I’m a hair expert and it’s true you shouldn’t be washing it every day – here’s the right routine everyone should follow
HAIRCARE can be tricky business – you have to keep track of product trends, consider how often to shampoo, whether to double-cleanse, what products work on your hair and so much more.
But getting your haircare routine down to a T can be the difference between lacklustre locks or shiny strands.
Luckily, an expert has settled the debate once and for all.
Firstly, you probably shouldn’t be shampooing your hair every day.
Overdoing it on the cleansing can confuse your scalp and disrupt its natural balance and production of oils.
Cosmetic chemist Perry Romanowski explained that hair swells up when it’s wet, leaving it more prone to breakage and damage.
Romanowski told The Today Show: “The process of moving shampoo or conditioner around in your hair can damage the hair cuticle (the outer layer).
“When the hair dries, it doesn’t lay perfectly flat.
“So that makes hair look dull, makes it harder to comb and increases the chances of getting split hair.”
The expert added that too much washing can also cause itching and irritation of the scalp.
Experts generally agree that washing your hair every two to three days is a good amount of time.
Leaving it any longer can similarly irritate your scalp as oil build up will promote hair greasiness and dandruff production.
Romanowski recommended washing dyed hair less often to prevent it from fading.
The expert suggested using a sulphate-free formula to protect your locks and extend the life of the dye.
In terms of washing, it’s best hack is to use a small dollop of shampoo and work it into your hands before massaging it into your scalp.
Romanowski noted that our hair appreciates consistency and we don’t need to swap out our trusty shampoo just because a new product is trending on TikTok.
The cosmetic chemist commented: “Hair will not become ‘used to’ a shampoo such that it won’t work any longer.
“If you don’t use a conditioner, hair will be more difficult to comb and that could lead to more damage.
“A conditioner will also make your hair look and feel better. It is a way to prevent more damage.
“Any effect you’d see from a shampoo will be overwhelmed by the effect you’ll get from the conditioner.”