Are you washing your hair wrong?

By Samantha Van Hasselt, head of Learning Academy – Creme of Nature

Washing your hair is the foundation of any haircare routine, but many get it wrong. From better water to shampoo choice, small changes can mean the difference between dry, brittle strands and a healthy, radiant mane. Whether your hair is natural, relaxed, or in a protective style, here’s how to improve your wash day.

Overwashing vs underwashing

The frequency should match your hair type and lifestyle.

• Curly/kinky hair: every 7–10 days

• Straight/relaxed hair: every 3–5 days

• Protective hairstyles/active lifestyle: co-wash (using conditioneronly) or use a scalp refresher betweenwashes

Over-washing strips natural oils; under washing causes buildup and clogged follicles.

Using the wrong shampoo

Not all shampoos are equal. Hair prone to dryness or damage benefits from sulphate-free formulas that cleanse without stripping natural oils.

These gentle shampoos help maintain hydration, reduce irritation, and support softness and shine for a variety of hair types.

Scalding washes

Hot water feels great but damages the cuticle and dries out the scalp.

Pro tip: Wash with warm water to lift dirt and oil, then rinse with cool water to seal the cuticle and boost shine.

Ignoring the scalp

Healthy hair starts at the scalp. Massage your scalp with fingertips (not nails) for at least 60 seconds to boost circulation and loosen buildup. For a deeper clean, use a scalp massager weekly.

Overlooking the water quality

Hard water can leave mineral buildup, making hair dry, dull, and unresponsive to products. A long-term solution? Install a filtered shower head to remove minerals and chlorine. Think of it as skincare, but for your hair.