstylist, I often see how small changes in washing techniques can make a big difference. By following these expert-approved tips, you can elevate your hair care routine and ensure your hair looks its best every day. From the way you prep your hair to the temperature of the water, every detail matters!
In this blog, I’ll share 8 essential hair washing tips that will help you take better care of your hair, avoid common pitfalls, and achieve the healthy, vibrant hair you’ve always wanted. Let’s dive in!
8 Hair Washing Tips for Healthier, Shinier Hair
We’ve all had those days where our hair just doesn’t feel right, no matter what products we use. But what if the real problem lies in how you wash your hair? A good hair-washing routine can transform your hair, making it easier to manage, healthier, and more vibrant. Whether you’re dealing with product buildup, oily roots, or dry ends, these 8 hair washing tips will help you maintain clean, strong, and beautiful hair.
1. Rinse Thoroughly
Let’s start with something simple but super important—rinsing. It might sound like a no-brainer, but trust me, skipping this step or rushing through it is one of the most common mistakes I see. You want to make sure you’re rinsing out all the shampoo, conditioner, and any styling products from your hair, especially if you’re using a leave-in.
Why it matters? If you don’t rinse thoroughly, you’re leaving behind product residue that can weigh your hair down and dull its shine. That’s the last thing we want! Take your time under the water, and keep rinsing until your hair feels clean and light—no slipperiness left behind.
2. Double Shampoo Your Scalp
Double shampooing is a game-changer. I always tell my clients, imagine your scalp is like a busy city street that collects dirt, oil, and product buildup throughout the day. A single wash just doesn’t cut it!
The first shampoo is like the street sweeper—it gets rid of the surface dirt. The second wash? That’s the deep clean. It’s what actually cleans your scalp and gives your hair that fresh, bouncy feel.
For the first wash, use a small amount of shampoo to remove the initial buildup. For the second wash, feel free to use a little more product to really get in there and clean your scalp thoroughly.
3. Condition Correctly
Conditioner is like your hair’s hydration boost, but there’s a right way to apply it, depending on your scalp type.
For oily scalps: Skip the scalp and focus on the mid-lengths and ends. Applying conditioner to your roots can weigh your hair down and make it look greasy faster.
For dry scalps: Apply conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends, then use the leftover product to gently moisturize your scalp. This helps hydrate without overloading your roots.
Always leave the conditioner in for at least 3-5 minutes before rinsing to give your hair time to soak in all that moisture!
4. Focus Shampoo on the Scalp
Your scalp is where the magic happens—it’s the main area that needs cleaning. That’s where the oil and buildup really accumulate. I always say, “Treat your scalp like it’s the VIP of your wash routine.”
When applying shampoo, concentrate on your scalp, not your ends. Your ends are often drier and more delicate, so when you rinse the shampoo out, the suds will naturally clean the rest of your hair without over-drying those sensitive areas.
Use your fingertips (not nails!) to massage the shampoo into your scalp in circular motions. This stimulates circulation and helps dislodge buildup for a thorough clean.
5. Use a Scalp Scrub Once or Twice a Month
Think of this like a facial for your scalp. Scalp scrubs remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and product buildup, leaving your scalp feeling refreshed and ready to grow healthy hair.
If you’re dealing with dandruff or product buildup, a monthly scalp scrub can work wonders.
6. Emulsify Your Shampoo Before Application
This is a secret tip I swear by: always emulsify your shampoo before applying it to your hair. All you need to do is rub the shampoo between your hands to activate the ingredients before it even touches your scalp.
Why? It makes the shampoo spread more easily and evenly, ensuring you get a better cleanse without using too much product. It’s all about working smarter, not harder.
7. Blot Hair with a Towel, Don’t Rub
I see this mistake all the time—people vigorously rubbing their hair with a towel after washing. Trust me, this rough treatment can lead to frizz, breakage, and damage to your hair cuticle. A microfiber towel is your best friend here. It’s softer, absorbs more moisture, and reduces frizz compared to a regular cotton towel. Plus, if you’re trying to preserve curls, it’s a game-changer. This helps keep your hair smooth and free of unnecessary friction.
8. Choose the Right Water Temperature
I know, nothing beats a hot shower, but for your hair, it’s not the best option. Hot water strips away the natural oils from your scalp, leaving your hair dry and prone to damage. Opt for lukewarm water during the shampoo stage and, if you can handle it, finish with a cool rinse.
This cool-down helps seal the hair cuticle, locking in moisture and giving your hair a beautiful, natural shine.
What’s the Best Hair Wash Shampoo I’d Recommend
As a hairstylist, I always tell my clients that the shampoo you pick is just as important as the way you wash your hair. So, here’s a breakdown of my top shampoo recommendations based on your scalp type, to help you maintain healthy, happy hair.
For an Oily Scalp:
You need a shampoo that balances oil production without stripping away your hair’s natural moisture. The trick is to find a product that cleanses deeply but gently.
One of my favorites is the OGX Green Tea Fitness Shampoo. It’s packed with tea tree oil, which has natural antibacterial properties, and peppermint oil to stimulate blood flow. The best part? It leaves your hair feeling refreshed and revitalized without over-drying it. Trust me, this shampoo is perfect for keeping oil at bay, and with consistent use, you’ll see the difference.
If oily hair is a constant struggle for you, check out my blog post on The Best Shampoos for Oily Hair for more tailored recommendations. I’ve also shared some key tips in How to Get Rid of Oily Greasy Hair, so you can keep your scalp fresh and balanced every day!
For a Dry Scalp:
If you’re dealing with a dry scalp, hydration is key. I always recommend looking for shampoos that include nourishing ingredients like argan oil or shea butter—these oils seep into your scalp, providing essential moisture and keeping dryness at bay.
For dry scalp types, the MATRIX Total Results Mega Sleek Shampoo is a winner. It’s hydrating without being heavy, and it helps to smooth and strengthen your strands while taming frizz. This shampoo will make your hair feel softer, more manageable, and healthier with every wash.
For a Normal Scalp:
If you’ve got a normal scalp, congratulations—you’re in the sweet spot! But, of course, you still need a shampoo that maintains the balance. You want something that gently cleanses without being too rich or too light.
My go-to for normal scalps is the Global Keratin Balancing Shampoo. It cleanses effectively without stripping your scalp of its natural oils and provides just the right amount of moisture. Your hair will feel light, refreshed, and healthy—exactly how it should after every wash.
Conclusion
And there you have it—my top hair washing tips to help you maintain healthy, happy hair. From rinsing thoroughly to choosing the right water temperature, these little tweaks can make a big difference in how your hair looks and feels. Don’t forget that using the right shampoo for your scalp type is key to boosting your hair’s overall health.
If you stay consistent with these steps, you’ll see the difference. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s upgrade your hair washing routine and give your hair the care it deserves!
