Ever wonder how to properly wash your hair? You should. Your hair is the most amazing material in existence! To dramatically improve your shampoo game let’s learn a little bit about your hair...
Did you know that your hair is made up of 3-4 layers? The middle medulla, the cortex layer (that is responsible for strength, texture, color), the cuticle layer (responsible for softness and shine), and finally, the epicuticle layer (responsible for protecting and sealing the strand).
The epicuticle is your hair’s first defense! It is a waxy layer made up of proteins, fatty acids, lipids, and sterols. The cuticle layer is made up of little cuticles that are like shingles on a roof and these little cuticles are held together by “sticky” lipids and fats that hold the cuticles together. These lipids can be found in the cortex layer as well.
At Wrapcurl we like to call these fatty acids, lipids, ceramides that are present in your hair “goop”. Basically, this “goop” is present throughout the hair. It holds your context, cuticles together and coats every strand.
When your hairs goop is damaged:
The hair loses a vital source of consistent moisture.
The cuticles scales become rigid and are left exposed to mechanical damage.
The vital cement that holds the cuticles in place is compromised, causing loss and damage to the cuticle layers.
It leaves hair porous, rough, absent of gloss or elasticity, and vulnerable to breakage.
You lose hydration easily.
Once you understand how important the “goop” is, everything begins to make more sense!
Every time you wash your hair, you not only remove a buildup of dirt, but you may unknowingly remove some of this magical epicuticle and cuticle goop!
How often should you wash your hair?
Before thinking about the products and techniques, you need to know how often you should wash it. Washing your hair is critical to stimulating and cleansing your scalp. On the other hand, washing can cause damage, so finding the right balance is critical.
If you have fine, limp, oily hair, around 3 times a week. washing every day will strip your hairs epicuticle natural lipids and oils. For thick or coarse strands, once a week. No matter your hair’s texture, resist the temptation to stretch your washes past 7 days. Your hair and scalp need cleansing.
Rather than washing your hair whenever you feel like it, figure out the best cleansing schedule for your hair type and stick to it.
The Hair Wash Do’s
Ditch the harsh shampoos
You have probably heard the sulphates vs no sulphates shampoo debate. Well, now that you have discovered your hair structure it may make more sense. Harsh shampoos attack this goopy cement, weakening the overall hair structure. Opt for a mild Nourishing Shampoo instead. No sulphate shampoos help to preserve the natural balance.
Add in some Cowash days
Co-washing or conditioner cleansing is a great way to get a wash in without stripping your hair.
Rinse Thoroughly
Be sure to rinse thoroughly with water before shampooing. You can achieve a better lather on wet hair that spreads more evenly.
Rinse Thoroughly
Be sure to rinse thoroughly with water before shampooing. You can achieve a better lather on wet hair that spreads more evenly.
Use a prepoo
Yes, we have all seen videos of various prepoos online, well we are here to say that prepoos work! If you have the time, including a prepoo is a wonderful way to boost your healthy hair journey. If prepoos aren’t for you, try our favorite CWC method. That stands for Condition Wash Condition.
Mix Shampoo with Water
Avoid putting shampoo directly on your scalp. Mix it with water first to make sure the shampoo spreads evenly throughout your scalp.
Scalp Massage
Scalp massages are an essential part of your HHJ. They increase blood flow to your hair follicles and extra blood flow is everything, as well as helping to cleanse the scalp. Shampooing is a great opportunity to include a scalp massage.
The Hair Wash Don'ts
Abrasive Washing
You should start lathering from the roots slowly working your way to the ends of your hair, while gently washing using your fingers and palms. Gentle washing without nails is key!
Applying Conditioner on the Scalp
Never apply a conditioner directly on your scalp, as it makes the roots oilier than they are naturally and no one likes an oily scalp.
Rubbing Your Hair Dry
Never frantically rub your hair with a towel as this raises your cuticles. Instead, carefully pat to dry your hair or use the t-shirt method.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the most important things to remember when it comes to washing your hair at home and achieving salon-sleek results.
Your hair loves...
● Regular Cleansing
● Scalp Massages
● Pre POO (especially a preconditioner)
● Mild Nourishing Shampoo
● Nourishing Scalp Oil
● Keeping Scalp Clean and Nourished
● Sealing Cuticle after Washing
Your hair hates...
● Over-washing
● Under washing
● Super-hot water
● Harsh Shampoo with Sulphates
There are some types of common hair damage that washing alone won’t be able to fix...
Did you know that heat damage is the absolute worst type of damage for your hair?
At Wrapcurl we help our customers along their healthy hair journeys. Learn about
Our STEAMPLEX rollers that hydrate and condition your hair while creating amazing on-trend styles WITHOUT heat damage.