This is the first topic I want to start with, and one of the biggest reasons why I decided to begin this blog.
During consultations, when I examine my clients’ scalp and hair, one of the first questions I ask is: How do you shampoo your hair? What kind of shampoo do you use? How much do you use at a time?
These questions are especially important for those who struggle with scalp issues. I realized that many people actually don’t know the correct way to shampoo.
In my consultations, I check with my own eyes and hands. As a trichologist, what I can do is explain what’s happening on the scalp and share improvements within my expertise.
For example, sometimes I find that a client’s scalp is dry, but the client themselves feels that their scalp is oily and that their hair feels rough and never gets clean. When I touch their scalp, my fingers feel slippery, but the scalp is actually dry. Why is this happening?
That’s why I ask those earlier questions.
A common answer I hear is: I quickly wet my hair with the shower, apply shampoo, and since it doesn’t lather, I add more shampoo. I wash with poor foam and then rinse.
This doesn’t truly cleanse the scalp or hair.
So then, what is the right way to shampoo?
Step by Step Guide
Pre-rinse: Take 2–3 minutes to slowly rinse your scalp and hair with water, running your fingers through your hair to remove dust and dirt. About 80% of impurities are removed in this step. For short hair, 1-2 minutes is usually enough. The pre-rinse is the key!!
Apply shampoo: Use about a quarter-sized amount (just enough to fit in the hollow of your palm). Spread it between both palms, then gently work it into your scalp, adding a little water to create a soft lather.
Massage gently: Use the pads of your fingers (not your nails) to wash the entire scalp evenly. Remember: shampoo is for the scalp, not the hair.
Rinse thoroughly: Use good water pressure and rinse until your scalp and hair feel completely clean.
Apply conditioner: Conditioner provides needed moisture for your hair. Apply it from the mid-lengths to the ends, then run your fingers through from roots to ends. Many people mistakenly apply conditioner directly to the scalp—avoid this! THen make sure rinse it all out.
At L’espoir Head Spa, we use scalp detox treatments with micro mist to deeply cleanse the pores of your scalp. The reason I go into so much detail about how to shampoo is to help you maintain clean and healthy scalp care at home for lasting results.
Are you shampooing the right way?