Hair washing mistakes that will ruin your hair are more common than you might think.
Washing your hair is a daily routine for many, but it’s easy to fall into bad habits that can lead to significant hair damage.
At Latest Hair Inspo, we care deeply about our readers’ hair health, which is why we’re here to help you avoid these pitfalls. This guide will show you common hair-washing mistakes and how to fix them so you can wash your hair properly.
From skipping crucial steps to using the wrong products, these mistakes can strip your hair of its natural oils, lead to breakage, and cause scalp issues.
Keep reading to discover how to wash your hair the right way and keep it looking its best with tips and advice from the Latest Hair Inspo.
1. Skipping Pre-Wash Oil Treatment
One of the first hair-washing mistakes that will ruin your hair is skipping the pre-wash oiling step.
Oiling before washing is beneficial because it acts as a protective barrier between your hair and shampoo, reducing the stripping effect of harsh cleansers. It also reduces the amount of water your hair soaks up during washing, which can lead to hydro fatigue, greasiness, and dryness.
Here at Latest Hair Inspo, we recommend coconut oil as one of the best options for a pre-wash treatment because it reduces protein loss in your hair while you shampoo.
Avocado oil is also fantastic, especially for fine hair. Apply a few drops to your scalp and hair, massage it in, and leave it on for at least 15 minutes before hopping in the shower. This step will protect your hair and keep it hydrated.
2. Washing with Hot Water
Washing your hair with hot water can be very damaging. Hot water strips your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. It can also irritate your scalp and cause inflammation.
The right temperature for washing your hair is lukewarm water. Lukewarm water helps open the hair cuticles for a thorough cleanse without causing damage. For the final rinse, use cold water to seal the cuticles and add shine to your hair.
3. Not Wetting Hair Thoroughly Before Shampooing
Not soaking your hair completely before applying shampoo is another common mistake. If your hair isn’t fully wet, the shampoo won’t lather properly, and you’ll need to use more product, which can lead to buildup.
To allow your hair cuticles to open for a deep clean, soak your hair and scalp in warm water for a full minute to ensure every strand is completely wet. If you have low porosity hair, run your fingers through it to make sure it’s drenched.
4. Removing Excess Water Before Shampooing
Many people think they should remove excess water from their hair before applying shampoo, but this is a mistake. Shampoo needs water to lather properly, so leave your hair soaking wet before applying shampoo.
Use a sulfate and paraben-free shampoo for a gentle cleanse, and if you have hard water, use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove buildup.
5. Using Too Much Shampoo
Using too much shampoo can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it dry and brittle. You only need a quarter-sized amount to clean your scalp.
If you use a lot of products during the week, an extra cleanse with the same amount of shampoo can help remove buildup, but avoid overdoing it.
6. Shampooing All of Your Hair
Shampooing your entire hair is unnecessary and can damage your hair. Shampoo is meant for your scalp, so use your fingertips to scrub your scalp in a side-to-side motion.
Avoid scrubbing with your nails or rubbing your ends to clean them, as this can cause tangles and rough the cuticles, leading to hair loss. If you feel like shampooing with your fingertips isn’t enough, use a scalp exfoliator for a deeper clean.
7. Shampooing Too Quickly
Rushing through your shampoo routine doesn’t allow enough time to properly cleanse your scalp, leading to buildup and an unhealthy scalp environment.
Spend at least three minutes scrubbing your scalp to fully remove sebum, dirt, and buildup. Think of it as a gentle massage for your scalp that promotes circulation and healthy hair growth.
8. Rinsing Shampoo Incorrectly
Improper rinsing can leave shampoo residue on your hair and scalp, which can cause irritation and buildup.
When rinsing off the shampoo, don’t wash your ends directly. The shampoo will naturally run down and gently clean your ends.
Here’s the key: Rinse your hair thoroughly for at least a minute to avoid shampoo buildup. Shampoo residue can weigh down your hair, making it look dull and greasy.
9. Wringing Your Hair
Wringing your hair to remove excess water can cause breakage and damage. After shampooing, don’t wring your hair to remove water. Instead, gently squeeze out the excess water.
The less water in your hair, the better it will absorb the conditioner. Here’s a tip: imagine you’re treating your hair like a delicate piece of silk – be gentle!
10. Applying Conditioner Incorrectly
Applying conditioner incorrectly can lead to greasy roots and dry ends.
Conditioner is crucial for healthy hair, especially after shampooing, which can be slightly drying. However, applying conditioner incorrectly can have the opposite effect.
Apply conditioner from mid-lengths to ends, massaging it gently. If you use a deep conditioning mask or protein treatment, towel dry your hair with an old t-shirt or microfiber towel before applying to maximize absorption.
Deep conditioners and masks are thicker and need more concentrated contact with the hair shaft for maximum benefit.
11. Rinsing Conditioner Out Immediately
Don’t rinse the conditioner out immediately. Leave it in for at least 10 minutes, or follow the instructions on the product.
Some conditioners work best when left on for longer periods of time. Cover your hair with a shower cap or clip it up while you wait. This allows the conditioner to penetrate the hair shaft and deliver its moisturizing and nourishing benefits.
12. Using a Regular Towel to Dry Hair
Avoid using a regular towel to dry your hair, as it’s too rough and can damage your hair cuticles. Use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt and gently press to remove water.
If you have curly or wavy hair, scrunch your hair instead of rubbing it. This helps maintain your curl pattern and prevent frizz.
13. Applying Products to Dry Hair
Applying products like leave-in conditioner or hair oil to dry hair doesn’t allow for even distribution and can lead to greasy spots.
Once out of the shower, apply your leave-in conditioner and hair oil while your hair is still damp. Two of our favorite oils are argan oil and jojoba oil because they are lightweight and effective. These products provide additional moisture, nourishment, and heat protection for your hair as it dries.
Cover your hair with a microfiber towel until it dries to minimize frizz and promote healthy hair. This ensures even distribution and better absorption.
EDITOR’S PICK
Cliganic Organic Jojoba Oil
Moroccanoil Treatment Oil
14. Washing Your Hair Too Frequently
Finally, the less you wash your hair, the less water damage you’ll cause.
Washing your hair every seven days is ideal, but a healthy range is every three to four days. This allows your scalp to produce natural oils that help keep your hair moisturized and healthy.
Of course, this can vary depending on your hair type and activity level. If your hair gets greasy quickly, you may need to wash it more often.
However, by following the tips above, you can extend the time between washes and keep your hair looking and feeling its best.
By implementing these tips and avoiding these mistakes, you can wash your hair properly and achieve healthy, beautiful hair.
Remember, for more personalized hair care advice and product recommendations, visit Latest Hair Inspo.
Looking for the latest and greatest in hair inspiration? Don’t miss out! Connect with Latest Hair Inspo on Pinterest!
