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Basic Shampooing Tips

Shampoos are designed to cleanse the hair and scalp, removing dirt and grime without stripping the hair it away too much of its natural oils.

They contain cleansing and conditioning agents that can coat the hair’s shaft to make it appear shiny and thicker. The conditioning agents smooth out the cuticle scales so the hair doesn’t tangle and help eliminate static from the hair during and after drying.

Many shampoos are labeled “pH Balanced”, which means they have the same acidity level as the hair. Individuals with damaged or chemically treated hair should opt for these types of shampoos.

However, for healthy hair that is in good condition, a pH balanced shampoo is not particularly necessary provided your shampooing is followed be conditioning.

Shampooing Steps

Always use shampoos formulated for your hair type – dry, normal, oily or chemically treated.

• Brush hair and scalp before shampooing to free any knots and to loosen dirt and dead skin cells.
• Use lukewarm instead of hot water to help in removing any oily residues.
• Wet your hair then work a small amount of shampoo through out the hair, gently massaging your scalp with the pads of your fingers.
• Pay attention to areas where makeup and dirt easily get trapped like the hairline.
• Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Repeat the process if necessary.
• Blot the hair with a clean towel to remove excess water before conditioning your hair.

Additional Shampooing Tips

• Use the correct shampoo for your hair type. If in doubt, choose the mildest formulation available.
• Do not wash your hair with soap or other detergents not formulated for the hair. They are highly alkaline and will upset your hair’s natural pH balance by stripping it of its natural oils.
• Change your shampoo now and then, hair seems to grow resistant to certain ingredients after a while.
• Whenever possible, buy small sachets of a shampoo to test and determine which one works best for you.