Why Washing Your Hair Correctly Will Give You Salon-Worthy Tresses

You know how amazing your hair feels (and looks, for that matter) when you leave the salon? That' s because the pros know the perfect method for washing your  locks . Well ,  mirroring their techniques could make a world of difference when it comes to your hair's health, bounce and shine . The trouble is, if you're  not washing your hair correctly (we all make very common mistakes) , you could be damaging your locks without even realising it.  

So, instead of jumping in the shower and washing your tresses in 60 seconds or less, why not follow these seven tips on how to wash your hair like the pros and transform your mane .

1. Getting The Water  T emperature  Right  

When it comes to washing your hair  correctly , it’s essential to avoid using  water that's too hot .  You see, if the water is too warm, it  will over-stimulate the sebum gland s on your scalp, causing them to produce excess oil. Essentially, use water that is too hot and you’ll be left with  greasy roots !  

2. Using The Right Amount Of Shampoo  

As it turns out, most of us are using too much shampoo, so remember to portion control .  Pop a 10p-sized amount of shampoo into the palm of your hand and rub your hands together.  When it starts to lather, g ently m assage it into  your  scalp .   

You also want to avoid shampooing too vigorously as this can damage and weaken your hair. To prevent this, apply shampoo  using your fingertips and palms, never   your nails.

3. Shampoo, R inse, R epeat  

Here’s another golden rule: i f you're not washing your hair daily, applying shampoo twice is usually better .  Whilst  the first shampoo works to remove any dirt and grease ,  the second will penetrate the hair shaft  and give your hair what it needs, be it hydration or volume.

4. The T ruth A bout  L ather  

If you're using a high quality or non-sulfate shampoo, keep in mind that it might not produce as much lather as you expec t – and you really shouldn’t apply more of it to get that foaminess. Whilst we’re predisposed to associate foam with clea nliness,  the lathering effect of shampoo actually serves no purpose. Yep, really. It's created by  sulfates  and ,  if anything, can be damaging.  

5. How To Properly Condition Your Hair  

After shampooing, you should always use a conditioner. Before applying it ,  though, make sure that you   squeeze any excess water from your hair first ,  as this will dilute the formula and stop it being as effective.  I’d  recommend  drying it slightly with a towel.   

You should also o nly apply conditioner to your mid-lengths and ends as it does absolutely nothing for your scalp, other than clog your pores .  

6. Try To  Use Higher  Quality   Ingredients  

When it comes to haircare, we're fully behind using the highest quality products you can afford (although this doesn't mean you need to break the bank). Trust us, it does make a difference. Professional haircare contains higher quality ingredients, more advanced technology, and fewer nasties . On the other end of the spectrum, lower quality formulas tend to leave a 'plastic' coating on the hair which fools us to think our locks are super shiny, when in fact they have actually created a barrier that's preventing any good ingredients getting in!

7. Choose The Right Haircare  For  Your Hair Type  

It's also imperative that you us e  the right product for your hair type. Why? Because if you use one that's designed for damaged hair when your hair isn't damaged, it just results in heavy, weighed down locks and lots of leftover residue. In fact, the majority of the UK population use an anti-dandruff formula when they don't need to be. The result? A very dry scalp.  

To give you a helping hand,  I’ve  rounded up the best formulas to use for your hair type...  

Dry  Hair

I f your hair tends to be a little on the dry side, it's time to give it some TLC before it becomes really damaged. Using a hair mask as part of your routine will help  to   restore moisture , whil st  adding a hydrating shampoo and conditioner to your bathroom lin e   up wi ll  ensure  that  your mane is given a   moisture  boost every time you wash.  

I’d recommend the  Aveda Dry Remedy Masque . It will  intensely moisturise dehydrated, weak hair, reviving brittle strands and leaving them soft, supple and healthy .

Oily  Hair

If it’s oiliness that you struggle with, try using  a scalp exfoliator once a week. It  will   remove dead skin cells and product build-up , leaving your hair fresh and clean .   It will also prevent your scalp from getting clogged and producing excess sebum.  

I’d recommend  Kérastase Chronologiste  Revitalising Exfoliating Care . It will  gently massage and exfoliate your hair, whilst ridding each strand of built up grime and dirt.  

Fine Hair

A lot of women with fine hair often avoid using conditioner altogether as they feel that it weighs the hair down, but you're actually not doing your locks any favours! Instead, choose a very light or  volumising  conditioner and apply  it  sparingly to the lengths and  ends  of your hair.  

I’d recommend the  Redken High Rise Volume Lifting Conditioner . Its volumising formula works to lift fine, flat, lifeless hair.  

Damaged Hair

A deep conditioning mask is your damaged tresses’ new BFF. If your hair is feeling a little worse for wear and in need of immediate repair, opting for a 5 - minute protein-rich treatment once a week will  strengthen them and prevent any  snapping.  

I’d recommend the  Moroccanoil  Restorative Hair Mask . It is a revitalising treatment that nourishes, rebuilds strength and restores hair's elasticity.  

Follow these simple rules about washing your hair correctly and you’ll have salon-worthy tresses every day!  

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