I have very long, very thick, very tangle-prone hair, so it's safe to say that washing my hair is one of my most dreaded beauty tasks. So much so that I have managed to train my hair into only needing a weekly wash, and will literally do anything I can to postpone the hours I have to spend brushing, shampooing, scrubbing, rinsing, combing, drying, and (eventually) styling.
I'm quite sure that I'm not alone. No one actually enjoys washing their hair, right? It's one of those time-consuming tasks that, much like cleaning your makeup brushes, feels more like a chore than "self-care". At the same time, it's one of the most essential. We all know that neglecting hair wash day for too long results in lank, greasy hair, product build-up, and scalp issues—the long-term repercussions of which can really impact hair growth, condition, and health in the long run, too.
So, in an effort to try to streamline and condense my hairwashing routine as much as possible—and without compromising my hair and scalp health—I reached out to the professionals. If you're looking to make wash day easier (maybe, even, enjoyable?), keep scrolling to discover the five hair-washing mistakes experts want us to stop making (and learn how to wash your hair properly).
1. Neglecting the Scalp
"A really common mistake that people make is shampooing the hair and not the scalp," says hairstylist and salon owner Melissa Timperley. "The hair technically doesn’t get that dirty, but it’s the scalp that really makes a difference." Timplerley advises massaging shampoo evenly into scalp focussing it there rather than on the lengths of your hair. "Most importantly, you should avoid rubbing the ends of your hair because that can damage the cuticle," she adds.
Shop scalp care products:
It may mean adding an extra step into your routine, but using a scalp scrub once a week will help to prevent buildup of product residue, oil, and dry skin.
This detoxifying shampoo provides an ultra-deep clean—the kind you need if you use styling products, live in an urban area, or only wash your hair once a week.
The haircare equivalent to an exfoliating facial toner, this clarifying scalp soak acts like a reset button for your roots, breaking down even the most stubborn buildup.
2. Overwashing Hair
If your hair gets greasy so fast that you're in the habit of a daily hair wash, then it's likely that you're overwashing your hair. As a rough guide, hairstylist and Maria Nila ambassador Diego Miranda recommends washing hair every two to five days. "Of course, it will depend on your hair and scalp condition, and also the type of lifestyle you have," he adds. "For explample, if you exercise everyday you will feel the need to wash your hair more frequently as the sweat could lead to more grease." Above all Miranda emphasises that the hair and scalp shouldn’t be washed everyday. "It’s important to maintain the natural oils on your scalp to keep your hair hydrated."
Shop gentle shampoos:
If you are in the habit of a daily hairwash, this shampoo is specifically designed to be gentle enough for daily use. Nourishing proteins will keep your scalp and hair clean without overstripping.
Formulated to be gentle enough for sensitive and irritable scalps, this coconut-scented shampoo provides a gentle and effective cleanse, without stripping.
Packed with argan oil, antioxidants, and fatty acids, this kind-to-hair shampoo softens, strengthens, adds moisure, and helps to combat frizz.
3. Skipping Conditioner
We know that hairwashing is a tedious and time-consuming process, but don't be tempted to skip the conditioner. "Shampoo is one of the most important things you can put on your hair, but it should always be followed by a conditioner or treatment," says Timperley. "Shampoo opens the cuticle in order to clean, but conditioner closes it back down. This is why conditioner makes hair feel silkier, because the cuticles aren’t rubbing against each other," she explains. "Plus, this means hair stays fresher for longer."
Shop conditioner:
If conditioner doesn't leave hair feeling silky and looking shiny, then it's not doing its job. This cult classic wins every time.
If heat tools, styling products, and chemical treatments or colouring have left your hair dry and damaged, this reparative conditioner will help to restore hair health.
Heavy conditioners can be hard to rinse out of hair, an can mean it gets greasier quicker. While this formula is still ultra-moisturising, it's also really lightweight and rinses free easily.
4. Using Too Much Shampoo
One of the most frequently asked questions for hairdressers is 'how much shampoo should I use?', and according to both Timperley and Miranda, this is really important. "Shampoos are more concentrated than most people think," says Timperley. "You only need a 5p or 10p sized application, depending on length)."
According to Miranda, overloading hair with shampoo, especially if you have fine hair or are prone to a greasy scalp, will only make things worse. "How much you use really is dependent on the thickness and length of your hair," he reiterates. "For a fine bob you’ll use a lot less than long thick curls." If you feel like your hair needs a more thorough wash, don't be tempted to use a double dose. Instead, rinse the first shampoo out and do a second application which will cleanse and rinse thoroughly after both.
Shop shampoo:
If your hair is fine or you're experiencing hair loss, try this growth-stimulating shampoo from The Nue Co.
Yes, this shampoo really does feel as good as it looks—and it smells great, too. Honey helps the maintain hair's moisture balance and adds shine and softness.
With more than just cleansing benefits, this shampoo works to repair and condition hair at the same time—and even helps to prevent colour from fading.
5. Not Rinsing Hair Properly
Not properly rinsing the shampoo and conditioner out of your hair can lead to a whole host of issues, such as scalp buildup, greasy roots, dry hair, and dullness. According to Miranda, your entire hairwash routine should last between ten and twenty minutes, and half of that should be spent rinsing. "Always rinse thoroughly to minimise buildup in your hair, and pay particular attention to the nape of your neck and behind your ears," he adds.
Shop post-hair wash products:
Want to skip the hair drying? I don't blame you. This revolutionary spray helps to add definition and reduce flyaways without the need for heat.
There are plenty of shampoos and conditioners that promises to add shape and boost curls, but ask any professional and they will tell you that hair styling products like this one are far more effective.
Oils can sometimes weigh hair down and make it feel greasy, but they do really help to add shine and softness and reduce fluffy ends. This spray-on oil means you get all the benefits and none of the unwanted side effects.
Next Up: Experts Swear By This Technique for Incredible Hair —I Just Put It to the Test