We’re going back to basics.
We’ve been washing our hair since we were kids… but that doesn’t mean we’ve been doing it right.
If your waves are falling flat, your hair feels dry despite conditioning, or frizz keeps creeping in no matter what products you use, your wash routine might be the culprit.
We’re answering some common questions about hair washing below…
Short answer: yes, it makes a bigger difference than you'd think.
Long answer: The first shampoo removes surface buildup like product residue, pollution, and excess oil. The second shampoo actually cleanses the scalp and hair.
Think of it like washing your hands after gardening; one rinse gets the grub off, the second wash makes them clean.
For wavy hair especially, double shampooing is a great idea. Buildup weighs waves down and stops them forming properly.
If your hair is super dirty, like post-festival or Tough Mudder, using a Clarifying Shampoo can help. Just be aware that this does strip the natural oils, so you do need to deep condition your hair after.
This one depends on your hair and scalp type, but a general guide for wavy hair is every two to three days.
Washing too frequently strips your hair of its natural oils, which your waves need to stay defined and bouncy. Washing too little leads to buildup that will leave your waves falling flat.
If your scalp gets oily quickly, try rinsing with water instead of giving your hair a full shampoo.
Tip: Balance really is key. Washing too little will make your hair greasy, but washing too frequently will also make your hair greasy! This is because shampoos strip away the natural oils, which then encourages your scalp to produce more. Aiming to extend the time between washes is the best approach in the long term.
If you’re like me, you love a shower as hot as Satan’s bath water. But, ending your hair wash that way is not good for your waves!
Hot water opens the hair cuticle, which is great for shampooing as it helps lift dirt and oil from the scalp. But finishing your wash with hot water leaves the cuticle raised, which means more frizz and less shine.
The trick is to rinse your conditioner out with cool or lukewarm water.
It closes the cuticle back down, sealing in moisture and smoothing the hair shaft. It doesn't have to be Wim Hof cold. Just cooler than what you use to shampoo. Your waves will look smoother and softer after.
I know we’re all busy, but leaving your conditioner in just a few more minutes can make a huge difference to your waves.
For wavy hair, conditioner needs at least three to five minutes to properly penetrate the hair shaft. Apply it from mid-lengths to ends, avoiding the roots, and chill for a few minutes whilst it works its magic.
These few minutes are the perfect time to detangle your hair. The conditioner adds moisture, smooths the cuticle, and reduces friction. This offers “slip” which means brushes and fingers will glide through without causing breakages.
If your hair is particularly dry or damaged, a weekly deep conditioning treatment (like our nutrient-rich Hair Mask) left on for 10 to 20 minutes (or even overnight) can make a huge difference.
How you handle your hair after washing matters just as much as what you do in the shower.
Avoid rough towel-drying, it roughens the cuticle and creates frizz. Instead, gently scrunch out excess water with a microfibre towel or an old cotton t-shirt, then apply your styling products while your hair is still soaking wet. More here on the science behind wet styling.
Small changes to your wash routine can completely transform your waves.
Start with these, and you might be surprised by the difference.
