The Right Way to Wash Your Hair

We are so used to shampooing our hair every day that it surprises most of us to find out that there is actually a proper way of washing it. This is especially important to people with long hair that reaches the neck (this is already long for men). So here is the proper way to wash your hair, to maintain its shine and softness:

1. Comb your dry hair before going in to the shower. This will free your tangled hair, and it will be easier to comb after shampooing.
2. Stand under the shower and rinse your hair, to remove dust and whatever hair product you applied earlier. It is advisable to use warm water to remove the dirt and relax the cuticles in the scalp.
3. Put an appropriate amount of shampoo on your palm (about half a teaspoon for short hair, more for longer and thicker hair), and then spread it evenly on your scalp.
4. Massage your scalp to remove dry skin. Then wash the rest of your hair with the lather.
5. Rinse your hair and continue massaging your scalp. If you used hairspray or gel previously, you should shampoo your hair twice to totally remove it from the strands.
6. If you have rather rough and thick hair, use of conditioner is advised. Gently squeeze out the water from your hair before applying the conditioner. Distribute the conditioner evenly up to the tips of your hair.
7. Let it sit for a few minutes. If you have a shower cap, put it on while letting the conditioner seep through your hair.
8. Rinse your hair thoroughly. Use cool water when rinsing off the shampoo or conditioner to close the hair cuticles.
9. Squeeze out excess water from the hair, and towel dry, but do not rub the hair too much.
10. It is advisable to let the hair dry without using a hair blower, as it dries the hair even more.
11. Comb your hair slowly, careful not to uproot the strands.

Some folks only shampoo their hair every other day to avoid having their scalp and hair dry out. The scalp's natural oils help in keeping the hair shiny. But too much oil can result in accumulation of dust on the strands.

If you are exposed to dust and pollution every day, it is okay to shampoo your hair once a day. There are mild shampoos available in the market that can be used everyday without causing dryness of the scalp.

If you suffer from dandruff, use anti-dandruff shampoo and follow the instructions. Most dandruff shampoos are used only twice a week.

To avoid hair damage, avoid being exposed to direct sunlight. If you live near the sea, chances are your hair is dryer than the average person who lives inland. The use of hair conditioner is even more essential. Constant use of hair products like hair spray and gel can also damage your hair because of their chemical content. It is advisable not to use such products regularly.