How to Wash Your Hair Correctly

Maintaining the health of your hair, especially if you're experiencing thinning or hair loss, requires more than just routine washing. It's about choosing the right techniques and products to nurture and protect your hair. Here are expert tips for achieving silky, shiny, and beautiful hair.

Step 1: Pre-Wash Hair Brushing

Contrary to common belief, brushing your hair before washing is crucial. For those with sensitive scalps and thinning hair, a brush with wide bristles is recommended over combs. This gently detangles and massages the scalp, reducing stress on the hair during washing and helping remove dandruff gently.

• Importance: Brushing before washing helps to detangle hair, reducing breakage during washing. It also stimulates the scalp, promoting blood circulation and hair health.
• Technique: Use a soft-bristled brush. Gently start from the ends, working your way up to the roots to minimize pulling and breakage.
• Tip: For thinning hair, opt for a brush designed to be gentle on the scalp and hair follicles.

Special Offer from LilyHair Customers ordering hair products from LilyHair will receive a complimentary luxury brush, perfect for managing thinning hair.

Step 2: Optimal Water Temperature

Vivian, our hair expert, advises using warm water for washing hair, ideally between 87.8℉ to 100.4℉. Hot water can irreversibly damage the hair cuticle, so it’s best to test the water with your hand first, ensuring it's comfortably warm but not hot.

• Why It Matters: Hot water can strip hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness. Warm water opens up hair cuticles gently, allowing the shampoo and conditioner to work more effectively.
• Ideal Temperature: Aim for a temperature that feels warm on the skin but not hot, typically between 87.8℉ and 100.4℉.
• Application: Gradually wet your hair, allowing the temperature to acclimate and prepare your hair for cleaning.

Step 3: Selecting the Right Shampoo

The key to choosing the right shampoo lies in understanding your scalp's pH level. A study from Harvard University reveals that a normal scalp has a weakly acidic pH between 4.5 and 6.5. Knowing your scalp's pH can guide you to the appropriate shampoo, as most products list their acidity and intended function on the label.

Reminder: Avoid applying shampoo directly to your hair. Instead, mix it with water in your hand to create a lather before applying.

• Understanding pH Levels: The pH level of your scalp influences your choice of shampoo. Oily scalps tend to have lower pH, while dry scalps have higher pH levels.
• Product Choice: Look for shampoos specifically formulated for your scalp type. For thinning hair, choose products that are gentle and free from harsh chemicals.
• Application: Lather the shampoo in your hands first, then apply it to your scalp, massaging gently to clean and stimulate the scalp.

Step 4: Gentle Scalp Massage

Treat your hair and scalp with care. Gently massage your scalp for about 5 minutes during shampooing to relax the hair and aid in recovery from daily damage. If the lather diminishes, a second shampoo application may be necessary.

• Benefits: Massaging your scalp while shampooing increases blood flow, strengthens hair roots, and helps to distribute natural oils throughout your hair.
• Technique: Use your fingertips (not nails) to gently massage your scalp in circular motions.
• Duration: Aim for a 5-minute massage to ensure thorough cleaning and stimulation.

Step 5: Correct Conditioner Application

Conditioner should be applied from the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots and scalp. After applying, detangle with a comb and leave the conditioner in for 5-7 minutes for optimal results.

• Purpose: Conditioner helps to hydrate and smooth hair, making it more manageable and less prone to breakage.
• How to Apply: Focus on the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair. Avoid applying conditioner directly to the scalp to prevent buildup.
• Timing: Leave the conditioner in your hair for 5-7 minutes for deeper penetration and better hydration

Step 6: Drying Your Hair

Our experts recommend using a soft, dry towel, especially in warmer months. For quicker drying in colder weather, start with a towel and then use a hairdryer. To protect your hair from heat damage, apply rose or coconut oil after using a dryer.

• Towel Drying: Gently blot and squeeze your hair with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause frizz and breakage.
• Hair Dryer Use: If using a hair dryer, opt for a low heat setting and keep the dryer moving to avoid excessive heat on any one part of your hair.
• Protective Oils: Apply a small amount of natural oil, like coconut or argan oil, to protect your hair from heat damage and to add moisture.

Addressing Hair Loss While losing a few hairs daily is normal, genetic hair loss is more challenging to address. Remember, opting for a hair system is a personal choice and can be as routine as applying makeup. It's about feeling confident and comfortable in your appearance.

• Understanding Normal Hair Loss: Losing up to 100 hairs a day is normal. However, if you notice more significant shedding, it may be time to consult a professional.
• Genetic Hair Loss:  For hereditary hair loss, topical treatments, medications, or hair systems can be options. It's about finding a solution that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Remember, each person's hair is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Experiment with these tips and find what best suits your hair's needs.

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