With the rise of barbershops, men not only gained access to high-quality grooming services but also learned more about proper hair care. While washing your hair won’t directly impact hair growth, it can significantly improve the condition of your scalp, which in turn, enhances the health and appearance of your hair.
Surprisingly, many men still make numerous mistakes when it comes to something as simple as washing their hair. Here are some tips to help you avoid common errors:
Tip 1: Wash your hair as needed
The old advice to wash your hair once a week is long outdated. The frequency of washing varies for each person and depends on hair type and water hardness. In winter, hair may need more frequent washing due to wearing hats, while in summer, heat and dust can require more frequent washing. Dry hair tends to be fragile and doesn’t become oily quickly, so washing it 2-3 times a week is sufficient. Oily hair produces more sebum, so it can be washed daily. Dust and sebum clog pores, hindering the scalp's ability to breathe and reducing the nutrients reaching the roots.
Tip 2: Choose the right shampoo
You may have noticed that after visiting a barbershop, your hair looks well-groomed and healthy. This is not only due to the barber’s skill but also the professional products used. The best way to choose the right shampoo is to ask your barber for advice. They can assess your scalp and hair condition and recommend suitable products while advising which ones to avoid.
Professional shampoos are more expensive than regular ones, but they contain more vitamins and oils, with fewer sulfates, which leads to healthier-looking hair.
Tip 3: Use a comb before washing
Before you start washing your hair, gently comb through it. This helps distribute the shampoo evenly and prepares your hair for washing. A light scalp massage stimulates blood flow to the roots and provides a relaxing effect. After washing, it’s best to avoid combing your hair to prevent damage.
Tip 4: Don’t use hot water
The optimal water temperature for washing your hair is 40-45°C (104-113°F). After washing, rinse your hair with cool water to seal the hair cuticles and give your hair a shinier appearance.
Tip 5: Add more water, not shampoo
Make sure to thoroughly wet your hair before applying shampoo. If you don’t have enough lather, add more water instead of shampoo, as it’s the foam that cleanses your scalp.
Tip 6: Use a mask and conditioner
You can use a conditioner after each wash. It moisturizes your hair, making it softer and easier to manage. Leave it on for 3-5 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
Hair masks should be used 1-2 times a week and should match your hair type. If you use a mask, you can skip the conditioner to avoid overloading your hair with products.
Additional hair care tips
If you regularly use dry shampoo, avoid making it a permanent solution. While your hair may appear clean, dirt remains on your scalp, which can cause breakouts. The same issue can arise from overusing styling products, which is why they should be washed out at the end of the day.
By following these simple tips, you can maintain the health of your hair and scalp and improve its overall appearance.